Applications for a scholarship to the University of Westminster’s MA in Music Business Management, established in memory of late British music executive Richard Antwi, are now open for 2022.
The Richard Antwi Scholarship accepts applications from aspiring music executives from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds who already hold an offer of a place on the Music Business Management MA course at University of Westminster.
The scholarship was founded in 2016 by friends and family, as a response to the sudden death of Richard Antwi, a hugely respected industry lawyer, manager and entrepreneur, who had contributed to the Music Business Management MA course on numerous occasions as a guest lecturer.
The annual award comprises full course fees; a bursary of £10,500; mentorship and assistance with work placement aligned with the scholar’s professional focus and aspirations.
The award is funded by all three UK major record labels, music publishers, and several of the top independent music companies and music law firms: Sony Music UK, Universal Music UK, Warner Music UK, Sony Music Publishing, XL Records, Beggars Group, Young, Clintons, Hoare Associates and Modest! Management.
Previous scholars include inaugural recipient Jojo Mukeza, Esther Bokuma (aka Estee Blu), all of whom are now placed within the industry, as well as associate scholars, Daniel Beckley and Isatta Sheriff.
Following a hiatus in 2020, last year (2021) saw the scholarship award full bursaries to two scholars: Shanice Edwards and Idris Green Holder, the latter of whom received a scholarship supported by Universal Music UK and will be placed into the company’s Graduate Programme as Richard Antwi Graduate Programme Executive.
The Music Business Management MA course first Open Day of 2022 will take place in person in London on Wednesday March 2, at 5.30pm-7pm, course details are here and scholarship application form is here.
The scholarship’s Industry Champions Alec Boateng (Co-President, 0207 Def Jam), Taponeswa Mavunga (Director of Africa, Sony Music UK), alongside artist and industry executive Wretch 32, are supporting the announcement and encouraging aspiring “future industry leaders” to sign up now to the Course Open Day to find out more.
“My connection with Richard Antwi was deep. When somebody goes through your life, they leave a mark. Thankful to him for all that he has given me, and so many other people.”
Alec Boateng, 0207 Def Jam
Alec Boateng (co-President, 0207 Def Jam), said: “My connection with Richard Antwi was deep. When somebody goes through your life, they leave a mark. Thankful to him for all that he has given me, and so many other people.
“I love that his legacy is still felt and it’s a privilege to support the Richard Antwi Scholarship and its vision of increasing representation for our next generation of music industry leaders. This is a call to get involved and grab the opportunity now.”
“My 20 year friendship with Richard was a blessing and I feel honoured to support a cause he was passionate about for a second year – bringing through excellence in the next generation of cultural leaders.”
Taponeswa Mavunga Sony Music
Taponeswa Mavunga (Director of Africa, Sony Music UK), added: “My 20 year friendship with Richard was a blessing and I feel honoured to support a cause he was passionate about for a second year – bringing through excellence in the next generation of cultural leaders.
“The Richard Antwi Scholarship is a route into the industry and the results speak for themselves. I’m so happy to support the call for those with aspirations of making it into the industry – this is your chance to seize the day, you could be the next Richard Antwi scholar.”
“Six years on from Richard’s passing, it is truly amazing to see his legacy and vision still alive through the wonderful Richard Antwi Scholarship.”
Phillip Antwi
Phillip Antwi said: “Six years on from Richard’s passing, it is truly amazing to see his legacy and vision still alive through the wonderful Richard Antwi Scholarship.
“My family and I are delighted that Richard’s scholarship now opens for its fifth round, as it allows us not only to honour and pay tribute to my brother Richard and what he stood for, but also to increase access and opportunities for diverse future leaders to make it through to careers in the industry through the trusted pathway that the scholarship provides.”
“I urge anyone that is seated at the corridor of the music business with hopes and dreams of getting into the industry, this is your call to please apply.”
Jojo Mukeza, scholar
Jojo Mukeza, 2018 scholar, said: “For the last 18 months I’ve been diligently navigating in this industry trying to find purpose and develop the essential skills needed to be successful in a high pressure, high stakes game.
“In many moments of isolation and doubt, I have always felt the presence and support of the Richard Antwi Scholarship Team. Almost three years have passed since I graduated and the continued support from the RAS team has been invaluable.
“I urge anyone that is seated at the corridor of the music business with hopes and dreams of getting into the industry, this is your call to please apply.”
“Receiving the scholarship has truly been a life changing experience. It unlocked knowledge and career opportunities that I hadn’t considered prior to embarking on the MA course.”
Esther Bokuma, scholar
Esther Bokuma 2019 scholar, said: “Receiving the scholarship has truly been a life changing experience. It unlocked knowledge and career opportunities that I hadn’t considered prior to embarking on the MA course.
“I have really valued the support of the dedicated scholarship team and course leaders, not only during my degree but beyond graduation. They’ve been a source of encouragement, support and counsel as I continue to carve out my evolving and dynamic career.
“I’d encourage everyone who’s passionate about building a career in the music industry to come to the Open Day and find out how they can apply for the scholarship.”Music Business Worldwide
