Scheduled for December 14, 2024, the event, titled ‘Connect Afrofest: Connecting Afrobeats Nextgen,’ will take place at The Hanger in Maryland, Lagos.
Organized by Connect Afrobeats, an online networking platform for global Afrobeats stakeholders, the festival will feature panel discussions in the afternoon, leading into an evening concert.
The discussions will focus on themes of empowerment, inclusivity, education, and networking with industry experts. Topics will include “From Local to Global: The Power of Branding and How Personal Branding Can Drive Global Success for Both Emerging and Established Artists” and “Afrobeats Beyond Borders: How Streaming Platforms are Bridging African Diaspora Music Cultures.”
Notable speakers include Abiodun ‘Bizzle’ Osikoya, Co-Founder and Principal Consultant at The Plug Entertainment; Dunsin Bankole, Head of Operations at WeTalkSound; Kini-Abasi Edet, Head of Operations at MBA for Africa; Anita Amangbo, Marketing Manager and CEO of Mazi Studios; Mayowa Idowu, Editor in Chief of Culture Custodian; Hamiid Wondah, Head of Publishing at The Plug Entertainment; Jane Efagwu, Artist (Moderator); Wale Adeyemi, Artiste Community Manager at Make Music Lagos; Pokyes Jan, Assistant Program Director at CIIFA LTD & MBA; George Ogala, Head of Operations at Josplay; Melissa Kariuki, Founder and CEO of Whip Music; Kemi Israel, A&R Manager at ONErpm Africa; Victor Ekpo (Moderator), Senior Legal and Business Manager at Zaeda Oracle Limited; and Azeez Fusigboye, a Canada-based promoter and PR agent.
We are excited to unite a vibrant community of artists, scholars, and professionals to enlighten enthusiasts about the rich culture of Afrobeat and its lasting impact,” stated Abdullah Abubakre, Founder and Director of ConnectAfrobeats. “Connect AfroFest transcends a mere event; it embodies the strength of community, culture, and the ability to inspire and drive positive transformation.”
Later in the evening, YKB, Ayola, Timi Martins, Bims, Oiza, Meya, Yemzzy, Dela, and numerous emerging talents are set to deliver an unforgettable night.
‘Connect Afrofest: Connecting Afrobeats Nextgen’ is organized by ConnectAfrobeats, an online networking platform for stakeholders in the Afrobeats scene. This cultural hub facilitates connections among artists, producers, songwriters, managers, indie promoters, distributors, and publishers, fostering collaboration, networking, touring, and other creative discussions.
The event is proudly sponsored and supported by VendorStack, Kooha, Music Business Academy Africa, 49th Street, Wetalksound, Culture Custodian, Make Music Lagos, Newark Digitals, HO2 Media, PR Village, Hype Media, and refreshed by Claymore whiskey, Firewater whiskey, and Redbull NG.