He was thrilled when in 2020 he was accepted at the Harvard Business School. Award-winning musician and businessman Zakhele “Zakes Bantwini” Madida has finally completed the four-year-long program.
“Completing this executive education program at Harvard Business School is more than a personal achievement it’s a powerful statement about where African creatives belong,” he said. “In every global conversation, in every boardroom, and at every table where the future is being shaped. Bucket list checked.”
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When the award-winning musician and producer celebrated his 40th birthday, he was accepted into the world-renowned Harvard University to study the Business of Entertainment, Music, and Sport. Zakes mentioned that his 40th birthday is quite special since he has so much to be happy about, especially because he never thought he’d live past 25. He aims to use the knowledge obtained at Harvard to shape the African musical landscape. Zakes previously studied music at Natal Technikon (now Durban University of Technology) but didn’t complete his studies due to an injury. He later earned degrees in jazz and popular music from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and social entrepreneurship from the University of Pretoria. He also enrolled in Harvard Business School’s program in the business of entertainment, media, and sport.
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Zakes joined the likes of South African academic and former politician Lindiwe Mazibuko who went to Havard. He has always been a strong advocate for education, particularly for aspiring artists. He believes that while talent is important, formal education, especially in the business aspects of the music industry, is crucial for long-term success. He recently spoke out against celebrities who downplay the importance of education, emphasizing that it helps artists think differently and provides them with a valuable network.
Cece Smith 
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