Afleveringen
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In this season's finale, Dr. Mzamo Masito, Chief Marketing Officer at Google Africa, engages in a captivating and insightful dialogue that transcends the professional realm, delving into the profound interplay of personal philosophy, career trajectory, and transformative technological advancements in Africa.
Masito's narrative begins with a reflective journey into his formative years and the philosophical underpinnings that shaped his approach to life and work. He credits his success to mentors and a deep-seated belief in integrity, competence, and consistency. These principles not only defined his framework of winning but also infused his professional life with a distinctive character.
Remarkably, Masito challenges conventional corporate norms, embracing his unique identity and advocating for freedom in its multifaceted forms. This mindset stems from his experiences growing up under apartheid, instilling in him a profound understanding of freedom's value and the necessity of financial independence to speak truth to power.
His professional journey, marked by rapid ascension in the corporate world, is attributed to a combination of hard work, strategic thinking, and the fortification of foundational qualities through therapy and self-awareness. Masito emphasizes the importance of mental health, particularly for African men, advocating for a shift in perception towards therapy and vulnerability.
At Google, Masito's mandate aligns with the company's mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. He passionately discusses Google's initiatives in Africa, focusing on democratizing opportunity and leveraging technology for sustainable development. These efforts encompass a wide range of projects, from agriculture and health to education and data consolidation, all aimed at empowering the African continent.
Masito's vision for the future is deeply rooted in his values of freedom, respect, and Ubuntu ("I am because we are"). He aspires to foster opportunities for others, ensuring that freedom is accompanied by tangible prospects for growth and advancement. This altruistic goal, coupled with his commitment to promoting communal values and competence, shapes his outlook on life and work.
The episode concludes with a heartfelt expression of gratitude and a reaffirmation of Masito's commitment to facilitating positive change in Africa. His journey is imbued with personal struggles, triumphs, and a relentless pursuit of meaningful impact.
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In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, we host Tarek Mouganie, the multifaceted founder and CEO of Affinity Africa. The episode traverses the diverse landscape of Tarek's life, from his rich Lebanese-Ghanaian heritage to his impactful strides in banking, art, sports, and entrepreneurship.
The episode begins with an introduction to Tarek's intriguing background, highlighting his Lebanese roots intertwined with a deep Ghanaian upbringing. Tarek shares personal anecdotes about his journey from Kumasi, Ghana, to the prestigious halls of Cambridge University, where he pursued a PhD in Material Science and Engineering.
Tarek then delves into the global and African economic landscapes, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities prevalent in the continent. A significant part of the conversation focuses on Tarek's transition from a successful career in corporations like Deloitte to establishing his own entrepreneurial venture in Ghana. His story is one of returning to roots and contributing to the country's growth, driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to impact social and economic development.
In an inspiring turn, the discussion shifts to Tarek's athletic prowess, particularly his involvement in triathlons. He narrates his journey from being an academically inclined individual to discovering his love for sports, eventually leading to the founding of the Ghana Triathlon Federation. Here, he highlights the power of sports in transforming lives and communities.
The conversation then steers towards Tarek's engagement with the nightlife and creative scene in Ghana, with a special focus on Frontback, a private members club, he helped establish. Tarek underscores the significance of the creative industry in Africa and its role in showcasing the continent's rich culture and arts to the world.
Further, the episode explores Tarek's vision and the journey of Affinity Africa, his venture into digital banking. He discusses the challenges faced in establishing a digital bank in Ghana, the unique approach Affinity has taken in the banking sector, and its future aspirations.
The episode also touches upon Tarek's involvement in the performing arts, particularly his association with Greenlight Stage and his passion for storytelling and performance arts. He emphasizes the importance of such platforms in promoting African stories and talents globally.
In a heartfelt segment, Tarek reflects on his Lebanese-Ghanaian heritage and its influence on his entrepreneurial spirit. He attributes his resilience and adaptability to his background, highlighting the role of culture in shaping one's outlook and approach to life and business.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this engaging episode of the Change Africa Podcast, we're joined by Caleb Maru, the founder of Tech Safari. Maru's company is at the forefront of amplifying the narratives of Africa’s tech sector, showcasing its potential to reshape the continent.
Maru, who pivoted to the tech world after a stint in peace and security policy, shares his insights into the burgeoning African tech ecosystem. His career switch, driven by a desire for more fulfilling work, has given him a unique perspective on the tech landscape.
Our conversation kicks off with the challenges of launching a tech company in Africa. Maru points out that the biggest hurdle for founders is not just identifying the right problem and market but also learning and adapting quickly in a market constrained by limited economic resources.
Regulation, Maru argues, is another significant barrier for growing startups, particularly in Africa, where businesses often need to navigate multiple markets to manage currency risks effectively.
Funding, a critical aspect of any startup's journey, also comes under scrutiny. Maru emphasizes the need for founders to create compelling stories to attract investors, suggesting that fundraising difficulties could stem from weak narratives or inherent issues within the startup.
Looking ahead, Maru anticipates an increase in 'startup deaths,' but also opportunities for consolidation in the sector. He sees potential in smaller-scale acquisitions, which could be vital for energizing the tech ecosystem.
On the role of government in technology development, Maru is critical of current policies, noting that they often create more obstacles than opportunities for startups. He calls for a more supportive regulatory and infrastructural environment to aid tech innovation.
Narrative, according to Maru, is a key tool in a startup's arsenal. He advises differentiating the story told to customers from that pitched to investors, a strategy crucial for effective communication and resource mobilization.
Maru concludes by describing the startup world as a strategic game where founders must balance bold claims with authenticity, aligning their strategies with their core values. Whether by selling a grand vision or adhering to a transparent identity, effective communication is essential for success in this dynamic arena.
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In this podcast episode, we speak to Ameyaw Kissi Debrah, a blogger and prominent figure in Ghana's online media landscape. Our conversation revolved around the evolution of the internet, blogging, and digital media in Ghana and Debrah's journey in this dynamic field.
Ameyaw Debrah reflects on the evolution of blogging and the transition from traditional website-focused platforms to social media. We discuss the intricate balance of adapting consumer behaviour and content strategies to align with the changing digital landscape. This adaptability was evident in his personal journey, transitioning from just covering events to identifying as a blogger in the way of a new internet opportunity.
Debrah delved into the transformation of content formats over the years, noting the shift towards social media content. He shared his experiences with early monetisation strategies, such as Google AdSense and direct advertising, and how this evolved into influencer marketing with major brands. The rise of video content, particularly on platforms like TikTok, was another key topic. Debrah shared his experiences and challenges with video platforms and discussed the evolution of his video-focused venture, Ameyaw TV.
Looking towards the future, Debrah stressed the importance of evolving with the latest trends to sustain a digital media career. He acknowledged the difficulty in predicting future trends but expected technologies like AI to play a significant role. He emphasised the need for African countries to keep pace with global digital advancements to remain competitive.
Debrah also highlighted the importance of diversity in content creation, encouraging exploration of niche areas such as environment, technology, or health. This approach, he believed, could unlock unexplored opportunities in African digital media.
Lastly, Debrah shared insights on the challenges of creating a media company focused on video content. He emphasised the importance of starting early, adapting based on audience feedback, and maintaining a passion for one's work.
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In this episode, we speak with Shadrack Frimpong, a global leader and academic, on his remarkable journey in impact and community development in Africa. Shadrack founded Cocoa360, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to facilitate access to education and improve health care through cocoa farming revenue. Shadrack has a PhD, an honorary doctorate, and two master's degrees and is currently in medical school training to be a physician.
Shadrack's story begins in Tarkwa Breman, Ghana, where he was born to a peasant cocoa farmer and a charcoal seller. Despite his economic background, Shadrack has always shown remarkable leadership. From co-founding a Scholarship and Talents Club in high to guiding dozens of students in accessing global educational opportunities to Students for a Healthy Africa and the African Research Academies for Women, Shadrack is deeply committed to addressing crucial issues like health care and education in Africa.
Our conversation centres on his unique approach to poverty alleviation. He challenges prevalent misconceptions and emphasizes the centrality of healthcare in addressing poverty. His critique extends to the inefficiencies in current resource allocation and the often misguided focus of development programs. Shadrack believes financial aid alone does not suffice in poverty alleviation; health and well-being are equally critical.
Cocoa360, his nonprofit, is a testament to Shadrack's innovative approach. This model ingeniously integrates healthcare, education, and cocoa farming, enabling communities to sustain their health and educational needs through agricultural activity. This self-sustaining model departs from traditional aid systems, promoting community-driven development and empowerment.
Shadrack expounds on issues in the cocoa value chain, such as child labour and underpayment and how their model keeps children in school and brings parents to the farm. He also discusses the complexities of policy and advocacy in improving the lives of cocoa farmers.
With Cocoa360 as a template and armed with research in medicine and development, Shdrack wants to create a scalable blueprint for sustainable community development in Africa.
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In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, Akunna Cook, the founder and CEO of Next Narrative Africa, shares her unique journey and vision for transforming Africa's global narrative through media.
The conversation began with an exploration of Cook's transition from her career in policy and diplomacy to the realm of media and entertainment. She emphasized the strategic importance of narrative change in media to alter global perceptions about Africa. Cook's experience in policy significantly influences her approach to content creation, focusing on stories that present Africans as innovators and problem-solvers.
Cook discussed the various challenges and opportunities in the African media landscape, highlighting the negative portrayal of Africa in the media and its impact on perceptions and investments. She explained how Next Narrative Africa aims to counter these stereotypes by producing entertaining and impactful stories that positively represent Africa and its people.
The podcast delved into the company's content strategy, which includes projects covering democracy, governance, health, climate, and inclusive economic growth. Cook underscored the need for content that is both entertaining and educative, aiming to make a social impact while also being commercially viable. Her strategy also involves creating a supportive ecosystem that facilitates the growth of diverse African storytellers. This includes organizing events like concerts and discussions to engage communities and foster partnerships essential for narrative change.
Looking ahead, Cook expressed her aspiration to build a globally recognized African media industry. She spoke about the importance of collaboration with the diaspora and international artists to amplify African stories. The conversation also touched upon the critical aspect of funding and investment in African media, with Cook outlining strategies to create a supportive ecosystem for diverse African storytellers.
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In this expansive and insightful episode, investigative journalist David Hundeyin dissects the nuanced relationship between activism and African institution-building, exploring the full breadth of work.
David demystifies Boko Haram and the broader context facilitating the group's emergence and influence. David Hundeyin discusses how northern Nigeria, initially diverse in its Islamic sects, became increasingly monolithic due to external influences. This shift towards a strict Wahhabi/Salafi interpretation of Sunni Islam, fueled by foreign investment and ideology, laid the groundwork for cultural and religious uniformity.
Hundeyin expresses scepticism toward the performative nature of activism tied to civil society funding, arguing for a clear demarcation between genuine activism and careerist pursuits within the civil society sector. He critiques the tendency to conflate the two, emphasizing the intrinsic value of activism as a response to personal conviction rather than a pathway to financial gain.
We explore police profiling and brutality in Nigeria, particularly by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). David dives into the grassroots movement of the #EndSARS hashtag, which transitioned from social media to a nationwide protest following a series of brutal actions by the police.
His storytelling is personal and deeply moving, particularly as he recounts the tragic death of his father due to institutional failure, which catalyzed his commitment to uncovering the truth and advocating for change. The podcast also touches on the broader issues of African institutional decay and the need for sincere leadership and human capital development to address the continent's challenges. Hundeyin's perspective is shaped by his experiences and the profound realization that societal and systemic issues in Nigeria can impact anyone, regardless of their social or economic status.
Often a subject of critique, this episode attempts to uncover the human behind the investigative journalist.
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In our premiering episode of Season 5, Mr Eazi (Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade), Latin Grammy award-winning musician, tech venture capitalist, entrepreneur, music innovator, and philanthropist, takes centre stage.
The conversation begins with Mr. Eazi's philanthropic efforts in supporting universities in Ghana. He emphasises the profound impact of education on national consciousness and its ability to uplift individuals, families, and communities. He shares that his initiative has supported around 340 students, covering their tuition fees.
Isaac then delves into Mr. Eazi's journey into the music industry. While he always had an inclination towards music, it was his entrepreneurial ventures that inadvertently led him to the music industry. From organising university parties and gold trading in Ghana to co-founding a tech company, we explore how his business mindset has shaped his music.
Throughout the conversation, a recurring theme is Mr. Eazi's desire for freedom, both creative and economic. He emphasises the importance of ownership, especially in the music industry. He likens artists to startups - entities with intellectual property that require investment to scale. His desire for a different kind of deal with labels, which recognised the artist's value as a startup, led him to establish his path in the music industry and his talent incubator, Empawa Africa.
Eazi explains his vision for Chop Life, the brand that comprises his investments in African entertainment, gaming, culture, and lifestyle. He emphasises the interconnectedness of his ventures and how they complement each other towards his version of a Disney-like empire.
The conversation then shifts to Eazi's recent music and his inspiration from art. Eazi shares how art has rekindled his passion for music and how he's using it as a medium to express his thoughts and music. He also delves into the meaning behind his album title "Evil Genius," explaining it as a reflection of his journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
Throughout the podcast, Eazi is a visionary artist and entrepreneur, constantly seeking to push boundaries and redefine norms in the African music and entertainment industry.
Key Highlights
Introduction 01:02 - 01:37)Philanthropy in Education (01:49 - 04:12)Interrogating Mr. Eazi’s Legacy and Creativity (04:12 - 06:14)Journey into Music (06:14 - 09:30)Venturing into Tech (09:30 - 14:43)Carving A Distinct Musical Identity (15:25 - 17:39)The Importance of Ownership and Vision (17:39 - 18:30)Chop Life's Expanding Universe (29:50 - 30:30)The "Evil Genius" Album (38:58 - 40:05)The Philosophy Behind His Music (42:17 - 43:50)Breaking Free from External Validation (43:50 - 45:00)This podcast is produced by Nexa Media
Do you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Watch on YouTube
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In a riveting culmination to its fourth season, the Change Africa podcast offers listeners a reflective gaze into its most expansive season yet. With the astute hosts Isaac and Daniel at the helm, the episode is not just a mere review. For the first time, the podcast welcomes a listener, Brigitte Perenyi, blurring the lines between audience and content. The discourse meanders through the labyrinth of African narratives, underscoring the paramountcy of representation. Memorable guests like Lucy Quist and Paul Ninson are invoked, painting a tableau of industry-specific changemakers sculpting the African renaissance. Behind-the-scenes anecdotes reveal the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each episode. But it's not all retrospection. The horizon looks promising. Teasers suggest the podcast's trajectory is set to intersect with luminaries of global repute in the forthcoming season. As the episode concludes, one is left with an invigorating sense of anticipation. The Change Africa podcast, in its quintessential style, melds introspection with aspiration, setting the stage for a compelling next act.
See you in the next season!!!
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In this episode, Addy Awofisayo, the Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa at YouTube, takes us on a fascinating deep-dive into the African music universe and the far-reaching impact of digitalization on African music that has just commenced.
After her early-stage career stint in finance and what Addy calls a "quarter-life crisis", she knew she wanted a career in the creative industry. Still, the possibility of a career in the music industry never occurred to her. She made her first inroads into the media and content creation industry before joining YouTube, where the potential of then-booming music and especially the afrobeat industry on the continent, opened up the music sector as a viable career path.
Addy describes how she carved out and seized the opportunity to become YouTube's first-ever Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa. From an immersion trip to Nigeria with Lyor Cohen, the Head of Global Music at Google and YouTube and five senior leadership members on the music team organized by Addy to obtain new insights into realizing the potential and diversity within the African music industry, she highlights the journey leading to the creation of this new position at YouTube and how she interprets this new role.
Addy shares some highlights and projects she spearheaded in her new role, such as a fundraiser for covid relief efforts through a live African Benefit Concert by African music stars out of their homes on Africa Day and the live broadcast of Burna Boy's show at the Madison Square Garden via YouTube.
Beyond the great strides of Addy in her role and the African music industry as a whole, we discuss additional measures undertaken by YouTube to strengthen the African creative sector ranging from training to funding and much more. Despite further initiatives, the one factor identified by Addy as the holy grail of unlocking the African creative industry both from a creation and consumption perspective is data availability and data cost.
Addy further highlights the potential of digitalization through examples of artists and their management teams using YouTube's analytics to make business decisions and how digitalization has broken down entry barriers for content creators, enabling younger artists and female artists to circumvent gatekeepers and transform the African music industry.
Looking into the future, Addy discusses how the focus is shifting from just the artist to an entire industry and how she supports the ecosystem's development and new opportunities created by that development.
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In this episode, we have an intriguing conversation with Adora Mba, founder of ADA Contemporary Art Gallery, a commercial art space based in Accra.
Adora's journey into the art world began during her childhood, surrounded by art collectors in her family. Initially pursuing a career in journalism, she developed a passion for covering African artists, eventually leading her to establish a platform for showcasing their work.
Despite lacking a well-established art industry, Adora saw tremendous potential in Ghana as a hub for promoting African art. She recognised the need to bridge the gap between talented artists and the international art community. Ada Contemporary Art Gallery serves as a debutante ball, presenting artists to the world and providing them with the support needed to advance their careers.
The podcast delves into the challenges and opportunities in Ghana's art scene, the lack of local art appreciation, and the shift towards recognising the value of African art internationally. Adora's journey to finding a unique space for her gallery in Accra and her efforts in promoting Ghanaian art to global audiences highlight the evolving landscape of the country's art industry.
Adora delves into the fascinating world of discovering African artists and the impact of Instagram on the art industry. Previously, artists had to rely on physical portfolios and emails to reach out to galleries, but Instagram has opened up a vast virtual gallery for artists to display their creations.
The conversation sheds light on the art industry's transformation during the pandemic, with people spending more time online and exploring new artists and artworks. She recognises the impact of Instagram on the art industry, opening up a vast virtual gallery for artists to display their creations.
We discuss the artist's journey from a gallery to the open market and the challenges they face. She emphasises the importance of pricing artwork correctly and not overvaluing it prematurely, as this could lead to a rapid decline in value. Adora also stresses the need for artists to understand the business aspect of the art industry, advising them to educate themselves on art history and the market to elevate their career trajectory.
Adora discusses the challenges of establishing a strong art scene in Ghana and the need for a local buyer base. She emphasises the importance of partnerships with other galleries and curators from the continent to strengthen the African art ecosystem.
Looking ahead to the future of her gallery, Adora envisions a vibrant art institution that goes beyond a conventional gallery.
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In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, we speak to award-winning producer and African filmmaker Daniel Damah. Known for his inspiring and impactful Ghanaian films such as "Beast of No Nation" and "Joseph," Danny shares his journey into the world of filmmaking and the passion that drove him to tell African stories.
Daniel traces his interest in film back to his time in India, where he observed the underrepresentation of dark-skinned Indians in the media. This experience fueled his determination to showcase the enchanting and magical stories of Africa that the mainstream media had overlooked.
The discussion delves into the challenges Daniel faced while filming "Beasts of No Nation" in Ghana, including a lack of infrastructure, exposure to filmmaking tools, and the experience of working on a global film set. However, the success of the film highlighted the immense talent and potential present in Ghana's filmmaking industry.
Danny addresses the importance of resourcing educational institutions that offer creative arts training, including teacher training colleges, to ensure a robust and skilled workforce in the future. This, in turn, will enable African filmmakers to create high-quality content that resonates globally, leading to greater economic growth for the continent.
Throughout the conversation, Danny underlines the need for cultural authenticity in African storytelling. He acknowledges the challenges of retelling historical narratives accurately while navigating the influence of Western narratives that have often distorted African history. Striving to strike a balance between tradition and modernity, Danny emphasises the significance of meticulous research and collaboration with those familiar with local cultures to maintain cultural authenticity.
The podcast also explores the exciting collaborations TD Films is undertaking with international celebrities like Idris Elba to bridge the gap between Hollywood and African cinema. Danny stresses the importance of the international film studio his team is building in Ghana and Tanzania to attract more international filmmakers, enabling local talents to learn and grow.
Danny's mission to empower the African film industry through quality content, cultural authenticity, and talent discovery comes to life throughout the Change Africa Podcast. His passion for elevating African cinema and driving economic growth through creative arts shines through, inspiring listeners to embrace their talents and contribute to Africa's cinematic renaissance.
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In this episode, we interview Paul Ninson, the founder and executive director of Dikan, a visionary education and nonprofit organisation in Accra, Ghana educating the Next Generation of Africa's Creative Leaders.
Paul shares his journey and passion for storytelling, tracing it back to his childhood, where he was exposed to the rich tradition of oral history in Ghana. Isaac explores why Paul chose photography as his medium of expression. Paul reveals his love for visuals and how he discovered photography while studying at the university. He describes the joy and excitement he felt when he acquired his first camera, capturing images that made him proud and marked the beginning of his career as a photographer.
The conversation then shifts to Paul's experience in Kenya, where he sought to tell indigenous African stories that had been overlooked. He elaborates on his fascination with African traditions and rulership, explaining his desire to challenge the prevailing narrative that depicted Africa from an outsider's perspective. Paul's time in Kenya served as a catalyst for his future endeavours.
Isaac and Paul delve into the genesis of Dikan, which has evolved into a visual education institution rather than just a photo library. Paul shares his vision of creating a space that breaks down barriers and offers accessibility to photography and filmmaking for aspiring creatives. He emphasises the importance of building an institution that focuses on African stories, experiences, and history instead of relying on Western institutions for African studies. The curriculum at Dikan is specifically designed to address this need, with courses exploring Africa's visual history as a foundation.
The episode concludes with a glimpse into the different educational programs offered at Dikan, including full-time courses, workshops, and the Teen Academy. Paul's passion for empowering young individuals shines through as he describes the educational paths available at Dikan, all rooted in celebrating African heritage and nurturing the creative talents of the next generation.
Links and Resources:
•Find Paul on LinkedIn
•Learn more about Dikan
This podcast is produced by Nexa Media
Do you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
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In this episode, we are joined by Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio and Xylon van Eyck, founders of the Rocacorba Collective, a cycling community aimed at revolutionising the indoor e-cycling experience by creating an inspiring, uplifting and safe space for women to come together to cycle, whatever their level or experience. Ashley, a three-time Olympian (five-time South African Champion and the 1st UCI Cycling Esports World Champion), and Xylon, a passionate storyteller and global connector of athletes and cyclists, delve into the world of cycling and sports, uncovering inspiring stories of resilience, competition, and excellence.
The episode begins by exploring Xylon's transition from a media personality to the world of sports and cycling and his battle against cancer at 26. Initially shocked by the diagnosis, Xylon shares his journey of resilience and the emotional challenges he faced. Ashleigh also recounts her teenage ordeal with a head injury that almost damaged her brain and a later illness that shortened her aspirations of conquering the Tour de France. The discussion highlights the profound impact of sickness on the human psyche and the endurance required to overcome such challenges.
Xylon and Ashleigh discuss the origins of the Rocacorba Collective and its significance in their personal journeys. Xylon, hailing from a disadvantaged South African community, recounts his passion for cycling and his determination to provide opportunities for others who aspire to reach the highest levels of the sport. Ashley shares her inspiring experiences in Eritrea and her realisation of the potential to support African women in pursuing cycling excellence in Europe.
The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Ashleigh describes her discovery of the virtual world and indoor cycling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognising women's enhanced confidence and engagement in the virtual space, she saw an opportunity to foster community and empower women through indoor training platforms like Zwift. This realisation sparked the birth of the Rocacorba Collective, which extends beyond physical cycling tourism to a global virtual community.
The collective's core objectives include providing training plans, coaching sessions, and building connections with riders in South Africa and beyond. Through strategic collaborations with organisations like Culture Cycles, the collective aims to break barriers and create a blueprint for eCenters in underprivileged African communities. These centres will serve as indoor training and learning facilities, paving the way for more women and individuals to excel in cycling and overcome their challenges in pursuing their dreams.
Tune in to this episode to be inspired by the Rocacorba Collective's transformative vision and the commitment of Ashleigh and Xylon van Eyck to revolutionise cycling in Africa while empowering women to achieve their fullest potential.
Links and Resources:
•Find Ashleigh and Xylon on LinkedIn
•Read more about the Rocacorba Collective
This podcast is produced by Nexa Media
Do you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
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In this episode, we speak to Anita Erskine, a globally respected authority on media and communications with over two decades of experience. Anita shares her insights on the power of storytelling, the challenges faced by African women entrepreneurs, and the role of initiatives she works with, like Africa's Business Heroes, in supporting and empowering them. She also discusses her journey in the media industry, the launch of the Anita Erskine Network, and her return to acting and filmmaking. As a host of high-profile events, Anita reflects on the privilege of interacting with influential figures and shares how commitment and passion have played a significant role in her career. Her inspiring stories and experiences shed light on the immense potential of African entrepreneurship and the importance of creating platforms for diverse voices.
Anita reflects on her upbringing in Ghana and Canada, emphasizing the importance of finding one's voice and aligning it with a purpose. She shares her passion for advocating women's rights and girls' education, highlighting the significance of making a positive impact on the lives of others.
The conversation then delves into the expectations placed on women in media and other industries. Anita discusses the pressure she felt to choose between her family and her career, with societal norms suggesting that a woman cannot fully enjoy both. She acknowledges that such expectations are not limited to the media industry and explains how various industries impose similar dilemmas on women.
Anita also shares her journey in the media industry, from creating Anita Erskine Media to launching the Anita Erskine Network. She explains how these ventures aim to tell diverse stories through different formats and provide a platform for emerging talent. Furthermore, Anita reveals her passion for acting and filmmaking, crediting Shirley Frimpong-Manso, a renowned filmmaker, for reigniting her interest in acting. She hints at upcoming projects and expresses her excitement about exploring this creative side of her career.
As the conversation draws to a close, Anita reflects on the privilege of hosting events featuring influential figures like Vice President Kamala Harris. She emphasizes the importance of commitment and the desire to make a positive impact in one's field. Anita's experiences and insights inspire listeners to believe in their abilities and pursue their dreams while also recognizing the significance of creating opportunities and platforms for underrepresented voices in African entrepreneurship and beyond.
Links and Resources:
•Find Anita Erskine on LinkedIn
•This podcast is produced by Nexa Media
Do you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Watch on YouTube
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, we speak with Marie Lora-Mungai, the founder of Restless Global, an advisory firm that collaborates with organisations and financiers to bridge the gap between investors and local talents, paving the way for Africa's flourishing homegrown creative and sports sectors.
Marie's journey, rooted in her background as a journalist covering African stories, took an inspiring turn when she experienced the vibrancy of Nairobi. This eye-opening encounter shattered her misconceptions and ignited her fervour to showcase African innovation and creativity. Together with the talented cartoonist Gado, she birthed the groundbreaking "XYZ Show," a fearless political satire program that fearlessly tackled societal frustrations, sparking critical conversations that transcended mere entertainment.
The episode delves into the challenges and strides of the African creative industry. Hindered by limited infrastructure, funding avenues, global exposure, and cultural biases, African talent has often been overlooked on the international stage. However, positive shifts have emerged. Digital platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Apple Music have become catalysts for global reach, offering African content unprecedented visibility. With increased investment, collaborations, and growing cultural appreciation, the stage is set for higher-quality content production and broader exposure for African talent.
Marie sheds light on the complex task of cultivating a talent base for African homegrown industries. Historically, African creators have faced barriers in accessing education and resources, resulting in a shortage of skilled scriptwriters and content producers. While initiatives like Netflix's workshops and training programs aim to address this gap, developing a robust talent pool will take time. Marie emphasises the significance of nurturing local talent and producing quality content to attract investment and foster thriving creative industries.
Additionally, Marie unveils insights from her groundbreaking report on the African film industry, commissioned by UNESCO in 2021. This comprehensive study offers a panoramic view of the audiovisual landscape across all 54 African nations. Marie highlights the burgeoning interest in African content and the potential for a local production boom. She acknowledges the challenges impeding progress and the intricate web of bureaucracy and hurdles aspiring filmmakers face.
Links and Resources:
Find Marie Lora-Mungai on LinkedInRead her Newsletter, Hustle and Flow and her UNESCO reportThis podcast is produced by Nexa MediaDo you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
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In this episode, we are joined by Benny Bonsu, an award-winning industry leader and Director of Daily Content at Olympic Channel Services. Benny shares her remarkable journey from a career in education to becoming a prominent figure in sports journalism, mainly focusing on women's sports. Her diverse experiences and passion for Africa's development make for a thought-provoking discussion at the intersection of sports, women's empowerment and continental transformation.
Benny takes us back to her childhood in Ghana and her family's move to the UK. Despite beginning her career in education as a teacher and headteacher, Benny always had a deep passion for sports from a young age coming from a family of talented athletes.
Combining her passion for sports and writing, she began contributing to sports platforms. A chance encounter with an executive producer from the BBC led her to consider a career in front of the camera. Benny discusses the challenges women of colour face in the UK media and expands on her experiences as a woman of colour breaking barriers in the industry.
Isaac and Benny dive into the importance of developing sports in Africa, particularly basketball, and the need for greater support for women in sports. Benny shares her personal experiences and involvement in supporting the growth of basketball in Africa, highlighting initiatives like NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL). She emphasises the cultural significance of basketball on the continent and the strong talent pool present in Africa.
While acknowledging the achievements of the BAL and individual efforts to develop women's basketball, Benny emphasises the need for more support and investment in women's sports in Africa. She draws attention to successful examples, such as England's strategic investment in women's football, leading to significant growth and audience engagement.
Benny discusses the importance of implementing change and intentionally developing sports programs and facilities. She shares her observations from Senegal and how other African countries can be intentional in sports infrastructure development. Benny envisions hosting international events in Africa, promoting year-round economic growth through sports and hopes to lead Ghana's Ministry of Sports.
Links and Resources:
Find Benny Bonsu on LinkedInThis podcast is produced by Nexa MediaDo you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Watch on YouTube
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Elfried Samba, co-founder and CEO of Butterfly 3ffect and Chief Community Officer at Iconic, shares valuable insights on social media, community building, influencer marketing, and representation on this episode of the Change Africa Podcast. With a decade of experience, Elfried discusses how social media has evolved from an overlooked gimmick to a crucial part of business strategy. In addition, he highlights the importance of understanding different social media platforms as unique venues for interaction and tailoring content to resonate with each platform's context.
Elfried's notable contribution to building a massive community comes from his time at Gym Shark, where he significantly leveraged social media to transform the brand from a small startup to a billion-dollar company with millions of followers. He recounts his journey of initially facing scepticism from companies about social media's potential until joining Gym Shark as employee number 24. Elfried underscores the importance of building trust, authenticity, and genuine connections with the community. His strategic approach included transparency, maintaining a close connection with the audience, and incorporating their feedback into significant decisions.
Furthermore, Elfried highlights the power of influencer marketing and the significance of partnering with micro-influencers with a dedicated and engaged following within the target niche. He encourages brands to collaborate with influencers on content creation, giving them the creative freedom to showcase products or services authentically. By prioritising authenticity, engagement, and values alignment over follower count, brands can establish genuine relationships and tap into the influencer's trust and influence to reach a highly targeted audience.
Elfried also sheds light on the crucial role of representation in marketing and storytelling. He advocates showcasing a broader "new normal" that challenges traditional beauty standards and stereotypes. For example, at Gym Shark, they represented different body types and fitness levels to create a more inclusive and inspiring environment. Elfried believes that marketing has the power to shape culture and influence society, highlighting the responsibility to promote inclusivity and ensure that the narratives created reflect the diversity of our world.
Elfried's insights emphasise the need for authenticity, understanding of platform-specific contexts, and consistent connection with the audience in social media and community building. He encourages brands to establish genuine partnerships with micro-influencers, prioritise authenticity over follower count, and promote representation and inclusivity in marketing narratives.
Links and Resources:
Find Elfried Samba on LinkedInThis podcast is produced by Nexa MediaDo you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this season opener, we host Lucy Quist, author of The Bold New Normal and a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley serving as the Global Head of Firm Resilience, about the imperative to instigate a mindset shift to overcome Africa's challenges.
Lucy begins the podcast advocating for STEM as a critical component of Africa's success. She highlights the invaluable problem-solving skills possessed by engineers and their relentless determination to accomplish goals, traits that transcend industry boundaries. In her view, cultivating a society with more problem solvers and individuals driven to take action is vital for Africa's progress.
The conversation takes a profound turn as Lucy reveals the inspiration behind her book, "The Bold New Normal," and the dire need to confront deep-rooted issues plaguing the continent. She points out that a prevailing mindset accepting scarcity often hampers progress. To usher in change, Lucy emphasizes the significance of presenting a compelling vision of what can be achieved and rallying people around this vision. Crucially, she emphasizes the imperative of shifting mindsets and changing behaviours, transforming mere survival into thriving.
Isaac and Lucy further explore strategies to catalyze widespread mindset shifts. They discuss the importance of an extensive information campaign, a revamped education system, and cultural reinforcement to instil confidence and foster a shared vision for the future. Lucy passionately emphasizes that transformation is feasible within our lifetime, emphasizing the critical role of hard work, consistency, and active participation. While acknowledging that progress may occur at varying speeds, she cites Rwanda's astonishing transformation within a decade as a tangible example.
As the conversation unfolds, Lucy evokes the spirit of Ghana's independence movement, where a collective vision galvanized a nation and its people. She believes that similarly powerful visions can be conceived today, inspiring and mobilizing individuals toward positive change. Reflecting on her own experiences leading teams in Africa, Lucy underscores the significance of empathy and fostering deep connections among team members. While accountability and timeliness remain crucial, she advocates for striking a balance between congeniality and holding individuals responsible. Notably, she underscores the importance of time management, exposing the detrimental effects of wasted hours and urging a paradigm shift toward timeliness as a form of accountability, igniting heightened productivity.
Lucy emphasizes the urgency to transcend tokenism, urging intentional efforts toward diversity encompassing both visible and invisible characteristics. Lucy highlights the transformative impact of diverse teams, the unique perspectives of women leaders, and the necessity of inclusive policies that cater to the diverse needs of all.
Links and Resources:
Find Lucy Quist on LinkedInBuy the book, The Bold New NormalAttend the Bold New Normal ConferenceDo you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Stefania Manfreda is an Art Enthusiast, Creative Director, and Curator, creating spaces that foster curiosity, experimentation, and self-expression in Ghanaian artists. She is the founder of the unique multi-brand women’s concept space, Elle Lokko, and creative art space, The Container.
Stefania’s appreciation and love for creative spaces begin from her experiences in the immersive and culture-rich streets of Milan where she studied for most of her life. She describes her periodic visits to Ghana which highlighted the gaps and opportunities which existed in contrast to the already-established industries of Italy and further solidified her resolve to settle in Ghana where she could capitalize on opportunities and make a tangible impact.
She shares the story of her introduction to Ghana's arts and fashion space through the design and sale of branded t-shirts that mirrored the everyday experiences of the average Ghanaian. This first venture, she tells us, gradually evolved into curating art, collaborating with other artists, and creating a space for expression by other creatives. We discuss Lokko House and Elle Lokko - her fashion-related brands bridging the gap between clothing designers and customers.
Stefania describes the positive impact and opportunities the growing Ghanaian art space has had on making Ghana a tourist destination and increasing the patronage of the works of artists through festivals like the Chalewote Festival. Stefania shares her thoughts on the definition of art, interrogating the idea of constraining artists to fit a particular mold in an era where expression through art boasts a myriad of variations. We discuss her work with several burgeoning artists and creatives, and her use of spaces such as The Container to encourage self-exploration and self-experimentation in a bid to churn out the next generation of unique Ghanaian creatives.
Stefania shares her vision of creating an institute and workspace for honing and developing creative talents through practical interactions which allow them to explore their curiosities. She juxtaposes the art spaces of Italy and Ghana and highlights lessons that can be implemented towards improving the reputation of Ghana as a destination for art enthusiasts across the world.
Links and Resources:
Find Stefania Manfreda on LinkedIn
This podcast is produced by Nexa Media
Do you have a question for our hosts, email us at [email protected]
Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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