By Priscilla Phiri

October 25, Lilongwe, Mana: Malawian Creatives are in for a treat as Next Level USA announces the launch of its Next Level Academy Malawi, a 10-days masterclass and workshop series in Lilongwe.

According to a Press Statement released on Thursday by Next Level USA, the masterclasses aim to provide intensive training in various artistic disciplines including dance, beat-making, MCing, and street art, alongside entrepreneurship and conflict transformation workshops.

The program, which is open to individuals aged between 18 to 35, will be facilitated by renowned artist-educators from the United States. The line-up includes Queen Gabby (Dance), Polaryss (MC), DJ Hoppa (Beatmaker), Nosey42 (Aerosol/Street Art), and Masta Minch (Videographer), under the leadership of Site Manager MeccaGodZilla as per the statement.

Excited by the event, MeccaGodZilla, expressed his enthusiasm to lead a team for Next Level's cultural exchange in Malawi in collaboration with Kweza in Lilongwe.

“We are not just sharing our expertise in Hip Hop, we are here to connect, learn, and grow together with the incredible artists of Malawi. This program is all about building bridges through the universal language of Hip Hop, and I can’t wait to see what we create together,” he said.

The masterclasses are scheduled to take place at Kweza Arts’ Hub in Area 3, Lilongwe, from November 4th to November 15th.

Meanwhile, applications for the program are open and participation is free with provision of transport to and from a central point within Lilongwe.

Next Level is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Centre, with a mission to use Hip Hop music, dance, and art to foster cross-cultural creative exchange in diverse communities.

The Next Level Academy Malawi is implemented by Kweza Arts with support from the U.S. Embassy in Malawi.