Deacon Steve Uzeh has revealed significant structural changes and innovative approaches that are propelling the International Shift Talent Hunt toward broader impact and global relevance.
In the exclusive Truth Live News interview, the coordinator detailed how the platform has evolved from a denomination-specific event to an inclusive, international talent movement while introducing academy-style training that equips participants for life beyond the stage.
Early editions of the programme (Seasons 1, 2, and 3) were hosted within the Redeemed Christian Church of God. However, Uzeh recognised the limitations of operating within a single denomination.
“The division within the body of Christ, where ministries often operate in isolation and do not support one another’s programmes,” he explained, became a major challenge that pushed him to expand beyond denominational borders.
This shift has produced remarkable international growth. Season 2 reached countries such as Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, while Season 3 extended to Kenya, South Africa, and Dubai. For the 2026 edition, the United Kingdom is now participating, and the platform is deepening its engagement with various African nations.
A game-changing innovation this year is the introduction of online audition processes for the first and second stages. Uzeh cited economic realities in Nigeria and prevailing security challenges as key reasons for this move. “This is partly in response to the economic realities in the country and the security challenges facing Nigeria, especially for contestants travelling from distant and volatile areas,” he noted.
Beyond competition, International Shift operates as a training academy. Contestants undergo three months of structured training before the main competition phases. This academy-style process includes certifications, modules, and practical assignments. The training, introduced last year, has already delivered life-changing impact on participants, including those who did not advance far in the contest.
Key modules cover social media management, content creation, networking, communication, emotional psychology, and a thorough understanding of the International Shift vision. Uzeh highlighted the importance of digital visibility, “Many gifted individuals lack visibility, especially in a global environment where personal profile has become the new curriculum vitae.”
Participants learn practical skills such as building strong digital profiles, creating content with their phones, using editing applications, and communicating their value effectively. The training faculty boasts respected professionals from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nigeria. In one notable instance, a professor who heads a university department teaches the emotional psychology module.
For the 2026 edition, additional changes include a more robust feedback system that welcomes both positive and negative input to improve future seasons. The main event activities have been relocated from the Redemption Camp to Airport Hotel, Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, and will run through June, July, and September.
However, the presentation of prizes will still take place at the Redemption Camp in honour of Daddy GO.These innovations reflect Uzeh’s determination to make the platform more accessible, professional, and impactful while maintaining its spiritual core.
By combining international reach, practical skill development, and strategic adjustments to local realities, International Shift is positioning itself as a comprehensive talent development ecosystem rather than a one-off competition.
