The 2026 edition of ELEV8 Live Powered by NCBA has officially been launched, marking another milestone in the growth of Kenya’s creative industry.
The announcement was made during a special screening of the 2025 ELEV8 Live documentary held at Two Rivers Cinemax, where organizers also unveiled the first three featured artists for the upcoming series.
Backed by NCBA Group, the ELEV8 Live programme continues to position itself as a transformative platform for emerging creatives.
Its core mission is to empower artists by providing them with the tools and support needed to build sustainable, scalable careers in an increasingly competitive creative economy.
The initiative goes beyond performance exposure, offering a comprehensive development package that includes mentorship from industry professionals, access to recording studios, and financial literacy training.
Participants are also introduced to tailored financial solutions designed to help them manage and grow their income streams effectively.
Since its inception, ELEV8 Live has onboarded 17 artists, nurturing their growth and helping them navigate the business side of the creative sector. With the launch of the 2026 series, the programme aims to nearly double its reach, targeting a total of 32 creatives in the upcoming cycle.
The unveiling of the first three artists signals the beginning of what promises to be another impactful season, as ELEV8 Live continues to spotlight Kenya’s diverse and dynamic talent pool.
The programme’s emphasis on long-term career development reflects a broader shift within the industry—recognizing creativity not just as an art form, but as a viable economic driver.
The screening event also highlighted the journey of previous participants through the 2025 documentary, offering insights into the challenges and successes experienced by artists in the programme.
This retrospective served as both inspiration and proof of concept, demonstrating the tangible impact of structured support in the creative sector.
As Kenya’s creative economy continues to expand, initiatives like ELEV8 Live Powered by NCBA are playing a crucial role in shaping its future—bridging the gap between talent and opportunity and ensuring that emerging artists are equipped to thrive both artistically and financially.
