About the series

The Africa Center’s creatives spotlight series aims to highlight creative industries on the continent by showcasing artists who are driving positive change during unprecedented challenges such as health and migration crises, economic uncertainty, and a changing climate. The episodes—by capturing the creative processes and community impact of musicians, photographers, fashion designers, dancers, filmmakers, and more—aim to redefine dominant narratives about Africa, direct investment toward local communities, and demonstrate the boundless potential of African creativity. Tune in here or on ACTV to catch each new episode.

Keynotes

US Congressman John James—who is also the chair of the Africa Subcommittee on the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs—sent in his remarks to kick off the Africa Center’s African Creatives Spotlight series, highlighting emerging artistic talent and creativity across Africa.

Acting US Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Lee Satterfield, joined the African Creatives Spotlight series to talk about the important role of Africa’s creative industries, highlighting the growth potential the sector represents.  

Featured Artists

African creatives

Aug 29, 2024

ESPN Host and two-time WNBA All-Star Chiney Ogwumike champions African diaspora engagement through sports and media 

By Africa Center

Ogwumike is a Nigerian-American powerhouse redefining the intersection of sports and media and highlighting the important role of the diaspora in shaping the future of the African continent.

Africa Economy & Business

African creatives

Jun 7, 2024

Cultural curator Abdul Karim Abdullah elevates African culture from the Bronx to Ghana 

By Africa Center

As founder and chief executive officer of AfroFuture Fest and Culture Management Group, Abdul Karim Abdullah is creating opportunities for the diaspora to celebrate African culture at a festival in West Africa.

Africa Economy & Business

African creatives

May 1, 2024

Creative visionary Elroy Fillis-Bell showcases the impact of dance across the continent 

By Africa Center

Joburg Ballet Chief Executive Officer Elroy Fillis-Bell is an advocate for the arts and believes that dance provides a unique way for communities to engage

Africa Economy & Business

African creatives

Mar 13, 2024

Trailblazing Ivorian executive Laureen Kouassi-Olsson invests in Africa’s heritage fashion brands

By Africa Center

Birimian Ventures Founder and Chief Executive Officer Laureen Kouassi-Olsson champions the transformation of African creativity into an economic force.

Africa Economy & Business

African creatives

Dec 18, 2023

World-renowned Nigerien designer Alphadi spotlights African fashion on the global stage 

By Africa Center

Alphadi calls upon global investors to commit to financing for Africa’s creative sector, seeing fashion as a tool for development and opportunity for young people on the continent.

African creatives

Nov 6, 2023

Grammy award-winning musician Mohombi inspires youth in Democratic Republic of the Congo

By Africa Center

Singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur Mohombi discusses his journey as a Congolese-Swedish artist and the importance of investing in African creative youth.

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The Africa Center works to promote dynamic geopolitical partnerships with African states and to redirect US and European policy priorities toward strengthening security and bolstering economic growth and prosperity on the continent.