Professor Idi (Ras) Banamungu

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Professional Profile

Distinguished academic, researcher, author, innovator, and community leader, recognized for pioneering Laughter Percussion—a unique therapeutic art form combining rhythm, laughter, and counselling psychology to promote mental health and well-being.

With multiple doctoral degrees (including an honorary Doctorate in Music Therapy & Counselling Psychology) and an honorary professorship, Professor Banamungu has contributed to academic research, mental health advocacy, cultural empowerment, and community development in Australia and globally.

He is the Founder and CEO of the Laughter Percussion Academy, an NDIS-registered provider, delivering accredited training, therapeutic workshops, and innovative community participation programs.

Education

  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – International Business School of Scandinavia, Denmark
  • Honorary Doctor of Music Therapy & Counselling Psychology – International Business School of Scandinavia, Denmark
  • Doctor of Arts (Candidate) – London School of Management and Technology, UK (In Progress)
  • Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) – Sydney Gateway, Australia (2023)
  • Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership – Institute of Safety Management and Technology, Australia
  • Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management – Australia
  • Diploma in Counselling – Australia
  • Diploma in Community Services – Australia
  • Diploma in Laughter Therapy – UK
  • Diploma in Music Therapy – UK
  • Religious Studies Diploma – Centre of Excellence, UK (2022)

Academic Appointments

  • Appointed Agent – Azteca University (Global) (2025–2029)
  • Honorary Professor of Counselling Psychology, Laughter Percussion, and Management Learning – Kennedy University of Baptist, Florida, USA (2025)
  • Founder & Chief Innovation Officer – Laughter Percussion Academy, Australia

Publications

  • The Smiling Face of Australia: Mental Health Self-Help
  • Harmonious Healing: Exploring the Therapeutic Power of Music
  • Recognizing Prior Learning: Unlocking Skills and Opportunities (Vol. 1)
  • Unleashing Your Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to Personal Development Coaching
  • The Communication Nexus: Unveiling the Power and Reach of Mass Media
  • The Impact of Laughter Percussion on Mental Health: An Innovative Approach to Counselling Psychology

Professional Experience

  • Global Appointed Agent – Azteca University (2025–2029)
  • Founder & CEO – Laughter Percussion Academy | Kalgoorlie, Australia | 2019–Present
  • Artist & Educator – Ras Banamungu and The Det-n-ators International | 2015–Present

Awards & Recognition

  • Honorary Professorship – Kennedy University of Baptist, Florida, USA (2025)
  • Appointed Agent – Azteca University (Global) (2025–2029)
  • Featured Author – American Library Association Annual Showcase (2025)
  • Recognized Contributor – Local & International Mental Health Organizations

Community Engagement

  • Organized free Laughter Percussion workshops for marginalized communities
  • Sponsored multicultural festivals promoting African culture in Australia
  • Founded Ras Banamungu and The Det-n-ators International TV for educational and cultural broadcasting

Key Skills

  • Academic Research & Publishing
  • Curriculum Development & Teaching
  • Music Therapy & Laughter Percussion
  • Counselling Psychology
  • Community Engagement & Cultural Advocacy
  • Leadership & Strategic Management
  • Public Speaking & Workshop Facilitation