The Star Academy phenomenon has been a worldwide hit with competitions in England, Spain, Italy, Russia and many other countries. The show that discovered some of the world’s biggest talents such as UK’s R&B sensation Lemar, made a remarkable impact on Africa when Africa hosted the pan-African version, Project Fame.

Held in Johannesburg, South Africa from June to August 2004, the show had 16 African contestants - 9 of which were South African. The contestants were groomed for stardom, with the weakest being eliminated on a weekly basis; the top three received record deals and the winner got a lot more prizes.

Zambia’s Lindiwe Alam won the competition with Jonathan Ross (South Africa) and Dare Art Alade (Nigeria) coming second and third respectively. Although I haven’t heard much from Lindiwe since she won the contest, she had a wonderful voice and deserved to win. But I wish that Dare would have won or at least come second but we can’t have everything we wish for. An East African version called Tusker Project Fame also aired from October 1st to December 17 2006.

Well, Project Fame is back on the continent and this time it is solely for West Africa. The MTN Project Fame West Africa has arrived and it will be co-hosted by Dare Art Alade. So if you think you have the talent and you are well disciplined enough to undergo the rigorous tuition at the ‘Academy’, then this is your chance in a lifetime. Show Africa and the world what you are made of by signing up for auditions in a city near you. You can find all the details on the website. Good luck, and if you make it I will be here to highlight your high and low points. LOL!