Sony Music Group Announces First Ever Global Scholars Program For College Students

Sony Music Group has introduced a new global initiative offering financial support to college students studying music and music business-related fields.

Sony’s $100 million social justice fund, established in June 2020, will provide funds for the program. In addition, Sony Music Group Global Scholars Program will offer scholarships to 50 students from different backgrounds enrolled at accredited universities and colleges worldwide.

Students accepted into the program will receive financial support each year for the duration of their degree program or upon graduation. This is determined by a student’s financial need and the region where they’re based. Additionally, students outside of the U.S., where colleges and universities are publicly funded, can apply for funding assistance to cover expenses for books, equipment and university service costs.

Towalame Austin, executive VP of philanthropy and social impact at Sony Music Group, said the company is looking forward to awarding the scholarships and providing opportunities for the music industry’s next global leaders.

“We look forward to awarding these scholarships to an incredible group of recipients that have excelled academically and exude a passion for music,” Austin said. “Through the power of education, this signature program will provide opportunities for the music industry’s next generation of global leaders to bring diverse perspectives to corporations, artists, songwriters and composers.”

The Institute of International Education (IIE), a nonprofit, will administer the international application portal and provide management and evaluation services for the Sony Music program.

Jonah Kokodyniak, IIE senior VP, added that the institute looks forward to collaborating with Sony Music Group to build a diverse cohort of talented people in the industry.

“We are honored to be working with Sony Music Group on this incredible new scholarship program – the only one of its kind in the world to focus on creating access to education and careers in music,” Kokodyniak said. “We look forward to collaborating with SMG to build a diverse, global cohort full of talented young people in the industry and applaud Sony for its landmark investment in creating a more diverse, equitable future.”

Candidates must be planning to enroll full-time in an accredited college or university degree program in music or music business-related fields during the academic year 2022-2023.