MDLBEAST Foundation Shares Open Call for Mentorship Programme to Support Women in Music

Why It Matters

By expanding mentorship and advocacy, HUNNA tackles the gender gap in the regional music industry and builds a pipeline of female talent for long‑term ecosystem growth.

Key Takeaways

• HUNNA opens 2026 mentorship applications for mentees and mentors.
• Program has supported over 100 women across MENA since launch.
• New educational hub will provide learning resources and networking.
• Initiative now positions itself as gender‑balance advocacy platform.
• Alumni become mentors, driving a self‑sustaining community.

Pulse Analysis

Gender disparity remains a persistent challenge in the global music industry, and the MENA region is no exception. Initiatives like the MDLBEAST Foundation’s HUNNA programme address this gap by offering structured mentorship, masterclasses, and industry exposure to women artists and professionals. Since its inception, HUNNA has cultivated a cohort of more than 100 participants, providing them with the skills and networks needed to navigate a traditionally male‑dominated field. This hands‑on support not only accelerates individual careers but also signals a broader shift toward inclusivity.

The 2026 edition introduces an educational hub designed to serve as a permanent resource center. By aggregating curricula, workshops, and peer‑to‑peer learning, the hub creates a scalable model that can adapt to evolving industry demands. Coupled with a strategic pivot toward advocacy, HUNNA aims to influence event line‑ups, hiring practices, and policy discussions, fostering systemic change. Alumni who transition into mentor roles reinforce a virtuous cycle, ensuring knowledge transfer and community resilience without relying on external funding streams.

For the regional music market, the ripple effects are significant. Greater female participation can diversify creative output, attract new audiences, and stimulate investment in under‑represented genres. As more women assume leadership positions, the industry is likely to see improved governance, innovative collaborations, and a stronger talent pipeline. HUNNA’s expansion thus not only empowers individual artists but also enhances the competitive edge of the MENA music ecosystem on the global stage.