Prime Highlights
- Tems launches the Leading Vibe Initiative (LVI) to empower African women in music and build leadership opportunities.
- The inaugural event in Lagos brought together 20 Nigerian women to share knowledge, gain mentorship, and strengthen their careers in the music industry.
Key Facts
- Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, rose from humble beginnings to international fame in just five years, collaborating with global stars like Beyoncé and Drake.
- LVI participants received workshops, masterclasses, and hands-on training with professional audio software, preparing them to become decision-makers and creators in the industry.
Key Background:
Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems is taking action to uplift women in Africa’s music industry. She won her second Grammy earlier this year for her single Love Me Jeje and has now launched the Leading Vibe Initiative (LVI), a platform to support female talent and build leadership in music.
Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, rose from humble beginnings to achieve international fame within just five years. She has worked with world celebrities such as Beyoncé and Drake, as well as played at key festivals, such as Coachella 2024, the half-time show at the NBA All-Star Game in 2023, and featured in the FIFA Club World Cup final this summer.
When I started gaining recognition, it motivated me to see influential women like Rihanna, Adele, and Beyoncé appreciate my music. Their encouragement created opportunities for me, and now I want to help other women access the same chances.
This month, the inaugural LVI event was held in Lagos, gathering 20 Nigerian women in the music industry to exchange insights and build opportunities for growth. The program offered workshops, masterclasses, and mentorship sessions led by industry veterans, including rapper Sasha P, vocal coach Joyce Olong, and producer Bloody Civilian. Participants also practiced on professional audio software to improve their technical skills.
“For many women, breaking through means working twice as hard to be taken seriously,” said Lola Ige, head of marketing at Sony Music West Africa. “Initiatives like this give guidance, resources, and visibility, which are crucial for growth.”
Attendees, including music producer Pearl Ehanire, left the program with more confidence and new industry connections. “Mentorship and professional tools have made me feel much more confident in my journey,” Ehanire said.
After Lagos, the initiative will expand to Nairobi and other locations. Its goal is to position African women as decision-makers and creators in the music industry. “The future of African music is female and connected,” radio host and songwriter Klaire Onyeka wrote on Instagram.
Through LVI, Tems is shaping the next generation of African artists and showing that leadership, mentorship, and collaboration can transform the music industry for women.
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