ACCES Conference sessions (2025 programme)

Independent music creators are redefining the industry, driven by a new wave of innovation that blends technology with fresh business thinking. This panel explores how forward-looking platforms and professionals are building ecosystems that support creator autonomy, sustainable revenue, and smarter rights management. Unpack cutting-edge strategies, scalable tech, and evolving industry models that are reshaping the future of independent music, on the continent and beyond, to put power back in the hands of artists.

African music is reaching global audiences like never before, but turning that success into sustainable revenue remains a challenge. This panel explores how money flows across markets, from streaming platforms to rights holders, labels, and artists, and what it takes to ensure African creators are fairly paid. Bringing together global industry voices, the discussion will highlight practical steps to strengthen Africa’s global music value chain.

he Music In Africa Foundation spotlights two of its transformative initiatives driving gender equality, skills development, and employment creation in the creative economy: the pan-African women-focused programme Gender@Work and NEFCISA (National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa).
This dynamic snapshot will showcase how both flagship initiatives bridge critical gaps and collaborate with international partners to scale impactful models for Africa’s inclusive and sustainable growth. Join the call to action!

Africa’s music industry holds immense potential to drive inclusive job creation—especially for youth and women—but unlocking this potential requires targeted investment, informed by robust data and adaptive cultural policies. Bringing together leading voices from development finance, cultural policy, and music enterprise, this panel explores how data-driven insights can guide impactful investments, shape responsive policy, and accelerate industry development and employment across the continent. 

Bridges for Music has taken African talent from township stages to the global spotlight, premiering a dedicated stage at EDC Las Vegas with artists like Uncle Waffles, Sarz, and DJ Lag. The initiative not only won international media attention but also channelled support back into education programs across Africa. Now, as the stage tours the continent, Bridges for Music is partnering with promoters and brands to spark social change and launch new opportunities. Join this inspiring 30-minute session to explore how music can bridge worlds, empower communities, and attract new investment.

South Africa’s house scene keeps moving, and 3 Step is its latest wave. In this live “show & tell” session, pioneer DJ Thakzin breaks down the genre’s foundations, demonstrates how he builds its distinctive rhythms, and shares the creative vision driving the movement. Guided by music expert Shiba Mazaza, the session offers an insider’s look at how 3 Step is shaping the future of global dance music.