For over two decades, Smade has been a central architect of the Afrobeats global movement. He built the stages. He created the moments. Now, he is passing the baton. His newly announced Smade NextGen Academy is more than a program. It is a mission. A mission to mentor, not just manage. To open doors, not guard them.
This move is crucial for the next phase of Afrobeats. The sound has conquered the world. The next step is securing its future. That requires investing in the people behind the scenes.
From Gatekeepers to Guideposts: A Shift in Mentorship
The entertainment industry is often seen as a closed circuit. Access is limited. Opportunities are hoarded. True legacy, however, is not built by being a gatekeeper. It is built by being a guide. Smade’s academy represents a powerful shift. It moves from simply celebrating success to systematically sharing it.
This philosophy of ‘each one, teach one’ is deeply Nigerian. It is how we grow. When established figures share knowledge, they don’t lose power. They multiply it. They ensure the culture thrives long after they are gone.
The Clarence Peters Blueprint: Mentorship That Works
We have seen this model work brilliantly. Look at Clarence Peters. The iconic director is a legend in his own right. But his true impact is seen in his protégés. He took in talented young minds like Unlimited LA and Director Pink. He gave them hands-on experience. He provided direct mentorship.
Today, they are leaders in the field. Unlimited LA is a top-tier director for global stars. Director Pink is now a powerhouse herself. Most importantly, she is continuing the cycle. Her Pinkline Academy is directly training the next generation of videographers and creators. This is how a sustainable ecosystem is built. One mentor inspires another.
Why The Smade NextGen Academy is So Needed
Smade’s academy is structured for real-world impact. It is a one-year grassroots incubator. It offers practical, hands-on training. Students will work on real events and projects. They will get direct access to Smade’s wealth of experience. This is not theoretical classroom learning. This is a community-driven pathway into the industry.
The academy is looking for a wide range of talent. Promoters, content creators, strategists, and designers. Also marketers, street team leaders, and managers. This is key. It takes a village to build a global genre. Every role is essential. This academy aims to strengthen every single link in the chain.
A Call to Action for More Men in Power
Smade’s move is a challenge to other successful men in the industry. The call is clear. Use your platform for more than self-promotion. Create a place for young people. Be open to mentorship. Your legacy will not be measured by your personal wins alone. It will be measured by the people you helped win too.
The future of Afrobeats depends on this generosity. The world is listening. Now, we must ensure we have enough skilled people to keep telling our story. Initiatives like the Smade NextGen Academy are vital. They ensure the rhythm never dies. They are building the future architects of our culture.
Applications for the first cohort are now open. This is more than an opportunity. It is a calling. The journey continues. And it needs you.
READ ALSO:
The Constant Reinvention of Ikechukwu Onunaku: From Rap Royalty to Author
9 Nigerian Musicians Who Successfully Switched to Acting