Global South African superstar Tyla is officially putting her success back into the community by championing the next wave of creative talent.
Also see: Tyla’s VMAs outfit sparks online debate over body shaming
Following a monumental year defined by critical acclaim and chart-topping international success, the Grammy Award-winning singer has announced the launch of the ‘That Girl’ Music Scholarship, a transformative initiative created in partnership with Epic Records.
Inside Tyla’s ‘That Girl’ scholarship initiative
Named after a standout track from her acclaimed sophomore album, A*POP, the scholarship programme is designed to lift financial barriers for aspiring young women pursuing higher education in music.
The initiative will award $5,000 (approximately R83,000) each to 10 deserving female students who demonstrate both financial need and outstanding academic excellence. True to her global footprint and deep roots, the distribution bridges international opportunity with local empowerment:
- Six scholarships are dedicated to students in the United States, prioritising applicants attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) such as Howard University, Spelman College, and Texas Southern University near select stops on her current tour.
- Four scholarships are proudly reserved for students right here in South Africa, providing critical financial backing for local youth chasing their musical dreams.
Beyond the direct monetary support, recipients will also receive an exclusive VIP tour experience, including concert tickets and an intimate meet-and-greet with Tyla herself.
Also see: Tyla wows in her latest magazine cover appearance
Cementing a legacy of women’s empowerment
Tyla’s latest philanthropic move aligns seamlessly with her vocal advocacy for sisterhood and representation in the global entertainment industry. Having famously declared that “the girls are dominating” on international red carpets, the hitmaker is turning that sentiment into actionable infrastructure.
By providing financial resources to young women navigating the rigorous demands of music degrees, Tyla is ensuring future artists have the backing they need to sustain and build upon the current wave of African excellence on the world stage.
Applications for the inaugural cohort are open and will close on 30 October 2026. For aspiring musicians across Mzansi and abroad, it marks an incredible opportunity to take a massive step forward under the mentorship of a generational icon.
Featured image: Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape
Also see: Tyla scores 2nd BET Soul Train nomination
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