Athi Umgido to Speak on African Kulture Panel at Music Exchange 2025

Cape Town, South Africa — Music Exchange 2025  #MEX25 is thrilled to announce that Athi Umgido, the visionary DJ, producer, and cultural trailblazer from East London, South Africa, will be joining the Africa Kulture Panel, where he will share insights on the evolution of AfroTech, Gqom, and Afro-House—and their growing influence on the global stage.

Athi Umgido’s name has become synonymous with innovation and authenticity in the African electronic music landscape.

 From his early days in Mdantsane, where he began his DJ career in 2006, to his current international acclaim, Athi has carved a unique sound that blends Afro-House rhythms with classic electro, creating an immersive sonic experience that transcends borders.

After relocating to Cape Town in 2016 and graduating from Bridges Academy in 2019, Athi quickly established himself as a forward-thinking force in the industry.

 As the resident DJ and producer for “The House Connect” on 5FM, he introduced listeners to groundbreaking new sounds while championing emerging talent.

Athi’s influence has also reached film and television, with his music featured in the popular Netflix series JIVA!, and his co-production on Busiswa’s SAMA-winning album further cemented his status as a creative powerhouse. 

He has graced stages across South Africa, including AfrikaBurn, where his Ubuhlanti Stage set was hailed as the festival’s best performance.

Beyond his artistry, Athi is the founder of BFM Records, an imprint born from the Bridges For Music initiative. Through BFM, he continues to nurture up-and-coming artists, creating pathways for young talent to thrive in the ever-evolving global music landscape. As the A&R and Content Manager for Bridges For Music, he remains deeply committed to empowering underrepresented voices and building sustainable creative ecosystems.

Athi’s recent European tour saw him performing at iconic venues such as Katerblau (Berlin), Garbicz Festival (Poland), and Wolvendoedel (Amsterdam), while collaborating in the studio with acclaimed producers Oliver Koletzki and Rodriguez Jr.

His growing international presence underscores his role as one of Africa’s leading musical ambassadors.

As Music Exchange continues to spotlight artists who are redefining culture through creativity and collaboration, Athi’s participation promises to deliver an inspiring and forward-looking perspective on Africa’s musical and cultural influence worldwide.