YES Academy Nigeria 2021

The YES Academy Nigeria Virtual program is a 10-day online intensive workshop in March 2021 in Songwriting, Collaboration, Musicianship and Production for up to 60 participants aged 18-28 from various musical backgrounds.

Do you have a passion for singing, songwriting, instrumental music, or producing music? Would you like to collaborate with other artists, under the guidance of inspirational musicians and performers from the United States?

The YES Academy Nigeria Virtual activities include virtual classes, performance opportunities and artistic collaboration. You will have the chance to learn with the amazing American instructors, right from your own home! American Voices YES Academy programs underscore talent development and capacity building in the performing arts, youth socialization and integration, and entrepreneurial and leadership development. YES Nigeria is funded by the United States Government.

Stand In My Way – Richard’s Team

Nigeria Song – Steven’s Team

Earthshaker – Tony’s Team

Hope – Kate’s Team

Soro Soke – Alfredo’s Team

YES Academy Nigeria 2021 Staff

Jessica Bongos

Jessica Bongos

Program Coordinator

Jessica Bongos is an Abuja based, independent recording and performing artist from Otukpo, Benue State: born in Lagos State, Nigeria. She acquired a Bachelor’s degree in International Development and a Masters in Leisure events and facilities management. Jessica officially started singing with her father, Bongos lkwue in 2006, recording backing vocals on a few of his songs. She stepped out on her own as a solo singer in 2013 when she released her debut single titled “You left me”. Her unique, raspy, sultry vocals are intriguing to listen to and blend well with her stories of love. In 2015, Jessica Bongos was placed on the Spinlet Sound of 2016 list alongside 19 other Nigerian Artists including Kiss Daniel. Adekunle Gold and Tekno. In 2017, Jessica released her 12 track album “Broken to Peace”. She regularly produces live shows and Arts events.

Damilare Olaniyan

Damilare Olaniyan

Tech Support and Design

Damilare Olaniyan is the Public Relations Manager of Toastmasters International (Division E, District 94), a strong community of over 400 industry leaders and award-winning public speakers. He is also a digital strategist who writes and speaks about strategies through the lens of innovation, technology, and leadership with a focus on the organizations shaping the world. Damilare is the recipient of several awards including the star executive award. He works with various teams and top management to ensure improved processes, delivery of innovative services, and organizational readiness for the future of work. He is the founder of Crezel—a digital transformation company.

Atta Otigba

Atta Otigba

Media Production

Atta Otigba is an acclaimed music producer, recording and performing artist, voice actor and writer living and working out of Abuja, Nigeria. He began his journey as a classically trained pianist, then discovered a love of the guitar and developed a reputation for expressive songwriting – all the while, acquiring a degree in Computer Science. Atta has spent the last few years producing music for some of Nigeria’s most talented artists, composing music for film, and building a growing personal catalog of song releases. Atta also works as a professional voice actor from his home studio in Abuja, lending his voice to international brands all across the globe.
Maria Stallone

Maria Stallone

Director of Programming

Maria Stallone has over 25 years of professional experience in international education and programming. She completed her graduate work in Ethnomusicology, achieving an Award of Merit, at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London. Maria worked as a consultant for Columbia University and was the recipient of the prestigious Rotary Foundation Fellowship. She served as the Director of five different university study abroad centers in Asia and Europe. In this role she was responsible for all aspects of academic and logistical oversight of the programs, including supervising the development of new courses, building and managing multi-ethnic and multicultural teams, and all other aspects of in-country administration, budgeting and student services. Maria resides in Bangkok, Thailand where she is also an active member of the tango dancing community.

Instructors