Wednesday 30 November 2011

Your Pity Is No Longer Required

I have been trying to describe to myself and others what this blog is about but having just discovered an article by Jonathan Klan on your pity is no longer required, somehow took the words out of my mouth. He could not have said it more brilliantly. Too often the stories coming out of Africa are negative but through the blog i aim to show that there is much more to the beautiful continent than is shown on western media.

"By sharing stories of social entrepreneurs, social businesses or enterprises, or simply young entrepreneurs in the developing world who blazing their own paths out of poverty, i am hoping to shift away from the common mistake of simply documenting 'poverty', towards documenting 'potential'. That in my opinion, will have a much greater impact on the global narrative and western perspectives of these emerging economies".

The article captures the importance of seeing hope and the vast potential that is in Africa as opposed to focusing on the tired old stereotypes. He tells the story of what is happening in Lagos, Nairobi, Freetown and various other cities. From hardworking students to ambitious entrepreneurs to aspiring leaders, ordinary Africans are working hard to create a great future for the continent.

"So let's end this pity party and start focusing on the real problems, real solutions, and real narratives of the countries. It will be a welcomed change, i promise".

Tuesday 22 November 2011

MTV - Aliko Dangote

The Forbes article on the wealthiest people in Africa was recently released and it's been getting quite a buzz on the social media sites. The top prize went to Aliko Dangote, a Nigerian business man the head of the cement and food company dangote group. Africa's wealthiest man just featured on an MTV Base series offering advice to aspiring young entrepreneurs on succeeding in business. This looks like a great initiative by MTV, which needs to happen more often, where African leader's men and women can sit with the young and offer them words of wisdom.

Watch the interview on here


Friday 11 November 2011

"I dream of an Africa which is in peace with itself"
- Nelson Mandela