Nigerian Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage has launched the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation, an initiative designed to nurture and empower emerging African creatives through mentorship, access, and world-class music education.
Speaking at the launch event in Lagos, Savage said the foundation reflects her desire to invest in the continent’s creative future after years of building an international career. “It’s time to build at home after years of building globally,” she said.
According to the singer, the foundation will focus on equipping young talents with the skills and exposure required to succeed in the global music industry.
“For the first time ever, Berklee comes to Lagos with the Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Programme empowering Africa’s next generation of talent,” she noted.
Savage explained that although Afrobeats has achieved global recognition, the industry still requires stronger structures and access to education to sustain its growth.
“Afrobeats has captured the world’s attention, but attention alone is not enough to sustain an industry. Talent is universal, but access is not”.
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The foundation’s first major project, titled Berklee in Nigeria: Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Programme, will feature a fully funded four-day training for 100 emerging Nigerian music creators. The initiative also marks the first time the Berklee College of Music will host a programme in West Africa.
Savage emphasized that short, focused training can significantly shape young creatives. “You’d be surprised how much you can learn in four days. It gives you a taste of what’s possible and exposes you to parts of music you may not even realise you’re drawn to,” she said.
The programme will combine music theory with practical, real-world application. Participants will receive training in music production, songwriting, harmony, ear training and sound engineering, alongside sessions on music publishing, copyright and key aspects of entertainment law. The four-day training will conclude with live ensemble performances, while outstanding participants will receive sponsorship opportunities for future scholarships to study at Berklee in Boston or enroll in its online courses.
Savage described the Lagos programme as a gateway to long-term global opportunities rather than a one-off workshop. “It’s been something I’ve wanted to do for years. This is the first of many years, so even if you don’t get it now, you’ll definitely get it later,” she added.
Several entertainment figures also commended the initiative, including singer Johnny Drille, gospel artiste Precious Emmanuel, media Mogul, MO Abudu and clergyman Bolaji Idowu, who described the foundation as a significant development for Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Savage also reflected on her own journey, revealing that she once received a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music, an experience she said transformed her understanding of the music business. At the institution, she gained exposure not only to performance but also to the broader structure of the music industry, including production, sound engineering, publishing and film scoring. “That experience changed how I saw music,” she said. “It made me realise that talent alone isn’t enough. Structure, education, and exposure are what allow creatives to compete globally.” she revealed.
The event attracted a diverse audience including international entertainers, government officials, business leaders and religious figures.
Berklee College of Music, located in Boston, is the world’s largest independent college dedicated to contemporary music. The institution is widely known for its programmes in jazz and modern American music, as well as diverse genres such as rock, hip hop, reggae, and others.