InterContinental Music Awards Founder Recognized by Zoom’s Solopreneur 50 Program

Los Angeles —  Shahed Mohseni Zonoozi, Founder and CEO of the InterContinental Music Awards (ICMA), has been named t0 Zoom Solopreneur 50 honoree. The national program recognizes independent founders who use technology, creativity, and innovation to build impactful organizations.

The program selected its honorees from nearly 3,000 applicants across the United States. Through ICMA, Shahed has built a global platform that connects artists, music professionals, and industry leaders from more than 100 countries and regions.

While many startup stories focus on venture capital and rapid growth, Shahed’s work focuses on music, culture, and global artistic connection. Through the InterContinental Music Awards, independent artists gain visibility, recognition, and opportunities to reach new audiences worldwide.

As part of the Solopreneur 50 program, Shahed Mohseni joined an exclusive gathering hosted by Zoom. There, he connected with entrepreneurs from across the United States and met Zoom Founder and CEO Eric Yuan.

The event brought together independent founders who are building impactful organizations through technology, creativity, and innovation. It also highlighted the growing influence of entrepreneurs who are creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

While this recognition celebrates entrepreneurial achievement, it also reflects something much larger than one individual accomplishment. Every artist, judge, supporter, media partner, and collaborator has helped shape the InterContinental Music Awards into a global platform that now connects musicians from more than 100 countries and regions.

Founded in 2011, the InterContinental Music Awards connects artists from more than 100 countries and regions. The organization hosts online ceremonies, artist interviews, educational programs, and global recognition initiatives. These programs help independent musicians gain visibility and connect with audiences around the world.

“Music has always been one of the few languages that can cross borders instantly,” said Shahed Mohseni. “The idea behind ICMA is to create a platform where artists from different cultures can feel connected, recognized, and inspired by one another.”

Originally from Iran and now based in Los Angeles, Shahed launched the organization while studying in Mediterranean. Over time, ICMA grew through digital tools, remote collaboration, and online community building. Today, artists from more than 100 countries and regions take part in the program.

ICMA has received recognition from the City of Los Angeles, the California State Senate, and music communities around the world. Shahed is also a member of the Recording Academy. He has served as a mentor in the Grammy U mentorship program. The Zoom Solopreneur 50 recognition comes at a time when creator-led businesses continue to grow. Shahed’s story shows how technology and independent leadership can help build a global community. For Shahed, however, the focus remains on people.

“At its core, ICMA is about building cultural bridges through music,” he said. “When artists share stories, emotions, and creativity, they remind us that art can inspire unity, hope, and connection.”

The InterContinental Music Awards recently closed submissions for its 2026 season. This year, the organization received entries from more than 100 countries and regions.

Follow InterContinental Music Awards Online

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intercontinental_music_awards/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InterContinentalMusicAwards
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@intercontinentalmusicawards