VIGA Programs
NextGEM
Next Generation Mi-Artist
A talent search and empowerment agenda for emerging music creatives in the church — preparing a new generation of effective artists and reshaping the Church's understanding of faith-inspired creativity.
Overview
Across Uganda and much of Africa, creatives have long been overlooked. The situation has been even tougher for church creatives, where gospel music was sometimes framed as something that should not enter the marketplace — leaving many young artists unpaid and under-supported.
It is not a sin to benefit from God-given talents. NextGEM addresses this by preparing a new generation of effective artists and reshaping the Church's understanding of faith-inspired creativity — raising Mi-Artists ready to operate within the Mindustry (ministry + industry).
Aims & Objectives
Identify Mi-Artists
Identify and empower emerging creatives in the church as Minister-Artists.
Shift Mindsets
Facilitate dialogue between artists, church leaders and stakeholders so faith-inspired creativity is valued as both ministry and industry — the 'Mindustry'.
Equip the Church
Equip church leaders to act as executive producers who nurture and steward creatives in their congregations.
Improve Livelihoods
Promote understanding and enforcement of copyright, neighbouring rights and labour rights for Christian artists.
Grow the Industry
Support increased incomes by streamlining the gospel creative economy and creating jobs.
Raise Change Agents
Raise effective advocates for the holistic value of Christian and gospel music and arts.
How It Works
Call for Entries
Announcements run in media, churches and on our platforms — registrations via website and designated physical locations.
Round 1
A set number of participants per region are screened to the top ten per region (5 women, 5 men).
Round 2
The ten regional finalists present an original composition — a cappella or with acoustic accompaniment. Top two per region (1 woman, 1 man) advance.
Final
Each finalist receives a professional audio & video recording entered into the VIGA Music Awards 'New Artist of the Year' category for public voting. All nominees receive prizes and take part in a national tour.
Who can audition?
NextGEM is for raw talent — individuals who have never recorded a song — and for emerging young artists who have not yet had a breakthrough. To qualify, applicants must complete a registration form and return it with an endorsement from their spiritual leader or local church pastor / priest.