ARMC Announces Pre-Conference Roadshows in Collaboration with AlphaTheta

13 February 2025 - Press release

The Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) is thrilled to announce its continued collaboration with long-standing partner AlphaTheta, on a dynamic series of pre-ARMC roadshow events in Kenya and Durban, leading up to the highly anticipated ARMC 2025 in Johannesburg. These roadshow events and the main event in May will feature interactive DJ workshops for both beginners and intermediate-level enthusiasts, led by seasoned professionals such as Lelowhatsgood, Ms Party, Fundi Mbambani, DJ Shock, Tina Ardor and Rarri. Additionally, ARMC will curate engaging panel discussions aimed at connecting and inspiring music professionals while offering invaluable insights to educate and empower emerging talent. This initiative reinforces ARMC and AlphaTheta's shared commitment to nurturing Africa's music industry and fostering innovation across the continent, inspiring the next generation of talent.

Roadshow Itinerary:

1. Kenya:
Dates: 18 - 21 February 2025
Location: Kilele Summit, Nairobi Kenya, The Mall Westlands, The Mist

Workshop Details: 19 February,  12:00 & 15:00 (no Kilele Ticket needed)

Panel Program: 

1. Independent Label Mixer - 18 February, 17:00 (Kilele Ticket needed)

2. Signal Flow 2.0: International Networks - 20 February 10:00 (Kilele Ticket needed)

 

For the East African edition of the roadshow, we have partnered with Kilele Summit for the first-ever pre-ARMC roadshow in Kenya. Featuring DJ workshops by Kenyan trailblazers Tina Ardor, celebrated for her Afro-fusion sound, and DJ Shock, a pioneer in East African electronic music, alongside panel discussions with industry leaders like ARMC Founder Sarah Jane Nicholson, attendees can expect an immersive experience blending Afro-house, electronic sounds, and cutting-edge music industry insights.

 

Workshop sign-ups are now open here: https://partiful.com/u/2gLOvjQI30KViXyxyuy5 

 

2. Durban:
Dates: 22 - 23 March 2025
Location: KUMISA Office - 114 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, Durban, 4001

Workshop Details: 22 and 23 March, 10:00

Panel Program: 

1. Making Music Accessible: Inclusive Practices in the Industry - 22 March, 13:00

2. Maximizing Revenue and Building a Standout Brand in the Digital Era - 23 March, 13:00

 

For the Durban leg of the roadshow, we are partnering with KUMISA (KwaZulu-Natal United Music Industry Association), a local organization dedicated to empowering the creative sector through skills development, advocacy, and networking opportunities. The event will feature DJ workshops hosted by Bridges For Music Ambassador Fundi Mbambani, alongside insightful panels on inclusive practices in the music industry, effective branding strategies, and maximizing income as an independent artist. Stay tuned—speakers will be announced soon! 

Workshop sign-ups are now open here: https://partiful.com/u/2gLOvjQI30KViXyxyuy5 

 

3. Johannesburg:

Dates: 28 - 29 May 2025 

For the third consecutive year, the Africa Rising Music Conference and AlphaTheta are proud to present their DJ Workshop series, returning this May with an inspiring lineup of trainers. South African heavyweights Lelowhatsgood, a Boiler Room alumnus celebrated for his dynamic sets and cultural influence, and Ms Party, also a Boiler Room alumni and,  a pioneering force in South Africa's queer DJ scene,, will lead this year's sessions. Ms Party led the rise of openly queer DJs in the country, inspiring a culture and creating a movement that reshaped the industry. As the first queer DJ to perform on national public service television (SABC 1) in 2014, they introduced a groundbreaking performance style—dancing to their own sets—now a standard in the South African DJ landscape. Joining them is emerging talent Rarri, whose innovative approach and passion for empowering women in music add fresh energy to the program. 

 

Regarding his participation in the DJ workshops, Lelowhatsgood shares: "I'm excited to share my knowledge and pass down the skills I have also been taught to the next generation of up and coming DJs. Sharing not only builds community but ensures the standard is maintained." 

Ms Party says: "So you've mastered the basics, now what? This intermediate class is your next step to becoming a true DJ.  We'll go beyond the decks and dive deep into developing your unique style. As a member of the LGBTQI+ community, I know firsthand how important it is to stand out and let your talent shine.  In this industry, it's your skills that break down barriers and overcome stereotypes. I've spent 14 years crafting my own signature sound, and I'm here to help you find yours. Let's unlock your DJ potential together!"

 

Save the dates—sign-ups open soon!

 

Why Attend?

These pre-ARMC events in collaboration with AlphaTheta  offer attendees unique opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration in the run-up to ARMC 2025, set to take place on 28-29 May in Johannesburg, South Africa. Attendees will gain DJ experience, industry insights, and get the chance to connect with music professionals.

Sign Up Today!
We encourage our community in Kenya and Durban, to register and join us on this exciting journey toward ARMC 2025. Space is limited! For more information and to sign up, visit: https://partiful.com/u/2gLOvjQI30KViXyxyuy5