Sony Music Group has opened applications for the Sony Music Group Global Scholars Programme, which will provide scholarships to students from diverse backgrounds enrolled in music or music-business programmes. Applications are now open for candidates planning to undertake full-time study at an accredited college or university in the 2022/23 academic year.
The Global Scholars Programme aims to ease the financial burden for up to 50 students, and will also provide additional support for accepted applicants. This could include support and information on university assignments, or networking events designed to connect students with industry experts.
The programme is a partnership between Sony Music Group and The Institute of International Education (IIE), which will provide a range of administrative, management and evaluation services. Funding for the programme will come from Sony’s Global Social Justice Fund, which supports anti-racist initiatives and educational opportunities globally.
Towalame Austin, executive vice president of Philanthropy and Social Impact at Sony Music Group, said: ‘We look forward to awarding these scholarships to an incredible group of recipients that have excelled academically and exude a passion for music. Through the power of education, this signature programme will provide opportunities for the music industry’s next generation of global leaders to bring diverse perspectives to corporations, artists, songwriters and composers.’
IIE's senior vice president Jonah Kokodyniak said: ‘We are honoured to be working with Sony Music Group on this incredible new scholarship programme – the only one of its kind in the world to focus on creating access to education and careers in music. We look forward to collaborating with SMG to build a diverse, global cohort full of talented young people in the industry and applaud Sony for its landmark investment in creating a more diverse, equitable future.’
