In the past five years, African women in music have made impressive strides, breaking into spaces once dominated by their male counterparts. Names like Tems, Ayra Starr, Tyla, and Amaarae have risen to international prominence, reshaping the landscape of the music industry. But for two-time Grammy Award-winning artiste, Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, her success isn’t just about chart-topping hits. She’s on a mission to redefine the industry and leave behind a legacy that goes beyond her music.
Tems’ influence extends beyond her soulful vocals and innovative sound. Her latest effort, the Leading Vibe Initiative (LVI), aims to pave the way for the next generation of female artistes, producers, and songwriters. Through mentorship and support, the initiative connects these emerging talents with the resources they need to thrive in a still-challenging industry.
The first in-person program of the Leading Vibe Initiative took place in Lagos from August 8 to 9, 2025. Supported by Hennessy and Native Instruments, the event brought together 20 women from across Nigeria who are carving out their place in music. These participants, ranging from up-and-coming artistes to producers and songwriters, engaged in a series of masterclasses, workshops, and panel discussions. The core tracks of the event covered performance, songwriting, and music production, providing valuable insights into the workings of the industry.
Reflecting on the vision behind the initiative, Tems explained in a statement earlier this year that her aim is to help young women break into the music industry. “When I started as an artiste, I had to teach myself everything—from production to navigating the music industry. Today, I’m fortunate to have a team that shares my vision, but I know my story isn’t unique. There are many women with the same drive and potential, but they often lack access to the right tools or networks.”
The Leading Vibe Initiative, she says, is designed to address these barriers. “By opening doors and building a real community, we can equip more women with the tools, resources, and networks they need to break barriers, amplify their voice, and shape the future of the global music industry,” Tems added.
As she witnessed the first group of women come together in Lagos, Tems saw firsthand the power of community and support. “Seeing them supporting each other and growing through the experience reminded me exactly why this matters,” she concluded.
