The EIB Institute is delighted to support the second edition of Opera for Peace Academy (to be held in Paris between 13-20 April) as part of its commitment to develop life skills and raise awareness of the business community and society at large about the vital role of artists as social entrepreneurs and peace ambassadors.

This one-of-a-kind programme will offer 13 emerging opera singers the opportunity to find and develop their unique artistic identity  as well as the life-skills needed for their career.

It offers support, mentorship and empowerment to artists from disadvantaged backgrounds who don’t have ready access to career development and advancement opportunities, thus promoting social justice, equity and inclusion.

Out of 180 application from 48 countries, the Academy has selected 13 talents from 12 countries (including Ukraine, Iran and Russia) and five continents and will give them the tools to become self-sustainable professionals.

But the ambition is also to generate and empower social entrepreneurs and ambassadors for peace who will make an impact throughout the world, especially in their countries where other young people will see that becoming an artist is a possible option and a viable career path.

Master classes will be held by acclaimed artists such as acclaimed artists such as Sumi Jo, Thomas Hampson, Etienne Dupuis, Brian Jagde and Ailyn Pérez; seminars will be provided by professionals from different sectors focusing on an entire set of soft and hard skills such as auditions preparation and career management; relation with social media; empowerment for “citizen artists” and cultural ambassadors relevant to society.

Alongside the EIB, 18 partners collaborate with the Opera for Peace Academy, including La Ville de Paris, la Fondation BNP Paribas, Jeito Capital, Spencer Stuart and Opéra Comique.

Based in Rome, Opera for Peace is a cultural movement working in six continents and serving as a reference for young singers: connecting, supporting, and promoting these outstanding artists through its network of Opera for Peace partners, advisors, ambassadors, and emerging artists.