The global DJ education initiative, Start From Scratch, is set for a major expansion across Nigeria following a groundbreaking and highly successful debut in Lagos throughout 2025. The program, a partnership between the cultural hub HOMECOMING and the technology leader AlphaTheta, will introduce more cities and sessions in 2026, building on the incredible momentum from its first African outing.
Unprecedented Demand in Lagos Sets New Blueprint
In a landmark move for music education on the continent, the Start From Scratch workshop series launched in Lagos in September 2025. The debut was an instant success, with the first class fully booked immediately. Additional sessions held through December were consistently oversubscribed, highlighting a massive, untapped demand for accessible DJ training in Africa's vibrant cultural capital.
The workshops, which have previously toured major hubs like London, Berlin, Paris, and Amsterdam, found a uniquely enthusiastic audience in Lagos. The program is designed for complete beginners, introducing them to the core theory, tools, and creative philosophy behind DJing. Participants engaged in hands-on learning covering everything from technical skills like beatmatching to broader concepts of musical storytelling and developing a personal sound.
A Powerful Lineup of African Music Innovators as Mentors
A key factor in the program's success was its connection to the local music scene through a carefully selected roster of mentors. The Lagos editions featured guidance from some of the most innovative voices in contemporary African music, including Dope Caesar, Weareallchemicals, and Honeeay. They were joined by influential collectives such as Dencity, Floss, and Femme Africa.
This direct access to established artists created a learning environment rooted in openness, confidence, and community. It allowed aspiring DJs to gain insights directly from the professionals who are actively shaping the future of African sound, ensuring the education was both relevant and inspirational.
Building a Global Network with Local Impact
The Lagos chapter strengthens HOMECOMING's growing global network of mentors, which also includes figures like Major League DJz, DJ Spinall, Gina Jeanz, Donnie Sunshine, Dare Balogun, and Kitty Amor. More importantly, it deepens the organization's commitment to talent development within Africa itself.
Supported by AlphaTheta's industry-leading DJ technology, the initiative has evolved beyond a simple workshop series. It represents a long-term investment in Africa's DJ culture, creative infrastructure, and broader music ecosystems. The goal is to create a sustainable platform that opens doors, builds professional skills, and carves out clear pathways for new voices to emerge and thrive.
An Ambitious Expansion Planned for 2026
Fueled by the clear impact and demand witnessed in 2025, HOMECOMING and AlphaTheta are now developing a significantly expanded program for 2026. The plan includes reaching more Nigerian cities, increasing the number of sessions, and deepening the educational curriculum.
This expansion aims to ensure that the access and opportunity pioneered in Lagos continue to grow, empowering the next generation of DJs across the continent. The success in Lagos has not only validated the model but has also provided a new blueprint for how accessible, high-quality music education can be delivered in Africa, setting the stage for a more ambitious and far-reaching chapter in the coming year.
