Last night we hosted an event to mark the end of our 2025 BLiM Connect programme. We celebrated the incredible journey our mentors and mentees have taken together over the past four months.
Our Project Co-ordinator Mica Sefia hosted the evening alongside Nicky Brown. It was a night full of laughs, honest advice, and well-deserved recognition for everyone who has been part of the programme. We also heard heartfelt words from our Co-founders Charisse Beaumont and Roger Wilson. They spoke about why they started Black Lives in Music and highlighted the importance of representation and being in spaces that reflect you, building networks, and having mentors who can support you in reaching the rooms you want to be in.
The hosts posed this question , “What does success mean to you?” — a moment that showed just how personal and varied that answer can be. No two responses were the same, and there was no wrong answer. For some, success meant artistic freedom; for others, it was about stability, impact or joy. It was a reminder that in an industry obsessed with milestones, the real wins are deeply individual.
We closed the evening with some authentic Nigerian food from The Flygerians — from jollof rice to puff-puff. It was the perfect way to end a night that truly reflected the strong community and solid foundation that Black Lives in Music continues to build.
One Piece of Advice
During the evening, we asked our mentors to share one piece of advice they would give to someone just starting out in the music industry:
“There’s a lot that can frustrate you in this industry. What’s important is to find a community, people you feel comfortable working with. Do not get too caught up in the timeline of things, and really try to enjoy the journey.” – Nick Cole/Mentor
“Be experimental. Try different sounds, go to new places, and connect with people and spaces you would not normally find yourself in.” Graft/Mentor
“Remember why you are doing this. Remember that creative thing you love. There will be days when it does not make sense, but always go back to the reason you started — and use that to realign yourself and keep going.” – Rumbi Tauro/Mentor
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the BLiM Connect Wrap-Up party. It was a successful evening reflecting on an incredible six-month journey.
Again a huge thank you to all our mentors and mentees. Your drive, passion and commitment made this programme truly special.