THE DIGIMILLENNIALS 100: FULL LIST OF HONOREES

The Digimillennials 100 is an annual recognition of the executives, creatives, and tastemakers whose work is helping shape the direction of the music industry. The list looks beyond visibility and celebrity to recognize the people doing the work that makes the industry move. From label executives and A&Rs to managers, marketers, strategists, publishers, DJs, curators, media personalities, creative directors, entrepreneurs, and other industry builders, these are individuals whose decisions, ideas, relationships, and innovations have contributed to the growth and evolution of music and its surrounding culture.

It considers the people creating opportunities for artists, developing new business models, building companies and communities, introducing new sounds and voices, expanding audiences, strengthening the infrastructure of the industry, and finding new ways for African music and its culture to travel. Rather than simply celebrating popularity, the list considers impact, innovation, influence, consistency, cultural contribution, career development, business growth, and the ability to shape what comes next. It is a snapshot of the people whose work, across different corners of the ecosystem, is helping define the present and build the future of music.

These are 100 of the people helping define where the music industry goes next:

Inioluwa Baderinwa — Manager to FOLA

Inioluwa Baderinwa is the manager behind FOLA’s growing career, helping guide the artist’s development from emerging talent to one of Nigeria’s increasingly prominent new voices. Through career strategy, partnerships, and artist development, Baderinwa has played an important role in shaping FOLA’s trajectory and expanding his reach.

Asa Asika — Manager to Davido

Asa Asika is a veteran music executive and talent manager best known for his long-standing role in shaping Davido’s career. As one of the key figures behind Davido’s global expansion, Asika has helped navigate major partnerships, international opportunities, and the business of building one of Africa’s most recognisable music careers.

Alexa Rae Perkins — Manager to Asake

Alexa Rae Perkins is a music executive and talent manager who has played a key role in managing Asake’s rapid ascent. Working across career strategy, international opportunities, and partnerships, Perkins has helped support the expansion of Asake’s music and brand from Nigeria into a global audience.

Beverly Charles & Okafor Chidera — Co-Managers of Mavo

Beverly Charles and Okafor Chidera jointly manage Mavo, helping shape the young artist’s career as he establishes himself within Nigeria’s evolving music landscape. Their work spans artist development, strategy, partnerships, and positioning, supporting Mavo’s growth beyond individual releases into a broader artistic identity.

Elizabeth Sobowale — Manager to Adekunle Gold

Elizabeth Sobowale is a music executive and talent manager who has played a significant role in the development of Adekunle Gold’s career. Her work encompasses career strategy, partnerships, and long-term artist development, helping position him as an artist with both commercial reach and a distinct creative identity.

Oluwamayomikun Braithwaite — Talent Manager to Zaylevelten

Oluwamayomikun Braithwaite is the talent manager guiding Zaylevelten’s emerging career. Through artist development, strategic planning, and industry relationships, Braithwaite is helping build the foundation for Zaylevelten’s growth within Nigeria’s next generation of music talent.

Elochukwu Ububa & Shay Royale — Co-Managers of Victony

Elochukwu Ububa and Shay Royale are the co-managers behind Victony’s career, helping navigate the artist’s evolution from just another mainstream act to an increasingly global Nigerian act. Their work spans career strategy, partnerships, artist development, and international expansion, supporting Victony’s growth both creatively and commercially.

Chioma Odom — Talent Manager to NO 11

Chioma Odom is a talent manager working closely with NO 11 to develop and shape the artist’s career. Her work focuses on strategic direction, artist development, and building the relationships and opportunities necessary to establish a sustainable presence within the music industry.

Rima Tahini — Director of A&R, Mavin Records

Rima Tahini is the Director of A&R at Mavin Records, where she plays a central role in identifying, developing, and shaping the label’s talent. Her work sits at the intersection of artist development, repertoire, strategy, and creative direction, contributing to Mavin’s continued influence on Nigeria’s contemporary music landscape.

Osamudiamen “Vaedar” Edward — Senior A&R Manager, Mavin Global

Osamudiamen “Vaedar” Edward is a Senior A&R Manager at Mavin Global, where he contributes to talent discovery, artist development, and the creative direction of the label’s roster. His work places him at the forefront of identifying new voices and helping translate creative potential into sustainable careers within one of Africa’s leading music companies.

Morin — Talent Manager to Blaqbonez

Morin is the talent manager behind Blaqbonez, helping guide the rapper’s career through its different phases of growth and reinvention. From strategic positioning and partnerships to artist development, Morin has been instrumental in building the infrastructure around Blaqbonez’s distinctive identity and commercial trajectory.

Muyiwa Awoniyi & Wale Davies — Managers to Tems

Muyiwa Awoniyi and Wale Davies are the management team behind Tems, helping guide one of Africa’s most internationally recognised artists. Their work spans career strategy, creative direction, partnerships, and global expansion, supporting Tems’ evolution from Nigerian breakout artist to a major force in contemporary global music.

Theresa Ohemaa — Manager to Moliy

Theresa Ohemaa is the manager behind Ghanaian artist Moliy, helping shape her career across music, culture, and international markets. Her work focuses on artist development, strategic positioning, and building opportunities that allow Moliy’s distinctive sound and identity to reach wider audiences.

Manlikescoop — A&R & Talent Manager

Manlikescoop is an A&R and talent manager whose ear for emerging talent and commercially resonant records has made him a notable figure in Nigeria’s contemporary music ecosystem. He has been involved in A&R work on records including “Like That Girl” by Darkoo and Asake, Tiwa Savage’s “Energy,” Mavo and Wande Coal’s “Raleigh,” while also working with emerging artists such as Esoterica. His work reflects an ability to identify promising talent and records at an early stage and help move them towards wider audiences.

Samuel Korie — Manager to Magicsticks

Samuel Korie is the manager behind Magicsticks, helping guide the producer and songwriter’s career as his influence continues to extend across Nigeria’s contemporary music scene. His work spans career strategy, partnerships, and positioning, supporting Magicsticks’ growth as one of the producers shaping the sound of modern Afrobeats.

Excel Joab — Talent Manager & A&R

Excel Joab is a talent manager and A&R executive focused on developing emerging voices within Nigeria’s gospel music scene. His work combines artist development, career strategy, and A&R, with a notable role in the breakout of Greatman Takit. By identifying talent and creating pathways for artists to grow, Joab contributes to the continued evolution of contemporary gospel music.

Bose Ogulu — Talent Manager to Burna Boy

Bose Ogulu is a music executive and talent manager who has played a defining role in the development and global expansion of Burna Boy’s career. Beyond management, her work spans business strategy, brand building, partnerships, and creative direction, helping position Burna Boy as one of the most internationally prominent artists to emerge from Africa.

Sean Okeke — Talent Manager to Rema

Sean Okeke is a talent manager who works closely with Rema, contributing to the strategy and development behind the artist’s career. His work spans career management, partnerships, and positioning, supporting Rema’s continued growth from Nigerian breakout star to an increasingly global Afrobeats figure.

Jada Pollock — Manager to Wizkid

Jada Pollock is a music executive and talent manager who has played a significant role in Wizkid’s international career. Through management, strategic partnerships, and global business development, Pollock has helped navigate Wizkid’s evolution into one of Africa’s most internationally established artists.

Triumph Grandeur — Senior A&R, ONErpm

Triumph Grandeur is a Senior A&R at ONErpm, working at the intersection of talent discovery, artist development, and music strategy. Through his work identifying and developing emerging talent, Grandeur contributes to the pipeline of artists and projects shaping the next phase of Africa’s music industry.

Kevin Asaju — A&R & Co-Founder, More Clues

Kevin Asaju is an A&R and Co-Founder of More Clues, a music distribution company focused on supporting emerging artists and helping their music reach wider audiences. More Clues has been instrumental in the breakout of “Daju” by Faith Martins, positioning Asaju at the intersection of talent discovery, distribution, and artist development. His work reflects the growing role of independent music companies in creating pathways for emerging African artists to break through.

Anthony Egwu — Manager to Lojay

Anthony Egwu is the manager behind Lojay, helping guide the singer and songwriter’s career through its continued evolution. His work spans artist development, career strategy, partnerships, and positioning, supporting Lojay’s growth as one of the distinctive voices emerging from Nigeria’s contemporary music scene.

Aniko — Co-Founder, Group Therapy

Aniko is a DJ and cultural figure closely connected to Nigeria’s emerging rave movement. As a co-founder of Group Therapy, Aniko has helped create spaces that bring together alternative sounds, new audiences, and a generation of young creatives shaping the country’s evolving nightlife culture.

Uncles of TO — Founder, Afrobeats and Friends

Uncles of TO is a Canadian-based collective and tastemaker contributing to the growth and visibility of African music and culture within Toronto’s vibrant music ecosystem. Their work connects African sounds with diaspora audiences while creating platforms for discovery, community, and cultural exchange.

 Afrique Like Me — International DJs

Afriquelikeme are cultural tastemakers championing African music and culture within the diaspora. Through curation and community, the platform contributes to connecting African sounds with audiences beyond the continent.

WeAreAllChemicals — DJ & Founder, Dencity

WeAreAllChemicals is a DJ and cultural organiser whose work extends beyond the dance floor. As the founder of Dencity, a community created to connect, empower, and increase visibility for female skateboarders in Nigeria, she is building a space at the intersection of music, youth culture, sport, and community. Her work reflects a broader approach to DJ culture—using music and creative spaces as tools for connection and cultural participation.

Dope Ceasar — International DJ

Dope Ceasar is a DJ recognised for his technical approach to the craft and his ability to move across different sounds and audiences. His presence within Nigeria’s DJ culture reflects the growing importance of DJs not only as performers, but as curators and tastemakers.

Skyla Tylaa — International DJ

Skyla Tylaa is a DJ whose work extends beyond the typical club circuit through touring and international performances. Her growing presence across different stages reflects the increasing global movement of House, African music and contemporary DJ culture.

Tobi Peter — Founder, Gospel House

Tobi Peter is the founder of Gospel House, a platform dedicated to bringing gospel music and house music culture into conversation. Through the platform, he has contributed to creating a distinct community around gospel-infused dance music and expanding the possibilities of contemporary gospel expression.

Axara — Fast Rising DJ

Axara is a fast-rising DJ building a name within Nigeria’s evolving nightlife and music scene. Through energetic sets and contemporary sound selection, Axara represents a new generation of DJs helping shape where the country’s club culture is headed.

Vibemaster — Canada

Vibemaster is a Canada-based DJ and tastemaker contributing to the African music and diaspora scene. Through performance and curation, Vibemaster helps connect African sounds with audiences across Canada and the wider diaspora.

AZZIONTHEBEAT — DJ & Producer

AZZIONTHEBEAT is a DJ and producer closely associated with the evolving Mara sound and its growing audience. Through his work behind the decks and in music production, he has become part of the creative movement pushing the sound into new spaces.

DJ Maphorisa — DJ & Producer

DJ Maphorisa is a South African DJ, producer, and music executive whose influence stretches across multiple generations of African popular music. From Amapiano to Afrobeats and beyond, his work as a producer, collaborator, and curator has made him a significant figure in the continent’s contemporary music ecosystem.

Black Coffee — International DJ & Producer

Black Coffee is a South African DJ and producer whose career has played a major role in bringing African electronic music to international audiences. His extensive global touring, acclaimed productions, and influence on the international dance-music landscape have established him as one of Africa’s most prominent electronic music exports.

JAZZWRLD & THUKUTHELA — International DJs, Artists and Producer 

JAZZWRLD and THUKUTHELA have built a reputation around consistency, curation, and their contribution to Amapiano, House and South African music culture. Their work behind the decks and in the studio reflects a commitment to developing a distinct sonic identity while keeping pace with the constantly changing nightlife landscape.

Hangaëlle — International Dj

Hangaëlle is a Canada-based DJ and tastemaker contributing to the country’s increasingly diverse electronic and African music ecosystem. Her work as a selector and performer helps create connections between emerging sounds, artists, and audiences within the diaspora.

DJ Mendosa — International Dj

DJ Mendosa is a Canada-based DJ and tastemaker contributing to the growth of African music within the Canadian diaspora. Through performance and curation, Mendosa helps create spaces where African sounds can intersect with the broader Canadian music and nightlife scene.

Randell Adjei — Founder & Creative Director, R.I.S.E. Edutainment

Randell Adjei is a Ghanaian-Canadian poet, author, community builder, and the Founder and Creative Director of R.I.S.E. Edutainment, a platform dedicated to creating spaces for young people to express themselves through poetry, music, and the arts. Through his work, Adjei has become an important voice in Canada’s cultural landscape, using creative expression and community engagement as vehicles for social impact and youth empowerment.

Imani Walker— Social Editor, Complex Canada

Imani Walker is a media and culture professional serving as Social Editor at Complex Canada. Through editorial strategy, digital storytelling, and social media, she contributes to how music, fashion, and contemporary culture are presented to Canadian audiences, helping shape the digital conversation around the country’s evolving creative landscape.

David “Click” Cox — Music Industry Expert & Co-Founder, Breaking Down Racial Barriers Initiative

David “Click” Cox is a music industry professional and advocate whose work extends across artist development, industry education, and equity. As Co-Founder of the Breaking Down Racial Barriers Initiative, Cox has contributed to efforts focused on addressing systemic barriers within the music business and creating greater opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Gavin Sheppard — Co-Founder & Board Member, The Remix Project

Gavin Sheppard is a cultural entrepreneur and community leader best known as a Co-Founder and Board Member of The Remix Project, a Canadian organisation dedicated to providing young people with opportunities in music, media, and the creative industries. His work has contributed to developing pathways for emerging talent while strengthening the infrastructure supporting Canada’s next generation of creative professionals.

Frank Vinatra — Culture Curator & Media Personality

Frank Vinatra is a culture curator and media personality whose work sits at the intersection of music, entertainment, and contemporary culture. Through media, curation, and cultural commentary, Vinatra has contributed to the visibility and conversation surrounding African and diasporic culture within Canada’s broader creative ecosystem.

Keziah Myers — Executive Director, ADVANCE Music Canada

Keziah Myers is the Executive Director of ADVANCE Music Canada, an organisation dedicated to advancing Black music and professionals within Canada’s music industry. Through advocacy, professional development, industry programming, and strategic leadership, Myers has become a significant figure in efforts to create greater representation and opportunity for Black music professionals across the Canadian ecosystem.

Vivian Barclay — Founder, Hot House Songs

Vivian Barclay is a music executive and the Founder of Hot House Songs, a leading music publishing company. With extensive experience across publishing, rights management, and the business of music, Barclay has contributed to the development and commercialisation of music catalogues while supporting songwriters and creators within the Canadian and international music industries.

Colin Gayle — Co-Founder & CEO, Africa Creative Agency

Colin Gayle is the Co-Founder and CEO of Africa Creative Agency, where he works at the intersection of music, culture, brands, and African-focused creative strategy. His work has helped create commercial and cultural connections between African talent and international audiences, contributing to the growing global business around African creativity.

Yvette Gayle — Co-Founder & COO, Africa Creative Agency

Yvette Gayle is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Africa Creative Agency, helping build the operational and strategic infrastructure behind the company’s work across African music and culture. Her leadership contributes to connecting African talent and cultural properties with global brands, audiences, and commercial opportunities.

4Korners — Founder, Of The World

4Korners is a Toronto-based DJ, producer, broadcaster, and cultural tastemaker who has built a longstanding presence within Canada’s music ecosystem. As the Founder of Of The World, he has continued to create platforms that connect global sounds, artists, and audiences, reflecting Toronto’s position as one of the world’s most culturally diverse music cities.

Trung Hoang — Co-Founder & Artist Manager, Quiet As Kept

Trung Hoang is a music executive, artist manager, and Co-Founder of Quiet As Kept. His work focuses on artist development, management, and strategic career building, contributing to the growth of emerging talent while operating within Canada’s increasingly interconnected music and creative ecosystem.

Godwin Tom — Founder, Creative Business Academy Africa

Godwin Tom is the Founder of Creative Business Academy Africa, an institution focused on developing the business knowledge and professional capacity of Africa’s creative workforce. Through education, mentorship, and industry-focused programmes, Tom has contributed to building a more commercially informed generation of creative professionals across the continent.

Peter Tega Oghenejobo — President & COO, Mavin Records

Peter Tega Oghenejobo is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Mavin Records, where he plays a central role in the label’s business strategy, operations, and international expansion. A key figure in the development of one of Africa’s leading music companies, Oghenejobo has helped build the structures that support Mavin’s artists, partnerships, and global ambitions.

Abuchi Peter Ugwu — CEO, Chocolate City Music

Abuchi Peter Ugwu is the Chief Executive Officer of Chocolate City Music, one of Nigeria’s most established independent music companies. His leadership spans artist development, business strategy, partnerships, and organisational growth, helping guide the company through an increasingly global and digitally driven music industry.

Bizzle Osikoya — Co-Founder, The Plug

Bizzle Osikoya is a music executive and Co-Founder of The Plug, a company operating across artist management, entertainment, and music business. Through his work, Bizzle has been involved in developing artists, building strategic partnerships, and creating commercial opportunities within Nigeria’s expanding music ecosystem.

Ayo Animashaun — Founder, HipTV & The Headies

Ayo Animashaun is a media entrepreneur and the Founder of HipTV and The Headies. Through his work in music television, journalism, events, and awards, Animashaun has played a significant role in documenting, promoting, institutionalising and awarding Nigeria’s contemporary music culture.

Tunde Balogun — Co-Founder & CEO, LVRN

Tunde Balogun is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LVRN, the Atlanta-based entertainment company known for developing and managing artists across music and culture. His leadership has helped establish LVRN as an influential independent company while creating pathways for artists to build careers across an increasingly global music industry.

 Osagie Osarenkhoe — Director of African Operations, ONErpm

Osagie Osarenkhoe is the Director of African Operations at ONErpm, where she oversees the company’s activities across one of the world’s fastest-growing music markets. Her work spans digital distribution, artist services, partnerships, and market development, contributing to the infrastructure connecting African music with global audiences.

Eze Ezegozie Jr — VP, Strategy & Market Development, EMPIRE Africa

Eze Ezegozie Jr is Vice President of Strategy and Market Development at EMPIRE Africa, where he works on the company’s growth and positioning across the continent. His role sits at the intersection of strategy, market expansion, partnerships, and the development of opportunities for African artists within the global music economy.

Lanre Masha — Director of West Africa, The Orchard

Lanre Masha is the Director of West Africa at The Orchard, overseeing the company’s operations and market development across one of Africa’s most important music territories. His work sits at the intersection of digital distribution, artist services, label partnerships, and the global commercialisation of African music.

Mobolaji Kareem — Regional Head, EMPIRE West Africa

Mobolaji Kareem is the Regional Head of EMPIRE for West Africa, working across artist development, label services, partnerships, and regional strategy. His role contributes to connecting West African artists and music businesses with the infrastructure, resources, and international opportunities of a global music company.

 

Ibukun “Aibee” Abidoye — EVP, Music, Chocolate City Music

Ibukun “Aibee” Abidoye is a music business executive and legal expert serving as Executive Vice President of Music at Chocolate City Music. With expertise spanning licensing, distribution, publishing, and artist rights, she has helped strengthen the label’s commercial operations and international partnerships, including its landmark partnership with Warner Music Group. Her work reflects the importance of legal and business expertise in building sustainable African music enterprises.

Charlotte Bwana & Wale Ozolua — Audiomack

Charlotte Bwana and Wale Ozolua have contributed to Audiomack’s growth as a platform for music discovery and artist development across African markets. Bwana’s work in marketing and brand strategy has helped expand the platform’s visibility through strategic partnerships and promotional initiatives, while Ozolua has played an important role in its African content and artist services operations. Together, their work highlights the influence of streaming platforms in connecting African artists with audiences and creating new opportunities for music discovery. 

Idara Idemeko & Dowe Biyere — Label Managers, The Orchard

Idara Idemeko and Dowe Biyere work in label management at The Orchard, a global music distribution and artist services company. Their roles sit within the operational infrastructure that supports labels and independent music businesses, helping coordinate distribution, release delivery, and the commercial processes required to bring music to market. Their work represents the often-unseen expertise connecting African music businesses to international distribution networks.

Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy & Victor Okpala — Spotify

Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Spotify, and Victor Okpala, who works in Artist and Label Partnerships for West Africa, represent two important dimensions of the streaming ecosystem: regional leadership and direct engagement with music creators and rights holders. Their work contributes to Spotify’s relationships with African artists, labels, and industry stakeholders, supporting the development of the region’s digital music economy and the international reach of its music.

Taponeswa Mavunga — Director of Africa, Sony Music UK

Taponeswa Mavunga is a music executive whose work at Sony Music UK focuses on African music and its position within the international industry. Through artist and market development, strategic partnerships, and cross-border collaboration, she has contributed to creating greater visibility for African talent within global music structures. Her work reflects the importance of executives who understand both the continent’s creative landscape and the commercial opportunities available internationally.

Tim Matongo — Director of Marketing, Universal Music Canada

Tim Matongo is a music marketing executive serving as Director of Marketing at Universal Music Canada. His work centres on the development and execution of marketing strategies that connect artists and their music with audiences. Operating within a major-label environment, Matongo’s role reflects the importance of audience development, campaign strategy, and market positioning in building sustainable artist careers.

Olukorede “Kay” Ikazoboh & Motolani Alake — Virgin Music Nigeria

Olukorede “Kay” Ikazoboh, Managing Director of Virgin Music Nigeria, and Motolani Alake, Label Manager at the company, contribute to the development of the ecosystem for Nigerian artists and music businesses. Their work spans leadership, release strategy, distribution, and artist and label support, helping connect local music operations with the resources and networks of an international music company.

Chidinma “Didi” Maduforo — General Manager, ONErpm

Chidinma “Didi” Maduforo is a music business executive serving as General Manager at ONErpm. Her work sits at the intersection of music distribution, business operations, and artist and label services, supporting the systems through which music is released, marketed, and monetised. Her role reflects the growing importance of distribution companies in helping African music businesses access global platforms and develop their commercial reach.

Titilope Adesanya — VP, Operations, EMPIRE Africa

Titilope Adesanya is a music executive serving as Vice President of Operations at EMPIRE Africa. Her role focuses on the operational structures and processes that support the company’s activities across African markets. By working within the infrastructure behind artist services, label partnerships, and regional execution, Adesanya contributes to the systems that connect African music businesses with a global distribution and label-services network.

Damilola “Dapper” Akinwunmi — Founder, Dapper Group

Damilola “Dapper” Akinwunmi is an entrepreneur and music executive who founded Dapper Group, a company operating across music, entertainment, and talent development. His work reflects an approach to the music business that extends beyond individual releases into artist management, commercial partnerships, and the development of broader entertainment ventures. Through his entrepreneurial activities, Akinwunmi represents the growing influence of locally built businesses within Nigeria’s music economy.

Tochi Igboko & Ayomide Taj — Label Managers, WeTalkSound

Tochi Igboko and Ayomide Taj serve as Label Managers at WeTalkSound, a music and culture platform with interests extending into artist development and the music business. Their work contributes to the coordination of releases, label operations, and the development of projects within an ecosystem that connects music discovery with industry opportunities. Their roles reflect the evolution of culture-led platforms into more active participants in the music value chain.

Ikenna Nwagboso — Co-Founder, Highway 89 Entertainment

Ikenna Nwagboso is a music entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Hi-Way 89 Entertainment. His work centres on building opportunities within the music and entertainment ecosystem through business development, creative partnerships, and talent-focused initiatives. As an industry builder, Nwagboso represents the entrepreneurial effort required to establish platforms and businesses that can support the next generation of music professionals.

Sipho Dlamini — CEO, Universal Music South Africa

Sipho Dlamini is a music executive who has led Universal Music South Africa, overseeing the company’s strategic direction and operations within one of the continent’s most established music markets. His work spans artist development, commercial strategy, partnerships, and the relationship between local talent and international music infrastructure. His leadership represents the role major-label executives play in developing regional markets while connecting artists to global opportunities.

Fusi Hype — Label Services & Music Marketing

Fusi Hype works across label services, music marketing, and event-based initiatives, with a focus on expanding the reach of Afrobeats and African music in Canada. His experience includes managing Taene and supporting cross-cultural initiatives that connect African music with Canadian audiences. His work highlights the role of diaspora-based industry professionals in building audiences, facilitating cultural exchange, and creating pathways for African music beyond the continent.

Olusola Adenusi — Distribution Manager, Mavin Records

Olusola Adenusi is the Distribution Manager at Mavin Records, working within the systems responsible for delivering the label’s music to digital platforms and audiences. Distribution is a critical component of the modern music business, connecting recorded music with streaming services, supporting release execution, and helping ensure that commercial opportunities can be realised across markets. Adenusi’s role represents the operational expertise behind the delivery of music from one of Africa’s prominent record labels.

Dolly Makhoul — Managing Director, Believe Music

Dolly Makhoul is a music executive serving as Managing Director at Believe Music. Her work within the digital music landscape centres on business leadership, distribution, and the development of opportunities for artists and labels. Through its digital-first model, Believe operates within an increasingly important segment of the global music industry, where independent artists and businesses seek the infrastructure and expertise needed to expand their audiences and revenue opportunities.

Adam Tiran — General Manager, Africori

Adam Tiran is a music business executive associated with Africori, a company focused on digital music distribution, rights management, and artist and label services across African markets. As General Manager, his role encompasses the business operations that support the company’s work connecting African music with digital platforms and international opportunities. His position reflects the importance of distribution and rights infrastructure in the continued growth of African music globally.

Uzor Daniel — Director, A&R & Operations, Sony Music Publishing

Uzor Daniel is a music publishing executive serving as Director of A&R and Operations at Sony Music Publishing. His work brings together creative talent identification and the operational side of music publishing, where songwriters’ works are developed, administered, and commercially exploited. By operating at the intersection of creativity and rights management, Daniel represents the professionals responsible for strengthening the business and infrastructure behind songwriting.

David Edogame — Head of Music & Label Services, The Plug

David Edogame is a music executive serving as Head of Music and Label Services at The Plug. His work centres on supporting music projects and label operations, connecting creative output with the commercial and distribution structures required to reach audiences. Through label services and music business strategy, Edogame contributes to the broader infrastructure that helps artists and music companies develop their releases and expand their reach.

Oluwamayowa Idowu & Aedan Asika — Co-Founders, Culture Custodian

Oluwamayowa Idowu, Aedan Asika, and Tito Amuchienwa are the co-founders of Culture Custodian, a Nigerian media platform documenting and interpreting contemporary African music, culture, and society. Through editorial coverage, interviews, and cultural commentary, they have helped establish a platform that engages with the people, ideas, and movements shaping Africa’s creative landscape. Their work reflects the importance of independent cultural media in preserving context and advancing conversations beyond the music itself.

Dolapo Amusat & Dunsin Bankole — Co-Founders, WeTalkSound

Dolapo Amusat and Dunsin Bankole are the co-founders of WeTalkSound, a Nigerian music and culture platform that has grown beyond media coverage into artist development and music industry engagement. Through their work, they have helped build a platform connecting music discovery, cultural commentary, and opportunities for artists to develop their careers. Their contribution reflects the potential of independent culture-led platforms to become active participants in the growth and infrastructure of the African music industry.

Gracey Mae — CEO, Mae Management Consultancy Group

Gracey Mae is the Chief Executive Officer of Mae Management Consultancy Group, where her work centres on management, strategy, and professional development. Through her leadership, she contributes to the development of structures and opportunities that help creatives and businesses navigate the demands of an increasingly interconnected entertainment industry.

Joey Akan — Award-Winning Journalist & Founder, Afrobeats Intelligence

Joey Akan is an award-winning music journalist and the founder of Afrobeats Intelligence, a platform dedicated to documenting the people, decisions, and business dynamics behind African music. Through interviews, investigative reporting, and industry analysis, Akan has contributed to a deeper understanding of Afrobeats’ development, offering insight into the commercial and cultural forces shaping its global expansion.

Adeayo Adebiyi — Culture Curator & Editor-in-Chief, Pulse Nigeria

Adeayo Adebiyi is a culture journalist and editor serving as Editor-in-Chief at Pulse Nigeria. His work spans music journalism, editorial strategy, and cultural commentary, contributing to how Nigerian entertainment and contemporary African culture are covered and understood. Through editorial leadership, Adebiyi helps shape conversations around artists, industry developments, and the broader cultural movements influencing audiences.

Best Amakhian — Founder, Glitch Africa

Best Amakhian is the founder of Glitch Africa, a media and entertainment platform operating across music, culture, and live performance. Through artist interviews, live sessions, and original content, Amakhian has helped create spaces for African artists to present their work and personalities to wider audiences. His work reflects the growing role of digital-first media platforms in documenting talent and developing new forms of music discovery.

Tobi Bankole & Emmanuel Oke — Co-Founders, Notesphere

Tobi Bankole and Emmanuel Oke are the co-founders of Notesphere, a platform built around music, creative expression, and cultural engagement. Through their work, they contribute to the development of spaces for culture and creative discovery shaping contemporary culture. Their entrepreneurial approach reflects the continued emergence of independent platforms seeking to influence how audiences engage with creativity.

Korty EO — Award-Winning Filmmaker & Creator

Korty is an award-winning filmmaker and digital creator known for her distinctive approach to visual storytelling and intimate conversations. Through interviews, documentaries, and personality-led content, she has developed a recognisable style that captures the perspectives and experiences of people across music, entertainment, and contemporary culture. Her work demonstrates the growing influence of independent creators in shaping how African stories are told and consumed.

Ore Sami — Founder, Sample Chief

Ore Sami is the founder of Sample Chief, a platform exploring music through sampling, musical references, and the connections between records. By drawing attention to the relationships between sounds, artists, and musical traditions, the platform encourages audiences to engage with music beyond its immediate appeal. This approach contributes to a wider appreciation of musical history, production, and the creative processes behind contemporary records.

Emman Owoniyi & Belema — Co-Hosts, Afrobeats To The World

Emman Awoniyi and Belema are the co-hosts of Afrobeats To The World, a platform dedicated to conversations about African music and its international development. Through commentary and discussions around artists, releases, and industry movements, they contribute to the ongoing documentation of Afrobeats’ expansion and its relationship with global audiences. Their work reflects the importance of independent voices in interpreting the genre’s evolution.

Ayomide Tayo — Award-Winning Journalist & Culture Curator

Ayomide Tayo is an award-winning journalist and culture curator whose work has contributed to the documentation and interpretation of Nigerian music and entertainment. Through reporting, interviews, and cultural analysis, Tayo has helped provide context for the artists, trends, and industry developments shaping contemporary African music. His work underscores the role of music journalism in building a historical record of a rapidly evolving industry.

Collins Bajayi — Culture Curator & Co-Host, Fresh Off the Boat

Collins Bajayi is a culture curator and co-host of Fresh Off the Boat, contributing to conversations around music, entertainment, and contemporary culture. Through commentary and audience engagement, he helps interpret emerging trends and the personalities influencing the cultural landscape. His work represents the growing relevance of conversational media in shaping how audiences discover and discuss music.

Elsie Ahachi — Creative & Music Curator, Elsie Not Elise

Elsie Ahachi is a creative and music curator known through Elsie Not Elise, where her work centres on music discovery, creative expression, and commentary. Through curation and digital storytelling, she contributes to the visibility of artists and sounds while creating a distinct perspective on contemporary music culture. Her work highlights the influence of independent curators in shaping audience taste and introducing listeners to new music.

Ada’s Room — Creator & Host, Ada’s Room

Ada’s Room is a creator-led platform hosted by Ada, providing space for conversations and storytelling around music, entertainment, and contemporary culture. Through its host-led format, the platform creates opportunities to explore artists’ perspectives and experiences beyond their public personas. Its work reflects the value of personality-driven media in building deeper connections between artists, audiences, and the stories behind the music.

Duke Osita Ugeh — Founder, Duke Concept

Duke Osita Ugeh is an entertainment entrepreneur and the founder of Duke Concept, a live entertainment and touring company connecting African and Caribbean artists with audiences across North America and beyond. Since launching his promotions venture, Duke has developed a portfolio spanning concerts, artist tours, and large-scale live experiences. His work has contributed to the infrastructure supporting African artists’ international touring ambitions and the growth of Afrobeats in diaspora markets.

Tani Deji — DJ & Founder, Sunday Service

Tani Deji is a DJ and the founder of Sunday Service, a music and nightlife platform built around shared listening experiences and community. Through DJ culture and event curation, Deji contributes to the spaces where audiences discover music, connect through sound, and participate in the evolving nightlife scene. Sunday Service reflects the role of independent event organisers in building communities around music beyond traditional concert settings.

Tobi Mohammed — Founder, Mainland Block Party & Managing Partner, The Plug

Tobi Mohammed is an entertainment entrepreneur and the founder of Mainland Block Party, a Lagos-born event platform created to challenge perceptions of mainland Lagos and establish a cultural destination of its own. Through music, community, and live experiences, the platform has helped bring audiences together around a shared sense of place and identity. As Managing Partner at The Plug, Mohammed also works across the wider entertainment business, contributing to the development of talent, partnerships, and cultural experiences.

Grace Ladoja — Founder, Homecoming Festival

Grace Ladoja is a British-Nigerian music executive and cultural entrepreneur whose work connects African creativity with global audiences. She founded Homecoming in 2018 as a platform bringing together music, fashion, art, sport, and youth culture, creating opportunities for collaboration between creatives on the continent and in the diaspora. Her work has helped establish Homecoming as a cultural meeting point for African and international talent, with Lagos at the centre of its vision.

Cecil Hammond & Keke Hammond — CEO & COO, Flytime Promotions

Cecil Hammond and Keke Hammond are entertainment executives associated with Flytime Promotions, a Nigerian live entertainment company behind major concerts and music events. Cecil Hammond founded the company and helped establish events such as Rhythm Unplugged and Flytime Fest as important fixtures in Nigeria’s live entertainment calendar. Together, their leadership represents the operational and commercial work required to produce large-scale experiences, connect artists with audiences, and sustain a concert culture in the country.

Habibi Abdul — Founder & CEO, AfroFuture Festival

AfroFuture is a cultural festival and experiential platform celebrating African creativity through music, fashion, art, food, and community engagement. Its programming connects African artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives with audiences across the continent and diaspora, positioning the festival as a meeting point for cultural exchange and international collaboration. Through its wider activities, AfroFuture has expanded beyond performances to promote African creative talent and build connections between culture, business, and community.

Uchefunah ‘Morse’ Tochukwu — Head of Production, WeTalkSound; Insert Nights & Cafe Riddim

Uchefunah Tochukwu, professionally known as Morse, is a multidisciplinary creative producer whose work spans music videos, documentaries, advertising, and live experiences. As Head of Production at WeTalkSound, he helps translate creative concepts into executed projects, working across the logistics, budgets, teams, and production processes that bring ideas to life. Through Insert Nights and Cafe Riddim, Morse also contributes to Lagos’ live culture, building recurring experiences that connect music, creativity, and community.

Camillo Doregos — Co-Founder, DC Talent Agency

Camillo Doregos is a co-founder of DC Talent Agency, an international entertainment agency representing African creatives across music, acting, modelling, and digital culture. The agency focuses on talent representation, bookings, management, and connecting its roster with opportunities across international markets. Through this work, Doregos contributes to the infrastructure helping African talent access wider audiences and develop careers across borders.

Adesegun ‘SMADE’ Adeosun — Co-Founder, AfroNation

Adesegun ‘SMADE’ Adeosun is an entertainment entrepreneur and co-founder of AfroNation, a festival brand that has become a major platform for African and diasporic music on the international live circuit. Through festival production and artist programming, AfroNation brings Afrobeats and related sounds to audiences across markets, creating opportunities for artists to perform on global stages. Adeosun’s work reflects the growing role of large-scale live entertainment in expanding the international reach of African music.

Nelson Ofoto — Founder & CEO, Afro Switch

Nelson Ofoto is the founder and CEO of Afro Switch, a music and cultural platform focused on connecting the African diaspora through live entertainment, festivals, concerts, and artist collaborations. Through its events and cultural programming, Afro Switch brings together emerging and established talent, audiences, and brand partners across genres including Afrobeats, R&B, hip-hop, and Amapiano. The platform reflects a wider effort to create spaces where African and diasporic music can reach new communities and build lasting cultural connections.