Emerging South African music entrepreneurs graduate from Samro programme
50 rising stars have just graduated from a groundbreaking training programme, ready to reshape the future of music publishing.
A new wave of music entrepreneurs is ready to rewrite South Africa’s sonic story, following a transformative six-week journey that ended not with a final note, but a powerful crescendo of potential.
The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (Samro) and Music Business Lab rolled out the red carpet for 50 fresh graduates at a vibrant ceremony held at Samro Place in Johannesburg on May 23. But this was no ordinary cap-and-gown moment; it marked the rise of a new generation of music publishers armed with knowledge, vision, and ambition.
The Music Business Publisher Training Programme, backed by the University of Pretoria, serves as a real-world incubator for creatives ready to thrive in the music industry. Participants, including self-published musicians and digital distributors with one to three years of experience, aimed to master music publishing and explore new revenue streams. Industry leaders Ninel Musson of Vth Season and Beth Arendse of the SA Creative Industries Incubator, whose mentorship opened significant opportunities, guided them.
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The hunger for such growth is undeniable. Lesego Maforah, Samro’s manager for CSI and special projects, noted a 34% spike in applications compared to 2024, a clear indicator of the sector’s rising demand for structured, relevant training.
“We weren’t just inundated with numbers. The quality of applications reflected a shifting tide in how artists and aspiring publishers view their roles. They’re not waiting for change, they want to lead it,” Maforah said.
Each application underwent scrutiny by an independent panel, resulting in a handpicked cohort of 50. And if graduation day was any indication, this class is already shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with.
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Valedictorians Pilani Bubu and Kunda Mtonga gave deeply personal addresses, reflecting on a journey that challenged, inspired and connected them. From learning the nitty-gritty of publishing contracts to discovering the importance of community, the course offered more than knowledge, it built a tribe.
Delivering a keynote that resonated like a final chord in a power ballad, Samro’s general manager for member services, Nobambo Goduka, reminded the graduates of their vital place in the creative ecosystem.
“Music publishing is the silent engine behind the hits. It’s about legacy, justice, and sustainability. You’re not just keeping the lights on, you’re illuminating the future of our industry,” she said.
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The ceremony concluded with excitement for a new beginning, highlighting Samro and Music Business Lab’s dedication to education, mentorship, and market access for a sustainable future. This programme serves as a game-changer for creatives navigating the industry.
With 50 new professionals equipped with knowledge and collaboration, the future of South African music is set to be much brighter.
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