Warner Music Africa, proudly announces the launch of FairPlay Songwriting Camp, a pioneering five-day event dedicated to empowering women in the music industry. Set to take place from 5 to 9 March 2025 in Sandton, Johannesburg in Gauteng province, this transformative event brings together some of the most talented female artists, producers, and songwriters from across Africa and the UK. By fostering collaboration, creativity, and mentorship, FairPlay aims to reshape the role of women in music, championing their contributions and amplifying their voices in an industry ripe for change.
The music industry, both globally and across Africa, continues to evolve at a rapid pace. However, despite its dynamism, women remain underrepresented in many facets of the sector, from songwriting and production to leadership roles. FairPlay responds to this challenge by creating a safe, inspiring, and inclusive space where women can thrive. This initiative is more than a songwriting camp; it is a movement that seeks to empower women to realise their potential, celebrate their unique voices, and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s vibrant music landscape.
Through a thoughtfully designed programme, FairPlay combines creativity, professional development, and holistic wellness to create an environment conducive to growth. Over the five days, participants will engage in a range of activities, including songwriting and recording sessions, workshops led by industry experts, and round-table discussions addressing challenges and opportunities for women in music. Beyond the creative and educational aspects, the event places a strong emphasis on mental and physical well-being, offering wellness and fitness activities to support participants in their personal and professional journeys.
One of the key objectives of FairPlay is to facilitate cross-label collaborations, fostering synergistic relationships among participants. This focus on collaboration extends beyond the camp itself, as the original music produced during the event will culminate in an EP set to be released in August 2025. By showcasing the talents of African women and amplifying their voices on an international stage, FairPlay aims to position the continent as a driving force in the global music industry.
The camp also serves as a platform for networking, providing participants with valuable opportunity to connect with talent scouts, producers, and cultural influencers. An exclusive networking dinner will celebrate the achievements of the participants, while fostering deeper connections that can lead to future collaborations. Adding to the event’s significance is the screening of a docu-series, which captures the essence of FairPlay and offers a glimpse into the transformative experiences of those involved.
Reflecting on the importance of the initiative, Promotions Specialist at Warner Music, Eric Gyimah, remarked, “the initiative’s vision and passion for empowering women in music is instrumental in bringing FairPlay to life. FairPlay is about more than music; it’s about building bridges, creating opportunities, and inspiring women to realise their potential. Through collaboration, we’re not only shaping careers but also reshaping the future of African music.”
Gyimah further elaborated on the holistic nature of the initiative, stating, “participants at FairPlay will include popular professional recording artists from countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Botswana, Cameroon, Ghana, and the UK. This diverse group reflects the initiative’s commitment to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Africa while fostering connections across borders.” He added, “the camp’s emphasis on collaboration and mentorship ensures that both emerging and established talents have the opportunity to learn from one another, creating a ripple effect that will extend far beyond the event itself.”
The programme for the camp is carefully structured to ensure a balance of creativity, learning, and reflection. Each day will focus on three core elements: a learning session, where participants gain insights into topics such as branding, sustainability, and mental wellness; a creative session, dedicated to songwriting and production; and a reflective session, to encourage participants to focus on personal growth and well-being. This holistic approach underscores FairPlay’s commitment to nurturing the whole individual, recognising that creative success is deeply intertwined with personal development.
This invite only event’s target audience includes women in the music industry, from artists and songwriters to producers and other professionals. The initiative also seeks to engage secondary audiences such as music industry stakeholders, media professionals, and cultural influencers who have the power to amplify its impact. While the camp will be held in South Africa, its reach is expected to extend across the continent and internationally through strategic digital campaigns and the release of the FairPlay EP.
“FairPlay’s significance lies not only in its celebration of women’s contributions to music but also in its potential to drive meaningful change, concluded Thomas. “By addressing the challenges faced by women in the industry and providing a platform for collaboration and growth, the initiative represents a bold step forward for African music. Through its emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and empowerment, FairPlay is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry and the lives of those it touches” concluded Gyimah.
