MLJ FDN says it will launch mentor program for emerging female artists

MLJ Foundation has announced plans to launch an accelerator program, designed to help three emerging women artists rise in their field.

This effort, according to the founder of the non-profit organization, Mpaka LongJohn, will help eliminate gender bias in the entertainment and advertising industries in Nigeria.

MLJ Foundation is a global movement committed to positive representation — and equity — for women and girls.

MLJ FDN has also connected artists and brands for music and product launches in the past. It has many talents as part of its community and is focused on music-driven influencer campaigns.

The program they’re collaborating on, in commemoration with IWD 2022 campaign; #BreakTheBias, to achieve a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, will grant three chosen artists mentorship from female music executives, live performance opportunities, and tips on how to develop and leverage social media platforms for marketing campaigns.

“While women are getting more opportunities in front of and behind the mic, we know that there is still work that needs to be done to elevate them in the industry and create an even playing field,” Mpaka, founder of the non-profit organization, revealed this on social media.

Between 2012 and 2019, women accounted for less than 22 percent of popular music artists, less than 15 percent of songwriters, and less than 3 percent of producers.

The foundation also disclosed that some veteran musicians whose are yet to be revealed will serve as mentors in the new program.