The Basadi in Music Awards (BIMAs) has appointed a 12-member advisory board of women leaders from across Africa and the diaspora as the organisation marks its fifth anniversary and prepares for what it expects to be its largest edition yet in 2026.
The new board will provide strategic guidance on governance, industry trends, stakeholder engagement and growth opportunities, supporting the long-term development of the awards platform.
The announcement follows the close of nominations for the 2026 awards, which drew a record number of entries since the BIMAs were founded in 2022. Nominees are set to be announced later this month.
Advisory board members
- Yvonne Chaka Chaka
- Dr Linah Ngcobo
- Dr Mpho Phalatse
- Janine Starkey
- Dr Kina Nhlengethwa
- Lerato Matsoso
- Penny Bouwer
- Antos Stella
- Yolanda Sangweni
- Lala Tuku
- Sibu Mabena
- Manaileng Maphike
The board members bring expertise from the music, media, business, healthcare, legal and creative sectors across Africa and the diaspora.
Strategic guidance
BIMAs said the board will advise on organisational strategy, strengthen partnerships and support initiatives aimed at advancing women in the music industry.
“As we celebrate five years of the Basadi in Music Awards, we are intentional about building a sustainable institution that will continue to champion women in music for generations to come,” said founder Hloni Modise Matau. “This Advisory Board brings together extraordinary leaders whose collective experience, wisdom and passion for Africa will help guide the next chapter of our growth. We are honoured to have these remarkable women walk this journey with us as we continue creating opportunities, driving impact and elevating women across the music and creative industries.”
Continental expansion
The formation of the advisory board is part of a broader strategy to deepen collaboration across the continent, expand industry development programmes and increase the organisation’s role in supporting women in Africa’s creative economy.
Founded in 2022, the Basadi in Music Awards recognise the achievements of women working across the music and entertainment sectors. The 2026 edition is expected to be the largest in the event’s history following the record number of nominations received.
