Music classes for underprivileged communities

Salem Academy of Music was founded in 2004 by four members of the Apostolic Faith Mission UK: Reverend Victor Okusanya, Saula Ogunkoya, Solomon Oshun, and Godwin Okusanya. The founders shared a vision of providing structured music education for children and young people within their community.

The church has a strong musical heritage rooted in the traditions of the Apostolic Faith Mission, whose origins trace back to Portland, Oregon (USA) and Nigeria, where music has long played a central role in worship, education, and community life.

Initially, the founders sought to partner with existing music schools within the borough so that children and young people from the church could learn to play musical instruments. However, during discussions with one of the schools, it was suggested that the community establish its own programme, particularly as more than 50 children and young people already owned instruments and were eager to learn. This encouragement led to the creation of Salem Academy of Music.

Since then, the organisation has grown significantly and now focuses on developing young people from a wide range of backgrounds within the community, regardless of religious belief. Based in an area recognised as being among the most deprived in the country, our aim is to make high-quality musical tuition accessible and affordable, particularly for young people from low-income families and those who are underprivileged or underrepresented within the community and across London.

Today, Salem Academy of Music continues to build on its founding vision by providing inclusive music education that nurtures talent, builds confidence, and develops valuable musical and life skills. Through this work, we aim to support greater social mobility, enabling young people to realise their potential and pursue opportunities in further education, training, and potential careers within and beyond the music sector, while becoming confident and positive contributors to their communities.