[Mary Douglas emerged as last year’s ICONS winner, the competition’s youngest winner ever at age 16.]
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Vision Africa Radio, the widely anticipated ICONS Music Radio Reality Show has been expanded and renamed the Vision Africa Radio Talent Show to include artists in other genres, such as comedy and dance. Although the event is normally held in November, this year the Grand Finale is scheduled for December 8 to coincide with the observance of the radio station’s milestone of two decades of Christian broadcasting. This will mark the 11th year of the contest, which identifies, showcases, and mentors talented young people as part of VA’s focus on youth development and wider opportunities.
Previously, the contest focused solely on singers, and it has launched the musical careers of multiple winners of the show by connecting them to African-owned record labels and providing musical coaching and introductions to industry professionals and other artists. Each year, the contest attracts hundreds of applicants who move through a rigorous program of Orientation, Audition, Eviction, and Elimination, from which 10 finalists emerge to compete in the Grand Finale before judges and a live audience. Prior to the final, industry professionals guide the contestants through a mandatory three-day “camp” that includes both high-level training in their specialty, and also life skills, such as motivational training, wellness, and team building.
The Grand Finale is aired live on Vision Africa radio and streamed live on social media platforms. Judges decide the runners-up and the overall winner, who receives a financial gift as well as help in launching a professional career. The hugely popular contest draws a broad listening audience and demonstrates Vision Africa’s commitment to prepare the next generation for greater opportunities that improve the future –not just for the contestants, but for the wider population.
The contest also features the coveted Vision Africa Personality Awards, which recognize individuals and select institutions for community leadership, volunteer efforts, humanitarianism, and community engagement. Recipients of the Personality Awards are shining examples of Vision Africa’s mission of “igniting God’s light by sharing God’s love” in their daily lives.
If you would like to share in the Grand Finale, tune into LOVE 104.1FM via the internet on December 8. If you would like to help recognize and support these talented youths, click the Donate button below and, in the comments sections, mark your donation for “Radio Talent Show.”
The 2018 ICON, Queen Esther Douglas, relates her experiences after winning the competition and what Vision Africa means to her. Watch Queen Esther Douglas speak here!