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STANBIC BANK BOTSWANA AND KINGDOM ARTS ACADEMY PARTNER TO SUPPORT BOTSWANA SOCIETY FOR JAZZ EDUCATION
Stanbic Bank Botswana, through its Accelerate Incubator, is pleased to announce a partnership with Kingdom Arts Academy, a local music training school for support of Botswana Society for Jazz Education (BOSJE) Junior Band, a musical ensemble managed by the Academy. The Stanbic Bank Accelerate Incubator and Kingdom Arts Academy partnership is a significant milestone in further working to support BOSJE youth through further orienting their lives in a positive trajectory, starting with the release and launch of their new extended play album (EP), dubbed ‘Inception.’ The album was launched on Friday the 30th of April 2021, being UNESCO’s International Jazz commemorative Day, at Maitisong in Gaborone.
BOSJE, established in 2015, was formed to create a platform for jazz musicians and aspiring jazz musicians to grow, to share ideas and even have their work documented, thus assuring the growth and development of jazz in Botswana. The BOSJE album launch was invested in by Accelerate with a view towards gaining maximum market uptake, visibility and access. This included livestream of the launch by The Voice Newspaper and Hub TV as well as assistance to ensure album availability to global audiences on Spotify and Amazon. BOSJE comprises teenagers, most of whom are vulnerable youth or who have dropped out of formal education. Kingdom Arts Academy works to help ensure due structure and positive development for these youth through the arts.
Said Head of the Accelerate Incubator, Mr. Larona Makgoeng, “We are tremendously excited to launch this partnership and to support BOSJE in this journey. As part of our strategy for 2021, the Stanbic Bank Botswana Accelerate Incubator has elected to work with different enterprises whose mandate aligns to youth employability and entrepreneurship development in order to achieve desired impact. This partnership is very much aligned to our mandate and our chosen impact areas and we have every confidence in BOSJE’s talent, passion and ability to truly make their mark.”
Accelerate will further support by funding 20 members of BOSJE to attain international music qualifications in the United Kingdom through Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). ABRSM is the exam board delivering over 650,000 music exams and assessments every year in 93 countries since it was founded in 1889. Post attainment of this qualification, passing musicians will not only have refined their skill for further creative entrepreneurship, but they will also have enhanced employability prospects and entrepreneurship development.
Speaking on behalf of Kingdom Arts Academy, Ms. Akhutleleng Mogami noted, “The creative arts space has been so hard hit by COVID-19, and it is encouraging to see corporate bodies working to help alleviate the negative impact of the pandemic through support, and indeed long-term support. This is a talented young cohort of musicians and we are confident of the bright things that lay ahead for them after this gesture of support from Stanbic Bank.”
Following the launch, Accelerate will play host to a 1-day music workshop for these apprentices comprising a cohort of global expert as follows to further prepare them for the examinations and their ongoing music developmental journey, covering: Music business industry (Ms. Tumisang Matthiessen); Learning jazz standards (a friend to the society from Switzerland, Mr. Christoph Siegenthaer); Jazz styles (Mr. Tony Jones and Mrs. Jessica Jones from the USA); and Improvisation (Professor John Coggiola from the USA).
Concluded Makgoeng, “In line with Stanbic Bank Botswana’s Purpose, Botswana is our home, we drive her growth, we really are working to help ensure we transform Batswana’s dreams into last realities, fueling their growth stories. As we say, with Stanbic Bank, It Can Be, and this is yet another testament to our efforts to demonstrate this through sustainable actions. Accelerate is making it possible for individuals to attain their potential in their different spheres of vocations, in this case investing in an otherwise struggling and rich with potential creative arts space, whilst at once potentially changing the socio-economic story of a group of young Batswana.”
Celebrated poet and musician iDLE is thrilled to announce the release of his latest single, “Soboka,” now available on all major streaming platforms.
The new single, “Soboka,” marks a powerful return for iDLE, showcasing his lyrical ability and unique storytelling. The song reflects iDLE’s artistic growth and renewed energy.
“I took a break from performing and releasing poetry, but my pen never rested,” said iDLE. “The ink flowed over many pages, telling countless stories. Now, after finding balance in all things art, I’m excited to share this journey with you all. ‘Soboka’ is just the beginning.”
Key Highlights:
Release Date: 01/07/2024
Streaming Platforms: Available on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon Music, and more.
Music Video: An official music video for “Soboka” will be released soon.
About iDLE: iDLE is a renowned poet from Kanye, Botswana, known for his captivating performances and thought-provoking poetry. iDLE has touched the hearts of many with his words and music. His hiatus allowed him to explore new artistic avenues, leading to the creation of “Soboka,” a testament to his enduring talent and passion for the arts.
Established in 2008, the Technical Device Fund Levy aims to foster the creation and production of literary and artistic works while supporting the enforcement of copyright and neighboring rights. This initiative has significantly contributed to the technological advancement of businesses, particularly SMEs, across various industries. In this article, we explore the achievements of the fund to date, the impact it has had on local businesses, and the monitoring tools employed by CIPA to ensure the effective use of the funding. Joining us for an insightful discussion is Ms. Keitseng Monyatsi from Copyright Administration at CIPA, who will provide an update on the latest developments and future plans for the fund.
Rati: Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we have a special update from the Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) regarding the Levy Technical Device Fund. We are joined by Ms. Keitseng Monyatsi, who will shed some light on the latest developments. Thank you for being with us today.
Ms. Monyatsi: Thank you for having me.
Rati: Can you start by giving us an overview of the Levy Technical Device Fund and its primary objectives?
Ms. Monyatsi: Certainly. The Levy Technical Device Fund is an initiative by CIPA aimed at supporting the acquisition of technical devices that enhance the operations and capabilities of businesses, particularly SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises). The primary objective is to promote technological advancement and innovation within the business community, ensuring that local businesses remain competitive in an increasingly digital global market.
Rati: That sounds like a significant step forward. Can you tell us about the recent updates or changes to the fund?
Ms. Monyatsi: Absolutely. One of the key updates is the increase in the funding limit. Previously, businesses could apply for up to BWP 50,000 in support, but we have now raised this limit to BWP 100,000. This change is aimed at accommodating larger-scale projects and more advanced technological needs.
Rati: That’s a substantial increase. What has prompted this decision?
Ms. Monyatsi: We’ve seen a growing demand for more sophisticated technology among local businesses. As they scale up and face more complex challenges, the need for advanced devices and systems has become more apparent. The increase in funding is a response to these evolving needs, ensuring that businesses have the resources to invest in cutting-edge technology.
Rati: How can businesses apply for this fund, and what are the eligibility criteria?
Ms. Monyatsi: The application process is quite straightforward. Businesses need to submit a detailed proposal outlining their technological needs and how the fund will be used to address these needs. The proposal should include a budget breakdown and expected outcomes. As for eligibility, applicants must be registered with CIPA and demonstrate a clear need for the technical device in question. Priority is given to businesses that can show potential for significant impact and innovation.
Rati: Are there any success stories or examples of businesses that have benefited from the Levy Technical Device Fund?
Ms. Monyatsi: Yes, there are several success stories. For instance, a local agribusiness recently used the fund to purchase advanced irrigation systems, which significantly increased their yield and efficiency. Another example is a tech startup that acquired high-performance servers to support their growing client base, enabling them to scale their operations and offer better services.
Rati: It’s great to hear such positive outcomes. What are the future plans for the Levy Technical Device Fund?
Ms. Monyatsi: We plan to continue expanding the fund and exploring partnerships with other organizations to provide even more comprehensive support. Additionally, we are looking into offering training and advisory services to help businesses make the most of their technological investments.
Rati: Thank you for sharing these insights. Any final words for businesses considering applying for the fund?
Ms. Monyatsi: I would encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this opportunity. Investing in technology can be a game-changer, and the Levy Technical Device Fund is here to support you in making that leap. Don’t hesitate to reach out to CIPA for assistance with your application.
Rati: Thank you, Ms. Monyatsi, for this informative update. We look forward to seeing how the fund continues to benefit the business community.
Ms. Monyatsi: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.
The wait is almost over! Priscilla K, the versatile and high-potential artist, has just announced that her much-anticipated album is coming out soon. Fans have been eagerly asking for new music, and she’s finally delivering. This year alone, she dropped a joint project with superstar Han C and St Louis, adding to her collection of multiple hit records.
Priscilla K has been honing her craft and has collaborated with some of the best in the industry, including Chef Gustos and her long-time collaborator Dj Levels. Recently, she teamed up with Flex the Ninja on production, promising a fresh and exciting sound.
A few years ago, Priscilla K was part of an initiative by Red Bull Music and Tall Racks Records called Lift As You Rise. This initiative gave artists from around the continent the opportunity to submit their own 16 bars to tracks that already featured verses by renowned artists like Nasty C, Tellaman, Gemini Major, Rowlene, Lastee, and Zino D.
She’s also made significant strides across the border, collaborating with Sun El Musician, Karyendasoul, and many other top Deejays, further showcasing her versatility and talent.
We’re so ready to experience what this BW native is about to dish out
