As Bridges for Music continues to make a significant impact, we reflect on its journey of community transformation through music. This non-profit organization has evolved from local workshops into a global catalyst for social change, culminating in the release of ‘SELA,’ an innovative musical collaboration that exemplifies its mission.
Photo credit: Bridges for Music – Official
Founded by visionaries from the local and global music industry, Bridges for Music has become a beacon of hope for underprivileged communities. Using music as a universal language, the organization catalyzes education and nurtures at-risk young talent, creating a lasting impact in South Africa and beyond.
Bridges for Music first gained attention by hosting workshops featuring international and local music icons in South African townships. These events, showcasing artists like Ed Sheeran and Black Coffee, served as catalysts for change—breaking down barriers and highlighting township culture.
For aspiring artists from Langa, Soweto, Gugulethu, and Khayelitsha, these events provided unprecedented access to industry giants in an intimate, nurturing environment. The impact was profound, opening doors that once seemed firmly shut.
Building on the workshops’ success, Bridges for Music launched a scholarship program, propelling local talent to international stages. Young township artists performed at major festivals like Glastonbury and Tomorrowland, often traveling abroad for the first time—an experience that broadened their horizons and ignited new ambitions.
In 2017, Bridges for Music began constructing the Bridges Academy in Langa, addressing the need for safe, creative spaces in the Cape Flats. This world-class talent incubator aimed to serve communities across South Africa.
Launched in 2019, the Academy quickly became a community hub. Its design blends technology and artistry, fostering an environment where local creatives flourish as both entrepreneurs and artists.
At its core, the Bridges Academy aims to democratize creative expression and harness music as a tool for modern education. The curriculum transcends traditional music education, offering a holistic program that provides educational resources, emotional support, and access to professional networks—all crucial elements for navigating the gig economy and fostering innovative thinking.
The MusicMBA, a standout program at the academy, offers a free 20-week intensive course with over 700 hours of industry-led instruction. Based on Self-Determination Theory, it cultivates autonomy, competence, and relatedness to enhance participants’ engagement, motivation, and well-being.
The MusicMBA’s strength lies in its diverse network of mentors and employers, ranging from executives to local role models. This network opens unique opportunities for aspiring artists, unlocking doors previously inaccessible.
The Bridges Academy’s impact is significant, serving over 150 students annually and creating more than 200 job opportunities. Bridges for Music plans to expand this model, aiming to transform more young lives and influence the broader education sector.
Bridges for Music has partnered with Scorpios Music to release ‘SELA,’ a collaborative record featuring Cape Town’s Sakhe The Conqueror. This vibrant track blends PAAX’s experimental sound with Sakhe’s powerful isiXhosa vocals, remixed by Jean Claude Ades and featuring Cuban guitarist Emilio Campos Rojas. All proceeds from ‘SELA’ will support Bridges for Music’s mission to empower young creatives from underserved communities in Cape Town, showcasing the talent of Bridges Academy alumnus Sakhe The Conqueror.
As it continues to grow, Bridges for Music exemplifies music’s power to educate, empower, and drive social change. Through innovative programs and global partnerships, the organization continues to bridge communities and turn young artists’ dreams into reality.
‘SELA’ is out now on SCM. Stream and download here.
