We are proud to announce EMB’s R.O.Z as a recipient of the 2025 Ontario Arts Council Chalmers Arts Fellowship, a prestigious opportunity awarded to Canadian artists who have made a significant impact in the Canadian arts scene and have over 10 years of experience in their craft. The fellowship supports established artists at pivotal moments in their careers, providing dedicated time and resources to focus on growth, research, and artistic development.

Through this fellowship, R.O.Z will spend extensive time in West Africa (Ghana and Nigeria) throughout the year, immersing himself in creative spaces that continue to shape the global soundscape. During this period, he will participate in industry events, workshops, cultural gatherings, visit historic landmarks and connect with locals, building relationships with artists, cultural leaders and townsfolk while gaining firsthand insight into how music moves within their communities day to day.

This time abroad will deepen his connection to his cultural roots and further strengthen the bridge between West Africa and Afro-Canadian music which he and EMB have helped to pioneer in Canada. The fellowship not only recognizes R.O.Z’s longstanding work and contributions to music and culture, but also affirms his continued commitment to pushing the Afro sound and culture forward.

EMB and R.O.Z would like to extend special recognition and thanks to the Government of Ontario, MP Scott Davidson, the Ontario Arts Council, and the Chalmers Arts Fellowship Fund for their continued support in developing and growing artistic excellence across Canada.

*Project updates and a gallery will be posted here as they become available (mid 2026).