Why Investing in Emerging Talent Might Be the Smartest Move in the Arts and Any Field
- Malena Amusa
- Sep 9, 2025
- 3 min read
As a driven Artsy-Preneur and community developer, one of my greatest passions has been identifying, mentoring, and recruiting emerging talent. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how seeing, connecting with, and affirming emerging talent is key to helping individuals develop skills into fully-fledged careers and businesses—be it in the arts or any other field.
In my work as Founder and Global Program Developer for Addlife! African Dance Company, I had the privilege of mentoring more than 30 artists and professionals—from visual artists and musicians to doctoral students. My role was often part coach, part connector: spotting potential, cultivating confidence, and linking people to stages, classrooms, and networks where their gifts could shine. Many of them have gone on to lead and innovate in their fields, and watching that growth has been nothing short of inspiring.
The Ripple Effect of Mentoring Emerging Talent
Research supports this. According to a report by Americans for the Arts, investment in the creative sector generates over $151 billion annually in economic activity in the U.S. alone, while also sustaining 4.6 million jobs. The ripple effect is undeniable: when emerging artists and professionals are nurtured, their growth contributes to community wealth, job creation, and cultural vibrancy. In fact, studies from the National Endowment for the Arts highlight that individuals who receive mentorship and structured opportunities in the arts are significantly more likely to transition into leadership roles across industries—proving that early investment in talent pays off many times over. This is sure the case in the Arts, and in any field.
Another key part of my leadership has been designing and implementing over 100 arts programs across cultural centers and schools in the U.S., Africa, and India. These initiatives have highlighted the importance of recruiting new and emerging talent, especially youth. Global education and workforce reports show that youth engagement in arts and culture is directly linked to higher academic performance, improved mental health, and greater career readiness. Now, that's an investment I'm excited to make!
Being the Eyes and Ears to a Vision Yet Discovered
This year, I created Artsy-Preneur, to expand the mission of supporting visionaries in maximizing impact, economically, socially, and generationally. And our philosophy is clear: Artsy-Preneur is about being the eyes and ears to see what people often can’t see as they hustle to serve and thrive. We provide that focused time to identify strengths, uncover opportunities, review ambitions, and strategize a clear path forward. Sometimes, it’s as simple as shifting perspective.
I’ll never forget one of my students at the University of California, Riverside, where I taught dance, who approached me distressed, unable to decide between his ambition to be a doctor and his desire to be a professional dancer. After hearing him out for five minutes, I simply leaned in and said, “That’s so interesting. Why don’t you do both?” His light bulb went off, and he skipped away with a new sense of direction and strength.
On a larger scale, we have the power to do this for all the people who come to us—to provide support, insight, and inspiration..
✨ That’s exactly why Artsy-Preneur exists — to be that support, strategy, and community for you. If you’re ready to nourish your vision and take the next step, I invite you to explore our:
Let’s grow, launch, and shine — together.
Malena Amusa is the CEO and Founder of Artsy-Preneur.com, a business and marketing incubator helping your big ideas achieve maximum impact through coaching, workshops, and powerful learning experiences. A pro journalist, educator, comms strategist, serial entrepreneur, and former nationally-touring dancer, Malena has reached millions globally, helping small and mega firms transform their marketing, engagement strategy, and messaging to advance new market share, embolden brand leadership, and fuel sales and growth. Malena is based in St. Louis, Mo., serving the world.
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