A Kenyan student from the UK has received a $50,000 (Ksh6.9 million) grant to build a music studio and nightclub using abandoned shipping containers in Nairobi, in a development that sparked interest among Kenyans. Mr Jesse Mugambi, who is studying a Masters in Sustainable Design at the University of Brighton, has won an international competition to support his nightlife project.
Jesse’s project, named Studio Can-V, aims to transform these discarded containers into a dynamic space that can serve as a music studio during the day and transform into a lively nightclub at night. The construction of this mobile sound studio will involve local Nairobi artisans using sustainable materials such as repurposed shipping containers from the Port of Mombasa and locally sourced renewable resources.
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Mr Mugambi beat 300 contestant from 50 countries to become joint winner of Jagermeister alcohol company’s Save the Night competition. He earned $109,000 (Ksh15 million prize will be shared with another winner from Northern Ireland, who will receive $50,000 (KSh6.9 million).
Currently pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Brighton, he devised the concept known as Studio Can-V, which aims to build a versatile area that at night may change from a studio for aspiring DJs to a club.
The mobile sound studio will be built using recycled shipping containers by local artisans in Nairobi, Kenya. The containers will be transported from the Port of Mombasa and the building will be done using renewable materials such as steel pipes for structural support.
Architecturally Sustainable
These, along with aluminium door panels, will be provided through a supplier in Nairobi.
Studio Can-V will be designed as a flexible space that transitions seamlessly from a daytime hub for young DJs to a vibrant nightclub, fostering a sense of community and creativity among Nairobi’s youth.
“When I was young and struggled to pursue my passion for music, I was drawn to the belief that there were millions of people, young and old, yearning for a chance to quench their musical itch,” Rookie DJ Mugambi said. “My goal is to establish an environment where students feel free to express their creativity and fulfil their artistic aspirations.”
Through this project, Mr Mugambi hope to emphasize the perspectives of young DJs from many groups and backgrounds who reflect the future of an equitable society and to depict a contemporary Kenyan identity that values diversity. “We are working with faculty at the University of Brighton to ensure our plans are socially and architecturally sustainable,” he said.
Kai Dehsling, Jagermeister’s Director of Global Culture and Experience Marketing, praised successful projects in Kenya and Northern Ireland that focus on creating inclusive and safe nightlife spaces that promote self-expression and positive social development. “This space of freedom creates a sanctuary,” says Dehsling. “Two projects in Kenya and Northern Ireland are addressing important socio-political issues and actively promoting nightlife in a positive way.”
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