The 11th edition of the Back to the Roots Concert has rewarded emerging musicians and dancers for their creativity and performances, providing a platform for young talents to gain recognition and support their careers in Plateau State.
The talent hunt, which commenced on November 1 and ended with a grand finale on November 2, was held alongside the 11th Jos International Trade Fair. It brought together upcoming artistes and dancers to showcase their abilities in music and dance.
Among the participants were Esther, Skillful Rapking, Word Priest and 4TK, who demonstrated their talents during the competition.
At the grand finale, 4TK emerged winner, receiving a cash prize of ₦250,000. Skillful Rapking came second with ₦150,000, while Rap Priest finished third with ₦100,000. Esther the Dancer was also recognised and rewarded with ₦50,000.
Speaking after the competition, the Chief Executive Officer of Anista Marketing and Events Limited, Mrs Bolcit Barshep Amakiri, commended the participants, saying the initiative was designed to encourage young people and provide opportunities for emerging talents to develop.
Amakiri explained that the concert was introduced around 2016 as part of the company’s commitment to youth development and the promotion of creative talents.
“Anista Marketing and Events Limited is a youth-centred company. We decided to introduce the Back to the Roots Concert to encourage young people and create a platform where talented individuals can showcase their various abilities, be it music, dancing or poetry,” she said.
She urged young people to remain committed to their talents, noting that many only need the right platform, encouragement and exposure to reach their potential.
“I come across passionate young people every day, and all they need is a platform. If I am opportune to help them grow, encourage them and expose their talents, I will do that in my little way. We may not be the richest or most popular brand, but we are committed to contributing our quota to exposing young talents to the world,” she said.
The winner, 4TK, thanked the organisers for providing the platform and said he would use his ₦250,000 prize money to support his music career, particularly in promoting his work. He also expressed appreciation to his fans for their continued support.
Skillful Rapking, who emerged second, also commended Anista for the opportunity, disclosing that he would invest his ₦150,000 prize in completing his forthcoming extended play (EP), titled Beyond the Name.
Similarly, Rap Priest, who came third, expressed gratitude to the organisers, saying he would use his ₦100,000 prize to support preparations for the launch of his first book scheduled for November 14 at Junta, Jungle Ministry. The money, he said, would help him secure a venue and meet other logistical needs.
Esther the Dancer, who received ₦50,000 in recognition of her performance, also appreciated Anista for the gesture. She said she would invest the money in her tailoring business by purchasing a sewing machine to support her training.
