Understanding who owns a song after it has been written, performed, and recorded can be challenging even for adults. Yet in an era where young people are creating and sharing content more than ever before, knowledge of copyright and creative ownership has become increasingly important.
Music rights consultant, author, and entrepreneur Sakhele Mzalazala is seeking to bridge that knowledge gap through his new educational book, What is Copyright? Our Song, a publication designed to introduce children and young people to the fundamentals of copyright, intellectual property, and music rights.
Using storytelling, relatable characters, and engaging illustrations, the book simplifies concepts that are often viewed as complex and difficult to understand. It aims to help readers develop an appreciation for creative ownership while encouraging them to think critically about the value of original work.
Targeted at primary school learners, music students, young adults, and even adults with limited knowledge of copyright law, the book addresses an important educational need within the creative sector. By presenting legal and industry concepts in an accessible format, Mzalazala hopes to empower future generations of artists, creators, and entrepreneurs with the tools they need to protect their work.
According to Mzalazala, educating children about intellectual property should begin long before they enter the professional world. He believes that understanding ownership, authorship, and creative rights at an early age can help prevent many of the challenges artists face later in their careers.
“This book is more than just a publication; it is a movement,” he said.
“We cannot continue to wait until artists are adults before teaching them about their rights. The future belongs to our children, and it is time for them to understand the value of creativity and ownership from an early age. In fact, it is time for our children to teach us and help protect the creative industries for generations to come.”
The publication arrives at a time when conversations around intellectual property, digital content, and creative rights are becoming increasingly relevant. With music, videos, artwork, and other forms of content being shared instantly online, creators face growing challenges in protecting their work and ensuring they receive proper recognition and compensation.
For many years, artists across various creative industries have spoken about the difficulties they encountered after entering the entertainment business without a clear understanding of copyright, publishing rights, royalties, and licensing agreements. Mzalazala argues that these issues can be addressed through education and awareness from an early stage.
Published independently through SM Communications, What is Copyright? Our Song has been completed and is ready for printing and distribution. The book combines education with entertainment, encouraging readers to actively participate in the learning process rather than simply reading the material.
Children are invited to act out characters, engage with interactive scenarios, and explore real-world examples that demonstrate how creative ownership works. This hands-on approach is intended to make learning both memorable and enjoyable while helping young readers build confidence in their understanding of copyright principles.
Beyond its educational value, the book also highlights the importance of respecting the work of others and recognising creativity as a valuable asset. By introducing these concepts early, Mzalazala hopes to nurture a generation that is better equipped to navigate the creative economy and contribute positively to the growth of the arts and entertainment sectors.
As discussions around intellectual property continue to evolve in the digital age, What is Copyright? Our Song offers a timely and innovative resource that seeks to make copyright education accessible to all, starting with the youngest members of society.
