Kakuma Studios: the first recording studio in UNHCR - fostering hope with music and blockchain

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Sunny Basra

[GENERAL] Email address of main applicant

sunny@soundrig.io

Additional applicants

Abedi Kalambi Alain

Robert Kamanzi Simenya

Dr Simon Otieno

Quintin Bray-Stone

Simon Davey

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

12

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language.

No

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependencies.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

No

[GENERAL] If NO, please describe which outputs are not going to be open source. If YES, please write “Project will be fully open source.”

The nature of this initiative is intrinsically not open source as it's a physical location within a refugee camp that is exclusively for the use of the impoverished youth who live there.

[METADATA] Category of proposal

Incubation

[METADATA] SDG rating

As the first project of the SoundRig initiative, Project: SIMBA, this proposal seeks to make a significant impact in line with the following UN SDGs;

4 - Quality Education: Through our partnership with Dr. Simon Otieno, lecturer at the University of Nairobi, we will be able to create opportunities for the youth of Kakuma Refugee Camp to learn and gain skills to elevate themselves out of poverty.

8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth: We will be creating employment opportunities directly in the establishment of a professional music studio, in addition to training young people in the creative arts so they can produce music and content to be sold as NFTs on Cardano. This will be a new catalyst for economic growth in this refugee camp.

9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: We're addressing this SDG by building a music studio in a refugee camp (the first in the world, ever) and then training the population on utilising this to produce creative arts (music and film) to be then developed on the Cardano blockchain. This will be the first of many community-powered projects as we learn and develop from each one, starting here.

10 - Reduced Inequalities: The core principle of this project is to build facilities that create equal opportunities in an industry (music) that rarely affords such to people from areas of economic poverty. This is a huge focus of SoundRig, and therefore, Project: SIMBA.

11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities: The "Kakuma Studios" will be a self-sustaining social impact enterprise. Our overarching aim is to prove it can be done, and then continue to replicate a proven, working system in all areas that need it around the world.

17 - Partnerships for the goals: Project: SIMBA means Social Impact through Media Business Alliances. A foundational pillar of our existence is directly related to this vital SDG.

[IMPACT] Please describe your proposed solution.

https://youtu.be/lkbpErWKBU0

Our proposed solution is to establish Kakuma Studios, the world's first recording studio in a refugee camp. We aim to address the lack of access to professional recording facilities for talented artists in Kakuma Refugee Camp. By providing a fully equipped studio, we will empower aspiring musicians, promote artistic expression, and preserve diverse cultures. Our solution engages the talented youth and adolescent artists in the camp, offering them opportunities for personal and economic development.

What makes our solution unique is the integration of blockchain technology, specifically leveraging Cardano's capabilities and the community. This ensures transparent and secure distribution and sales of music through the SoundRig platform. The benefits of our solution extend beyond the immediate impact on the artists themselves. It showcases Cardano's commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and social transformation. By demonstrating the potential of blockchain in unlocking opportunities and uplifting marginalized communities, we contribute to the growth and relevance of the Cardano ecosystem in areas that would normally be impossible to grow.

[IMPACT] How does your proposed solution address the challenge and what benefits will this bring to the Cardano ecosystem?

Our proposed solution, Kakuma Studios, directly aligns with Cardano's vision of driving positive social impact through technology. By establishing the world's first recording studio in a refugee camp, we address the challenge of limited access to professional recording facilities for talented artists in Kakuma Refugee Camp, and the challenge of inclusion to blockchain technology for marginalised communities. To be clear, Project: SIMBA is the community-powered social impact "movement" pioneered by SoundRig; and "Kakuma Studios" will be its first initiative. We believe this belongs to everyone, and should be a shared achievement.

The project's impact extends beyond funding the project team. It brings value to the Cardano ecosystem by showcasing the real-world application of blockchain technology in empowering marginalized communities. It serves as a testament to Cardano's commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and cultural preservation.

In terms of quantifiable impact, we anticipate the project to attract a significant number of users to the Cardano ecosystem. There are approximately 250,000 residents, with the majority being young people. The establishment of Kakuma Studios will create a hub for music enthusiasts and creatives within the camp, fostering a vibrant and engaged community. We expect a substantial increase in the usage of the SoundRig platform for the distribution and sales of music, resulting in a surge of transactions and a growing user base.

Furthermore, the project will contribute to the overall strength of the Cardano ecosystem by highlighting the transformative potential of blockchain technology. It serves as a tangible example of how Cardano can empower individuals, drive economic stability, and promote cultural understanding. The success of Kakuma Studios will inspire similar initiatives, expanding the reach and impact of Cardano's ecosystem.

While it is challenging to provide precise numerical projections, we are confident that the establishment of Kakuma Studios will attract a significant number of users and drive a substantial increase in usage and transactions within a reasonable timeframe. The project's success will serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of technology to bring about positive change in the lives of marginalized communities and reinforcing Cardano's position as a leader in the blockchain industry.

[IMPACT] How do you intend to measure the success of your project?

To ensure the credibility and independence of our impact assessment, we have partnered with Sustainable ADA. As an independent body, Sustainable ADA will be responsible for collecting and reporting on the project's findings periodically and throughout its duration. Their expertise in impact measurement and evaluation will provide objective insights into the project's progress, outcomes, and alignment with the goals of the Cardano ecosystem.

Internally, we have a comprehensive plan in place to measure the success of our project and assess its benefits for the Cardano ecosystem. Our approach includes both quantitative and qualitative metrics to provide a holistic understanding of the project's impact.

To measure the project's benefits for the Cardano ecosystem, we will track key metrics such as:

1. User Engagement: We will monitor the number of artists and users actively utilizing Kakuma Studios and the SoundRig platform. This will include measuring the frequency of music uploads, downloads, and transactions, as well as user feedback and engagement.
2. Community Growth: We will assess the growth of the artist community within the Kakuma Refugee Camp and its integration into the broader Cardano ecosystem. This will involve tracking the number of new artists joining the platform, collaborations formed, and participation in community events.
3. Economic Impact: We will evaluate the economic empowerment of the artists by measuring their earnings and income generated through music sales and performances. This will provide insights into the project's ability to drive financial stability and economic growth within the camp.
4. Cultural Preservation: We will assess the preservation and promotion of diverse cultures by monitoring the production and distribution of traditional music and art forms through Kakuma Studios. This will involve gathering qualitative feedback from artists and users about the cultural significance and representation achieved.

In terms of Cardano's productivity and growth, the innovation of Kakuma Studios will have both short-term and long-term effects. In the short term, it will drive increased usage of the Cardano blockchain through transactions related to music distribution and sales. This will contribute to network activity and stimulate economic growth within the ecosystem.

In the long term, the success of Kakuma Studios will enhance Cardano's reputation as a platform for social impact initiatives and demonstrate its scalability and versatility in addressing real-world challenges. The project will attract more users to the Cardano ecosystem, including artists, music enthusiasts, and individuals interested in supporting philanthropic endeavors. This increased user base will foster network effects, driving further adoption and creating a thriving ecosystem of diverse applications and use cases.

By measuring the project's impact through various metrics and engaging an independent organization like Sustainable ADA, we are confident in our ability to provide realistic and transparent assessments of the project's benefits for the Cardano ecosystem.

[IMPACT] Please describe your plans to share the outputs and results of your project?

We are committed to maximizing the impact of our project by effectively sharing its outputs and results with a wide range of stakeholders. Our comprehensive plan includes the following strategies to ensure the dissemination and utilization of our project's outcomes:

1. Communication and Dissemination: We will actively communicate the progress, achievements, and outcomes of our project through various channels. This includes regular updates on our website, social media platforms, and newsletters. We will also leverage partnerships with relevant organizations, such as Sustainable ADA and Colour the Blockchain, to amplify our message and reach a wider audience.
2. Community Engagement: We will engage directly with the Cardano community, artists, and users through interactive platforms, such as online forums, webinars, and workshops. These engagements will provide opportunities to share project outputs, gather feedback, and foster collaboration.
3. Partnerships and Collaborations: We will actively seek partnerships and collaborations with organizations and institutions that align with our mission and can help us amplify the impact of our project. This includes working with music industry stakeholders, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations to leverage their networks and resources.
4. Research and Development: The results generated from our project will serve as valuable insights and data for further research and development activities. We will analyze the outcomes, identify best practices, and contribute to the knowledge base in the fields of blockchain technology, social impact, and refugee empowerment. These findings will be disseminated through academic publications, industry conferences, and collaborations with research institutions.
5. Long-Term Sustainability: We will develop a sustainability plan to ensure the continued availability and accessibility of the project outputs. This includes exploring avenues for long-term funding, establishing partnerships for ongoing support, and empowering the local community to take ownership of the project.

By implementing these strategies, we aim to spread the outputs and impact of our project over a reasonable timescale. We will engage with the Cardano community, relevant stakeholders, and the broader public to create awareness and generate opportunities that arise from our completed project. The results generated from our project will not only contribute to the immediate goals of empowering artists in the Kakuma Refugee Camp but also serve as a valuable resource for future research, development, and social impact initiatives.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability?

We have a highly capable team in place that is well-suited to deliver this project with a strong focus on trust and accountability. Our team consists of Abedi Alain, a dedicated social worker and resident of Kakuma, who brings extensive knowledge and understanding of the community. We also have Robert Kamanzi Simenya, a former resident of Kakuma who has excelled as a musician and music entrepreneur, garnering recognition and awards in the industry.

Our team's capabilities are demonstrated through their deep connection to the community and their personal experiences in the music industry. Abedi Alain's background in social work ensures that the project is executed with a holistic approach, addressing the needs and aspirations of the residents in Kakuma. Robert Kamanzi Simenya's expertise in music and entrepreneurship brings valuable insights to the project's management and ensures a strategic and sustainable approach.

To ensure proper management of funds, we have established a transparent financial process. This includes setting up a dedicated project account using Qredo wallet (where all funds will be deposited and managed) to especially assist in off-ramping into local currency or US dollars. Qredo Wallet is the creation of Rodney Prescott, a team member of the Cardano Foundation and advisor to SoundRig. We will maintain detailed records of all financial transactions and provide regular financial reports to stakeholders. Additionally, we will adhere to established financial management best practices and ensure compliance with any legal and regulatory requirements.

We understand the importance of trust and accountability in delivering a successful project, and our team is committed to upholding these values throughout the entire process.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What are the main goals for the project and how will you validate if your approach is feasible?

The main goals for our project are as follows:

1. Establish Kakuma Studios: Our primary objective is to successfully establish Kakuma Studios, the world's first recording studio in a refugee camp. This involves setting up the physical infrastructure, acquiring the necessary equipment, and creating a conducive environment for artistic expression and collaboration.
2. Empower and uplift refugee artists: We aim to provide a platform for talented refugee artists in Kakuma to unleash their creativity, develop their skills, and share their unique stories and perspectives with the world. Our goal is to empower these artists and provide them with opportunities for personal growth and economic sustainability.
3. Promote cultural diversity and understanding: We seek to promote cultural diversity and understanding by showcasing the rich and diverse musical traditions present in the Kakuma Refugee Camp. Through the music produced at Kakuma Studios, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for different cultures and challenge stereotypes associated with refugees.
4. Enhance global recognition for Cardano: By leveraging the power of blockchain technology in the distribution and monetization of music, we aim to showcase the capabilities of Cardano and its potential to drive positive social impact. This project demonstrates Cardano's commitment to inclusive innovation and its ability to create meaningful opportunities for marginalized communities.
5. Build the Cardano Community: Through the love of music and creativity; we aim to support the adoption of the technology and ecosystem by onboarding a minimum of 1 million new people in the next 5 years.

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will employ several measures:

1. Successful establishment and operation of Kakuma Studios: We will track the progress of setting up the physical infrastructure, acquiring the necessary equipment, and ensuring the smooth operation of the studio. This includes meeting milestones within the proposed timeline and ensuring the studio is fully functional.
2. Participation and engagement of refugee artists: We will measure the level of participation and engagement of refugee artists in utilizing Kakuma Studios. This includes the number of artists utilizing the studio, the diversity of musical genres represented, and the quality and quantity of music produced.
3. Economic empowerment of artists: We will evaluate the economic impact on participating artists by monitoring their ability to generate income through the distribution and sales of their music. This includes tracking their earnings, improvement in their living conditions, and potential collaborations and opportunities that arise as a result of their involvement with Kakuma Studios.
4. Global reach and recognition: We will measure the reach and impact of the music produced at Kakuma Studios by monitoring metrics such as online streaming and downloads, media coverage, and audience engagement. This will help us assess the extent to which the project achieves its goal of promoting cultural diversity and enhancing global recognition for Cardano.

Through diligent monitoring and evaluation, we will continuously assess the progress and impact of the project, making adjustments as necessary to ensure the achievement of our goals.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please provide a detailed breakdown of your project’s milestones and each of the main tasks or activities to reach the milestone plus the expected timeline for the delivery.

Milestone 1: Establish entity, Secure Physical Infrastructure, and Recruitment of Studio Staff

• Activities: Business permit and company registration, Secure a suitable location, set up the physical infrastructure of Kakuma Studios, recruit and hire qualified staff members, including a studio manager, music producers, security guards, and a studio cleaner. Provide necessary training and onboarding.
• Timeline: 1 month
• Success Criteria: Completion of studio setup, functional equipment in place, and readiness for artists to utilize the facilities.

Milestone 2: Equipment Acquisition - In Partnership with Color the Blockchain

• Activities: Acquire necessary equipment such as Studio equipment (laptops, microphones, studio monitors, etc)
• Timeline: 1 month
• Success Criteria: Color The Blockchain will be responsible for confirming all is ready to go.

Milestone 3: Installation, Training of Studio Staff, Launch of Kakuma Studios and Artist Engagement - To be delivered by Color the Blockchain

• Activities: Delivery and installation of studio equipment, Training, Official launch of Kakuma Studios, facilitating artists' engagement with the studio. Provide orientation and support to artists.
• Timeline: 2 month
• Success Criteria: Official launch of Kakuma Studios, active participation of refugee artists, and initial recording sessions taking place.

Milestone 4: Production and Distribution of Music

• Activities: Support and mentor artists in producing high-quality music. Facilitate the distribution and sales of music through blockchain technology and the SoundRig platform.
• Timeline: 8 months and beyond!
• Success Criteria: Regular production and release of music by refugee artists, successful distribution, and monetization of their work.

Milestone 5: Impact Evaluation and Reporting - to be independently verified by Sustainable ADA.

• Activities: Conduct regular evaluations of the project's impact on artists, the community, and the Cardano ecosystem. Collect and analyze data, and produce comprehensive reports.
• Timeline: Ongoing throughout the project
• Success Criteria: Regular evaluation reports produced, demonstrating the project's impact and progress.

Project Implementation Plan:

1. Project Initiation: Confirm project objectives, establish a project team, and secure necessary resources and partnerships.
2. Planning: Develop a detailed project plan, including milestones, tasks, timelines, and resource allocation. Define project roles and responsibilities.
3. Execution: Implement the project plan, carry out the activities identified in each milestone, and ensure effective coordination among team members and stakeholders.
4. Monitoring and Control: Regularly monitor project progress, track milestones, and manage any deviations or issues. Conduct ongoing evaluation and reporting.
5. Closure: Celebrate the achievements of the project, finalize documentation, conduct final evaluations, and ensure a smooth transition of project deliverables.

The project will be managed through a combination of in-person and remote collaboration, utilizing communication tools and project management software. Regular meetings and progress updates will be conducted to ensure effective communication and alignment among team members.

Throughout the project, we will adhere to transparent financial management practices, maintaining accurate records of expenses, and ensuring proper accountability and stewardship of funds. We will provide regular financial reports and audits as required.

By following this detailed plan and employing efficient project management practices, we are confident in our capability to successfully implement the project and achieve the stated milestones.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please describe the deliverables, outputs and intended outcomes of each milestone.

Milestone 1: Establish Physical Infrastructure, Equipment Acquisition & Delivery

• Deliverables: Fully functional recording studio setup in Kakuma Refugee Camp, including a well-equipped physical space, recording devices, microphones, studio monitors, and other necessary equipment.
• Outputs: Completed studio infrastructure, installed equipment, and a secure and conducive environment for artists to record their music.
• Intended Outcomes: Provide refugee artists with a professional studio facility to create and produce high-quality music, fostering artistic expression and empowerment.
• Measurement: Progress will be tracked by the completion of physical infrastructure setup, equipment acquisition, and the readiness of the studio for artist utilization.

Milestone 2: Recruitment and Training of Studio Staff

• Deliverables: Fully staffed studio team consisting of a studio manager, music producers, security guards, and a studio cleaner.
• Outputs: Hired and trained staff members who possess the necessary expertise and skills to effectively manage the studio and support the artists.
• Intended Outcomes: Ensure a competent and dedicated team to oversee the day-to-day operations of Kakuma Studios and provide guidance and support to the artists.
• Measurement: Successful recruitment and onboarding of qualified staff members within the specified timeline.

Milestone 3: Launch of Kakuma Studios and Artist Engagement

• Deliverables: Official launch event for Kakuma Studios, artist orientation, and engagement materials, and artist participation agreements.
• Outputs: Active participation of refugee artists in utilizing the studio for recording sessions, increased awareness and interest in Kakuma Studios within the refugee community.
• Intended Outcomes: Establish Kakuma Studios as a recognized and respected creative hub within the refugee camp, offering opportunities for artistic expression and collaboration.
• Measurement: Successful launch event, signed artist participation agreements, and regular artist engagement with the studio.

Milestone 4: Production and Distribution of Music

• Deliverables: Recorded music tracks, produced and mixed by the artists in Kakuma Studios. Music distribution and sales are facilitated through the SoundRig platform and blockchain technology.
• Outputs: High-quality music releases, accessible and monetizable through digital platforms.
• Intended Outcomes: Enable refugee artists to showcase their talent, reach a wider audience, and generate income through their music. Demonstrate the potential of blockchain technology and Cardano's ecosystem in empowering artists and enabling financial inclusion.
• Measurement: Number of music tracks produced, successful distribution and monetization of the music, feedback, and engagement from listeners, and the music industry.

Milestone 5: Impact Evaluation and Reporting

• Deliverables: Evaluation reports documenting the impact of the project on artists, the community, and the Cardano ecosystem. Financial reports and audits as required.
• Outputs: Comprehensive analysis of the project's impact, including artist testimonials, community feedback, and financial transparency.
• Intended Outcomes: Assess the effectiveness of Kakuma Studios in supporting refugee artists, promoting cultural exchange, and contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the Cardano ecosystem.
• Measurement: Regular evaluation reports, financial reports, qualitative feedback from artists and community members, and quantitative metrics such as the number of artists engaged, music sales, and audience reach.

The progress of the project will be measured through a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators, including the completion of deliverables, artist participation, music production, distribution metrics, feedback from artists and listeners, financial transparency, and the overall impact on the Cardano ecosystem. Regular reporting and evaluations will provide a comprehensive view of the project's progress, allowing for adjustments and improvements as needed.

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] Please provide a detailed budget breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

The Assistant Project Manager Abedi has prepared a report on the feasibility of Kakuma Studios.

The total cost for the creation and launch of Kakuma Studios will be $57,500, and divided into the following tasks.

Budget Breakdown:

Milestone 1: Establish Physical Infrastructure and Equipment Acquisition (Color the Blockchain)

• Studio Infrastructure, delivery/logistics, and Setup: $20,000
• Equipment (microphones, studio monitors, acoustic treatment, etc.): $5,000
• Total Cost: $25,000

Milestone 2: Recruitment and Training of Studio Staff

• Studio Manager Salary: $3,600 per annum
• Assistant Studio Manager Salary: $3,000 per annum
• x3 Security Guards Salary: $3,600 per annum (each)
• Studio Cleaner Salary: $1,800 per annum
• Videographer + Video Editor: $2,400 per annum (each)
• Total Cost: $24,000 per annum

Milestone 3: Launch of Kakuma Studios and Artist Engagement

• Launch Event: $2,500
• Publicity/Marketing/Promotion: $2,000
• Artist Orientation and Engagement Materials: $500
• Artist Participation Agreements: $Free (covered by SoundRig)
• Total Cost: $5000

Milestone 4: Production and Distribution of Music

• Recording and Production Costs: $FREE (covered by salaries)
• Music Distribution and Blockchain Integration: $FREE (covered by SoundRig)
• Total Cost: $0

Milestone 5: Impact Evaluation and Reporting

• Evaluation and Reporting Costs: $2,000
• Financial Reporting and Audits: $1,500
• Total Cost: $3,500 (for Sustainable ADA)

Total Project Cost: ~$57,500

The budget breakdown includes the costs associated with each milestone and other necessary elements for successful project implementation. It covers the physical infrastructure, equipment acquisition, staffing, launch event, artist engagement, music production and distribution, impact evaluation, reporting, publicity/marketing/promotion, project management, documentation, and reporting back to the community.

The project team will diligently manage the funds provided and ensure transparency and accountability in all financial matters. Any excess funding beyond the requested amount will be used to enhance the project's impact, support additional activities, or serve as contingency funds if necessary.

Please note that the budget breakdown provided is an estimate and is subject to change based on actual costs, market conditions, and any unforeseen circumstances. The project team will carefully monitor expenses and make adjustments as needed to maximize the value for money and ensure efficient resource utilization.

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The cost of the project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem in several ways. Firstly, the costs have been carefully assessed and allocated to ensure optimal utilization of resources while delivering the desired outcomes. The budget breakdown takes into account the specific needs of the project, including infrastructure setup, equipment acquisition, staffing, artist engagement, music production and distribution, impact evaluation, and more.

The costs have been determined based on a combination of factors. In the case of infrastructure and equipment, market research and price comparisons were conducted to ensure competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards. Staff salaries were determined in alignment with industry standards and considering the local context of the refugee camp.

Furthermore, the costs are justified by the potential positive impact and value that the project will bring to the Cardano ecosystem. By establishing Kakuma Studios, we create a platform for talented artists to express themselves, promote cultural diversity, and generate economic opportunities within the refugee camp. The project aligns with Cardano's mission of empowering individuals and fostering inclusivity.

Additionally, the project represents value for money by leveraging partnerships with Sustainable ADA and Colour the Blockchain. These collaborations allow for data collection, impact assessment, and reporting, ensuring transparency and accountability in measuring the project's outcomes.

Overall, the costs associated with the project are proportionate to the benefits and impact it aims to achieve. The careful allocation of resources, adherence to industry standards, and focus on delivering meaningful outcomes demonstrate the value for money that the project offers to the Cardano ecosystem.

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agreed to Fund10 rules and also that data in the Submission Form and other data provided by the project team during the course of the project will be publicly available.

I Accept