POWERING THE CREATIVE ARTS INDUSTRY IN MALAWI

Next Level Academy, a renowned initiative from the United States of America , has praised Malawi for making significant strides in the creative arts industry.

The sentiments were shared by MeccaGodZilla, the team leader for Next Level Academy, during a 10-day masterclass and workshop being held in Lilongwe.

The workshop is designed to provide intensive training in Dance, Beat-making, MCing, and Street Art, along with crucial entrepreneurship and conflict transformation sessions aimed at equipping young Malawian creatives with the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive world.

Zilla, who leads the academy’s efforts in Malawi, emphasized that the purpose of the workshop is not just to share expertise in Hip Hop but to build a lasting connection with the incredible artists in the country.

“We are here not just to teach, but to learn and grow together with the talented artists of Malawi,” Zilla said. “This program is all about building bridges through the universal language of Hip Hop.”

The initiative has received strong backing from both local and international stakeholders. Amanda Van Duynhoven, Public Engagement Coordinator at the U.S. Embassy in Lilongwe, highlighted the importance of such programs in empowering young people and ensuring that they are fully equipped to contribute to the development of Malawi.

“Our goal is to ensure that youth are empowered and given the tools to become active contributors to Malawi’s growth, both through the arts and beyond,” Van Duynhoven said.

Qabaniso Malewezi, Executive Director of Kweza Arts and Presidential Advisor on Creative Arts  Industries , described the training as “timely” and said it will have a significant impact on Malawi’s youth.

Malewezi pointed out that the skills learned during this workshop will not only help young people develop their artistic talents but also guide them in turning their art into viable business ventures that can contribute to the country’s economy.

One of the workshop participants, Francis Kapanda, shared how the training has changed his approach to his craft. “This program has enhanced my skills and helped me see art as a business. It’s giving me the knowledge to move forward and succeed,” Kapanda said.