Music Publishers Association announces first six scholars for diversity initiative NXT-Gen Scholars

The scholarship scheme, which grants free NXT-Gen memberships to successful ethnically diverse applicants, has been spearheaded by Richard Toeman Scholarship 2019/20 winner Clare Everson, alongside MPA Board member Jackie Davidson.

NXT-Gen membership was created to nurture the next generation of music publishers, offering access to publishing communities, networking events and career-building resources.

Chella Mac, Natalie Reid, Sam Picton, Anthony Lee, Renee Oribhabor and Mez Austin-Davis are the recipients of the first six scholarships. They will enjoy access to all MPA training courses, networking opportunities, involvement in the MPA Futures Group, one-on-one support from our membership team, wellbeing programmes and access to work experience opportunities. 

NXT-Gen Scholar Anthony Lee said: 'Growing up in Yorkshire, I found that there was very little infrastructure or opportunity to work in music outside of London. I had no industry connections, and as a result found it difficult to pursue music as a viable career option.

'Having focused on building my network, I believe that the NXT-Gen Scholarship will enable me to foster a greater understanding of how best to continue to nurture those relationships and how to navigate the music industry.'

Read more about NXT-Gen Membership here.