At the inaugural SXSW London, Ghana’s DJ Vyrusky stood out as a leading voice on the main stage panel that included Idris Elba, Kojo Owusu, Clara Amfo, and Stefan Schwartz.
The session, titled “Creativity as Capital for Change,” took place at the Truman Brewery and spotlighted how the creative industry is unlocking new economic opportunities for African creators to compete globally.
During the panel, DJ Vyrusky delivered a powerful message about the continent’s creative renaissance. Drawing from his experience as a three-time best DJ of the year at the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards, emphasized that African talent is no longer confined by geography or outdated industry gatekeepers.
“We’re no longer just telling our stories to ourselves,” DJ Vyrusky said. “African DJs, musicians, and creators are now telling our stories to the world, and the world is listening. Technology and global platforms have broken down the barriers. Now, it’s about collaboration, business acumen, and believing in the value of our culture.”
He highlighted how digital distribution, streaming, and international festivals have made it possible for African music and art to reach everywhere, creating new revenue streams and partnerships that were previously unimaginable.
After winning Ghana DJ Awards, Vyrusky has been instrumental in forging sponsorships and cross industry collaborations, further fueling the continent’s creative growth.
I had the opportunity to share the main stage @sxswlndn with @Idriselba4bond Kojo owusu, Clara Amfo and @stefanschwart10 to talk about how the creative industry now unlocks new economic opportunities for African creators to compete globally. #theakunagroup pic.twitter.com/tP9gk6Sh14
— DJ VYRUSKY (KREW) (@djvyrusky) June 6, 2025
The panel discussion, set against the backdrop of fractured global systems and widening inequality, underscored the idea that creativity is more than self expression, it’s a ticket, a currency, and a catalyst for real economic and social transformation.
DJ Vyrusky stressed that when African creators are empowered with the right resources and platforms, they don’t just compete they set new trends.
“Africa’s youth are the heartbeat of the future,” he said in the session’s most replayed video moment. “If we invest in their creativity, we’re not just changing individual lives, we’re building industries, creating jobs, and redefining Africa’s place in the global economy.”
The SXSW London event, while receiving mixed reviews for its overall programming, was widely recognized for its high profile speakers and its focus on the intersection of technology, creativity, and economic opportunity.
DJ Vyrusky’s contributions resonated as a rallying call for African creators to seize the moment, leverage digital tools, and build lasting global influence.
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