AFRIMA offers all-expense-paid trip — See how to qualify!

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has officially opened applications for its 9th Edition Diamond Showcase, a premier platform created to spotlight Africa’s most promising emerging music talents.

In the press statement released on Tuesday, AFRIMA announced that the Diamond Showcase portal is now live, inviting singers, rappers, DJs, producers, and instrumentalists from across the continent to submit entries.

The initiative is designed to give undiscovered artists a rare opportunity to present their talent to a global audience and take a significant step toward mainstream recognition.

Janatte Haddadi, AFRIMA’s Regional Manager for Northern Africa, described the platform as a life-changing opportunity for young creatives who are ready for the next level of their careers.

According to her, many gifted African artists often remain unheard within their communities despite having exceptional potential. She noted that the Diamond Showcase aims to bridge that gap by providing visibility, mentorship, and industry access.

Haddadi revealed that applications will run from November 18 to December 8, 2025, urging interested artists to apply early via the official portal at afrima.org/Diamond-Showcase or AFRIMA’s Instagram page.

Applicants are required to upload a 45-second performance video, after which the AFRIMA Jury will shortlist the top 15 finalists, known as “The Diamonds.”

These finalists will be invited to Lagos for the live Showcase scheduled for January 6–7, 2026, with performances taking place each evening from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

The selected artists will enjoy an all-expense-paid trip to Lagos, exclusive AFRIMA merchandise, mentorship sessions, and the opportunity to perform before high-profile music executives, media houses, and influential industry leaders.

“We want to find the brightest diamonds in the rough across Africa,” Haddadi said. “If you believe in your gift, this is the time to act. Don’t wait. Don’t hold back. Submit your entry. Africa is ready to meet its next big talents.”

The Diamond Showcase forms part of the activities leading up to the 9th AFRIMA Awards, set to hold in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026. The ceremony, organised in partnership with the African Union and Lagos State Government, will feature the Africa Music Business Summit, Music Village Concert, Nominees Party, Red Carpet, and the grand Awards Night.

The event will be broadcast to more than 84 countries worldwide.