Spotify has announced Nigerian artiste Nissi as its EQUAL Africa Ambassador for October, recognising her as a leading figure in the growing movement of African women excelling across creative and technical industries.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, made the announcement on Wednesday in Lagos. She said Nissi represents a new generation of African women who are not only thriving in music but also making strides in science, technology, engineering, and the arts.
Okumu noted that Nissi, who is also a visual artist and engineer, integrates creativity and innovation across her work. “Through her innovative approach, Nissi actively works to empower women in technology and innovation, serving as a powerful inspiration for a new generation of female creatives and artistes,” she said.
As a singer and songwriter, Nissi is known for blending Afrobeats, funk, and soul with positive, inspiring lyrics. “In 2023, she released “Nobody”, featuring Fireboy DML, an infectious pop masterpiece that fuses R&B and Afrobeats into a rich, melodic experience,” Okumu added.
Beyond her achievements in music, Nissi’s work extends into the world of engineering and design. She was part of the elite design team behind the Bentley Bentayga SUV, an accomplishment that makes her one of the few Black women to have contributed to such a high-profile automotive project.
“Her work shows that her talent transcends music, bridging art, science, and engineering in a way that highlights the limitless potential of African women,” Okumu said.
Spotify’s EQUAL Africa initiative, launched to promote gender equity in the music industry, continues to give women across the continent greater visibility and access to global audiences. According to Okumu, the programme provides “the platform, visibility and resources they need to tell their stories and connect with audiences worldwide.”
“Nissi represents a new wave of African creatives who are shaping the culture from every angle,” Okumu said.
“She’s not only pushing boundaries through her music but she’s also showing that women can lead across music, art, and technology; that’s exactly what EQUAL Africa celebrates,” Okumu said.
Responding to the announcement, Nissi expressed her gratitude to Spotify and praised the EQUAL programme for empowering female artists across Africa. “Music has been a part of my life since I was five years old, playing the keyboard in music school. I knew it was a part of my destiny when I made my first demo at 13,” she said.
She also offered advice to women working in male-dominated spaces, encouraging them to remain determined and confident in their abilities. “Most industries are not easy on women. My perspective allows me to always see that there’s nothing I can’t achieve, so I just go for it, and I hope that someday people recognise all the things that I am,” Nissi said.
“All my life, I’ve been in male-dominated industries and my ethos has always been to keep putting in the work, being your best, and that no one can do it the way that you do,” she added.
