I told you that this week is awesome!
I love Africa! I love the people even more! I love our diversity in skin tones. I love our various languages that include clicks, coughs and long syllables. Our traditions may differ but they are somewhat intertwined. Africa isn't just the cradle of mankind. It is the stew pot of talent, intelligence and creativity.
I procrastinated for a long time about writing about my African inspirations. With this challenge I have the opportunity to take action. My top 5 list includes creatives from various genres of media, arts and entertainment. As a creative myself, I incline naturally towards those who are like myself. It is true that, 'birds of the same feather, flock together,' and away do I fly with the eagles.
Without further due, below are the 5 Africans who inspire me.
1. Bonang Matheba
Did you know that Bonang Matheba and I were born a week and a half apart in 1987? Now you know! I live vicariously through queen B! She is my benchmark when it comes to female, African media moguls. I fell in love with her sprite-like yet authoritative presence when she was the host of SABC 1's, 'Live'. Since then, I have followed both her career and personal life. I literally grow up with Bonang. Like me, she's a Cancerian - so I relate to most of her actions. An intelligent business woman, with an infectious personality, Bonang Matheba is the ultra, modern African feminist. She lives by her own rules yet understands how to impact people with her brand. When I grow up, I will be Bonang Matheba.
2. Trevor Noah
To me, he's husbae, (dans ma réve!) While we discuss the 'daywalker's' attractiveness, I'm actually drawn to his witty humour and intelligence. But that's not what makes him my inspiration. Trevor Noah has a unique story which he penned down in the award winning autobiography, 'Born A Crime.' He is one of Africa's most prized exports. He is the host of the most coveted talk show in the USA. Imagine a mixed race man from South Africa taking over 'The Daily Show'? I respect his ability to assimilate into American culture and politics. He has shown flexibility and that he's well READ! His skills have been rewarded with nominations and accolades including NAACP awards. I would pay for a masterclass by Trevor Noah. The topic: 'How to penetrate the international market as an African.'
3. Danai Gurira
I have been rooting for Danai Gurira forever! I recall arguing with people about Zimbabweans in the diaspora to celebrate. I was team Danai all the way. I knew of Danai as a playwright through my grand uncle, who is a playwright himself. Her work gave me goals and when I then saw the buzz around her as she cast in, 'The Walking Dead', I was sold. Kudos to her being a melanin queen kicking ass in Hollywood. In an industry where colourism is predominant, she hasn't bleached her skin. Danai is kicking down doors and shooting for the stars in her natural skin. She's my ideal, standard of black beauty - CONFIDENT. She is definitely black girl magic! She’s made history so far in her career. In 2016, she made Broadway history with her play, 'Eclipsed'. The play had an all black, female cast while the crew was all female. In 2018, she was the first black, female actress to win the 'Best Superhero' award at the People’s Choice awards. As an activist, she was named a UN ambassador. I hope to be privy of queen Danai, be it a one-to-one interview with her, or to shadow her as a writer, actress and activist.
4. Fela Kuti
Before AKA dressed, 'Fela in Versace', or Wizkid, or D'banj, we had Fela Kuti. Father to entertainer, Femi Kuti, Fela is G.O.A.T (greatest of all times). The Nigerian legend was eccentric, a total rock star and an activist. He wasn't just an entertainer, he challenged the status quo. He is the forefather of Afro beats as well as Afro Pop music. Fela inspires me to step out and speak out. The man, the music and the African in the late legend shows a powerful side of not only Nigerian history, but the continent at large.
5. Stephen Chifunyise
When my professional writing and spoken word career began, I wanted to build my name on my own merit. Fortunately, I have created my own lane. Now, I can openly speak about the influential forces supporting my work. Behind the scenes, I have been blessed to have my grand uncle, Stephen Chifunyise to cheer me on. Affectionately known as uncle Steve, he has been instrumental in the development of Zimbabwean literature, arts and culture. He is the founder of the Children's Performing Arts Workshop (CHIPAWO). The platform has groomed several talented creatives whilst preserving our cultural heritage. Uncle Steve is part of many boards that spearhead and promote cultural exchanges between Zimbabwe and the world. He has worked with Culture Fund, NAMA, and HIFA, to name but a few. We can thank him and Davis Guzha for Theatre in the Park, located at the Harare Gardens. They created a legacy for theatre. An award winning playwright and author, Uncle Steve is loved by the vazukurus (grandchildren). He is a great storyteller who upholds oral tradition. On this list, I am blessed that he's one famous person that I know, (and related to). I carry the legacy of the reading and writing culture clearly through my DNA. I am encouraged to be the best writer that I can be because I am endorsed by one of the greatest writers. Stephen Chifunyise isn't just my inspiration, he's my hero! (Sheds a tear).
Past, present and future, Africa is in good hands. My top 5 are individuals who invested time and passion before reaching out to other nations. I hope that the Africans that inspire you, rouse action for you to be great!
Live to inspire and let God take you higher!
P.S. Always write your own love story!
Ciao!
Lady E
I love Africa! I love the people even more! I love our diversity in skin tones. I love our various languages that include clicks, coughs and long syllables. Our traditions may differ but they are somewhat intertwined. Africa isn't just the cradle of mankind. It is the stew pot of talent, intelligence and creativity.
I procrastinated for a long time about writing about my African inspirations. With this challenge I have the opportunity to take action. My top 5 list includes creatives from various genres of media, arts and entertainment. As a creative myself, I incline naturally towards those who are like myself. It is true that, 'birds of the same feather, flock together,' and away do I fly with the eagles.
Without further due, below are the 5 Africans who inspire me.
1. Bonang Matheba
Did you know that Bonang Matheba and I were born a week and a half apart in 1987? Now you know! I live vicariously through queen B! She is my benchmark when it comes to female, African media moguls. I fell in love with her sprite-like yet authoritative presence when she was the host of SABC 1's, 'Live'. Since then, I have followed both her career and personal life. I literally grow up with Bonang. Like me, she's a Cancerian - so I relate to most of her actions. An intelligent business woman, with an infectious personality, Bonang Matheba is the ultra, modern African feminist. She lives by her own rules yet understands how to impact people with her brand. When I grow up, I will be Bonang Matheba.
2. Trevor Noah
To me, he's husbae, (dans ma réve!) While we discuss the 'daywalker's' attractiveness, I'm actually drawn to his witty humour and intelligence. But that's not what makes him my inspiration. Trevor Noah has a unique story which he penned down in the award winning autobiography, 'Born A Crime.' He is one of Africa's most prized exports. He is the host of the most coveted talk show in the USA. Imagine a mixed race man from South Africa taking over 'The Daily Show'? I respect his ability to assimilate into American culture and politics. He has shown flexibility and that he's well READ! His skills have been rewarded with nominations and accolades including NAACP awards. I would pay for a masterclass by Trevor Noah. The topic: 'How to penetrate the international market as an African.'
3. Danai Gurira
I have been rooting for Danai Gurira forever! I recall arguing with people about Zimbabweans in the diaspora to celebrate. I was team Danai all the way. I knew of Danai as a playwright through my grand uncle, who is a playwright himself. Her work gave me goals and when I then saw the buzz around her as she cast in, 'The Walking Dead', I was sold. Kudos to her being a melanin queen kicking ass in Hollywood. In an industry where colourism is predominant, she hasn't bleached her skin. Danai is kicking down doors and shooting for the stars in her natural skin. She's my ideal, standard of black beauty - CONFIDENT. She is definitely black girl magic! She’s made history so far in her career. In 2016, she made Broadway history with her play, 'Eclipsed'. The play had an all black, female cast while the crew was all female. In 2018, she was the first black, female actress to win the 'Best Superhero' award at the People’s Choice awards. As an activist, she was named a UN ambassador. I hope to be privy of queen Danai, be it a one-to-one interview with her, or to shadow her as a writer, actress and activist.
4. Fela Kuti
Before AKA dressed, 'Fela in Versace', or Wizkid, or D'banj, we had Fela Kuti. Father to entertainer, Femi Kuti, Fela is G.O.A.T (greatest of all times). The Nigerian legend was eccentric, a total rock star and an activist. He wasn't just an entertainer, he challenged the status quo. He is the forefather of Afro beats as well as Afro Pop music. Fela inspires me to step out and speak out. The man, the music and the African in the late legend shows a powerful side of not only Nigerian history, but the continent at large.
5. Stephen Chifunyise
When my professional writing and spoken word career began, I wanted to build my name on my own merit. Fortunately, I have created my own lane. Now, I can openly speak about the influential forces supporting my work. Behind the scenes, I have been blessed to have my grand uncle, Stephen Chifunyise to cheer me on. Affectionately known as uncle Steve, he has been instrumental in the development of Zimbabwean literature, arts and culture. He is the founder of the Children's Performing Arts Workshop (CHIPAWO). The platform has groomed several talented creatives whilst preserving our cultural heritage. Uncle Steve is part of many boards that spearhead and promote cultural exchanges between Zimbabwe and the world. He has worked with Culture Fund, NAMA, and HIFA, to name but a few. We can thank him and Davis Guzha for Theatre in the Park, located at the Harare Gardens. They created a legacy for theatre. An award winning playwright and author, Uncle Steve is loved by the vazukurus (grandchildren). He is a great storyteller who upholds oral tradition. On this list, I am blessed that he's one famous person that I know, (and related to). I carry the legacy of the reading and writing culture clearly through my DNA. I am encouraged to be the best writer that I can be because I am endorsed by one of the greatest writers. Stephen Chifunyise isn't just my inspiration, he's my hero! (Sheds a tear).
Past, present and future, Africa is in good hands. My top 5 are individuals who invested time and passion before reaching out to other nations. I hope that the Africans that inspire you, rouse action for you to be great!
Live to inspire and let God take you higher!
P.S. Always write your own love story!
Ciao!
Lady E
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