Tems Launches South Africa Edition of Leading Vibe Initiative

Tems has announced the South African edition of her Leading Vibe Initiative (LVI), a programme supporting emerging women in music. The event is scheduled for 21 March 2026, with applications closing at the end of February.

The initiative was first launched in Lagos in August 2025, where it worked with Nigerian producers and songwriters. A second edition followed in Nairobi. South Africa is now the next host country as the programme expands its reach across the continent.

Photo Credit – Instagram

The South African edition is open to female artists, songwriters and producers aged between 18 and 35. Participants will take part in workshops, mentorship sessions and networking opportunities focused on songwriting, music production and the business side of the industry.

Sessions will cover production processes, songwriting development and music business fundamentals. Technology company Native Instruments will provide production hardware and software during the programme.

Tems – Instagram

Women remain underrepresented in music production and executive roles globally, including in Africa. The initiative is designed to offer practical training and industry access to help address this imbalance.

Tems has previously spoken about building her career without formal mentorship, learning the technical and business aspects of music independently. She has described the initiative as an extension of that experience, aimed at giving other women access to structured support and professional networks.

Tems – Instagram

The programme is backed by Hennessy, which has supported previous editions.

South Africa’s music industry spans genres including amapiano, hip-hop, jazz and R&B, with women increasingly visible as performers. However, production and executive spaces remain less accessible. The Leading Vibe Initiative’s local edition is expected to focus on strengthening skills and expanding industry connections for participants.

Applications are currently open ahead of the March event.