Empowering the Next Generation of Artists: Inside the Vwaza Music Workshops

On Saturday the 25th of April, members of our Creator Acquisition team, in partnership with The Diamond Standard, hosted a series of music workshops at the Lake Malawi University (LAMAU) and the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR).

The initiative was led by Pokani Kaunda, Vwaza’s Artist Relationship Manager, who guided both sessions with clarity and purpose. At LAMAU, it became evident that, while a number of students had heard about Vwaza, few of them fully understood how the platform works. In response, the team delivered practical, hands-on guidance, covering everything from how to upload music to our platform, how to position oneself as an artist, to understanding revenue structures on Vwaza Music. More importantly, Pokani encouraged students to take action by registering on the platform, thus opening up pathways for them to earn money from their work.

The response was immediate and encouraging! Some artists began selling their music shortly after onboarding, which in turn motivated others to sign up as well. It was a clear demonstration of how access to the right information can unlock real opportunities.

At LUANAR, the energy was different but equally powerful. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and filled with curiosity. Students were eager to understand what Vwaza offers and how it was relevant and instrumental to their success. One artist openly admitted, “I’ve been using Vwaza, but I never really understood how it can benefit me.” However, Pokani’s response captured the essence of the workshop: “That’s exactly why we’re here; to show you the way.”

The session at LUANAR stood out not only for its engagement but also for its scale. The sound setup alone created the impression of a major live event. Artists took turns singing, dancing, and freestyling, bringing the space to life. Throughout it all, Pokani remained consistent in delivering key insights, while also helping students understand how Vwaza is a viable revenue stream offering benefits that other digital streaming platforms are yet to touch.

The level of interaction was remarkable. Students asked thoughtful questions, engaged deeply with the content, and showed strong interest in the platform. Registrations increased significantly, and in one standout moment, an artist excitedly announced that their song had just been purchased, backed by proof. That single moment initiated a wave of enthusiasm, with many others eager to upload and monetize their music.

Beyond the platform itself, the workshops carried a deeper purpose. They were designed to reshape how students view themselves as artists, encouraging confidence, self-worth, and long-term vision. The conversations extended beyond Vwaza and into the business of music, touching on key elements like personal branding, marketing, and the discipline required to grow in the music industry. Pokani also emphasized the importance of balancing education with passion.

While academic growth remains critical, pursuing one’s artistic ambitions can be equally transformative, bridging the journey from where one is to where one aspires to be.

Despite the general perception that digital innovation can be slow to adopt, our experience told a different story. Most students were able to quickly understand and navigate the Vwaza Music platform, highlighting its accessibility and user-friendly design. Many openly praised the app for being modern, intuitive, and relevant to their needs as emerging artists.

Overall, the workshops were not just about introducing our platform; they were about unlocking potential, building confidence, and showing young artists that their craft can translate into real value.