Martell Swift Academy Is Looking for Nairobi's Next Wave of Music Talent. Here Is How to Apply

If you are an emerging artist, producer, songwriter or music industry professional based in Nairobi, this is worth your full attention. Applications are now open for the first edition of Swift Academy, a pan-African talent development programme created by Martell and curated by Africa House. The deadline is 28 August 2026, and participation is completely free.

What Swift Academy Is and Why It Was Built

Swift Academy is rooted in the spirit of Maison Martell, the oldest of the great cognac houses, founded by Jean Martell in 1715 and defined for over three centuries by craft, audacity and a willingness to challenge convention. That same free spirit, symbolised by the swift, the historic emblem of the house, now extends into music and creative culture through a programme designed to invest meaningfully in Africa's emerging talent.

Africa House, the global platform connecting African creatives, entrepreneurs and cultural leaders with opportunities shaping culture worldwide, brings the curatorial intelligence and industry network to make that investment count. Built at the intersection of culture, creativity and business, Africa House creates spaces for real connection and collaboration across music, fashion, media, art and beyond. Together, Martell and Africa House have built Swift Academy as a home for the next generation of African music professionals.

What Selected Participants Will Actually Receive

Twenty-five participants will be selected for the Nairobi edition of Swift Academy. This is not a passive learning experience. Every participant receives professional tools tailored to their specific development needs, direct mentorship from industry experts, access to a network of peers and collaborators across four markets and a grant.

The mentor lineup for Nairobi is genuinely strong. Bensoul, singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, brings the perspective of an artist who has navigated the industry with both creative integrity and commercial success. 

Michael Gachiri, filmmaker and creative director, covers the visual and storytelling side of building a music career today. Anyiko Owoko, one of East Africa's most respected music publicists and curators, offers insight into how artists build presence and narrative in the market. Njerae, singer, songwriter and producer, adds the voice of an independent creative who has built her own path. Joey Akan, music journalist and cultural commentator, rounds out the group with a sharp understanding of how music intersects with media and culture at a continental level.

Beyond the mentorship, the programme includes practical workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities designed to give participants real tools rather than theory.

The Programme Does Not End at the Workshop

Following the core Swift Academy experience, participants will have access to a creative hub for an additional three weeks. That time is built for applying what has been learned, continuing to develop work and collaborating with fellow participants. The programme concludes with a showcase celebrating the progress made throughout the journey.

All in-person activities will take place in Nairobi. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements.

How to Apply

Applications are open now and close on 28 August 2026. The process is straightforward: complete the online application form at https://tally.so/r/VL74LE. There is no application fee and no participation cost. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information visit martell.com/en/swift-academy-kenya or follow along on Instagram at @martellofficial and @africahousemembersclub.

If you have been waiting for the right moment to take your music career seriously, this is a strong case for now being that moment.