Aspiring country artists and industry hopefuls from across Canada are invited to apply for a new mentorship program to help them break into the business during Country Music Week in Kelowna this September.

The Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) and Creative Okanagan have teamed up to launch the first-ever Country Music Week Mentorship Program.

It offers an opportunity for participants to connect with established members in country music through one-on-one mentorship sessions. Mentees will have access to key behind-the-scenes events during Country Music Week, which runs Sept. 10–13.

“It’s a meaningful way to provide support…while also serving to educate and elevate emerging voices, celebrate the guidance of those helping to shape their path, and continue building a stronger future for country music together,” said Amy Jeninga, President of the CCMA.

Creative Okanagan Executive Director, Karma Lacoff Nieoczym, noted that the focus is on making career development more accessible to local talent.

“Leveraging the expertise of mentors who will be here for the CCMA’s holds so much value for our sector,” she added.

During Country Music Week selected applicants will take part in exclusive, industry-only events such as:

To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years old and legally able to work and live in Canada. 

Applications are open now until July 22 through the Creative Okanagan website.

Successful applicants will be notified on Aug. 8.

Kelowna was awarded the Canadian Country Music Awards in April 2024. It's the first time the city will host the event.