Unveiling a Remarkable Narrative
In the midst of Africa’s rising stars, a tapestry of narratives unfolds, defying stereotypes and illuminating the continent’s immense potential. During the Unstoppable Africa Summit, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, a group of young African women trailblazers defied conventions and unveiled a powerful narrative that reimagines Africa’s global influence.
Meet the Incredible Africans
Allow us to introduce three Incredible Africans: dynamic young African women who are at the forefront of reshaping Africa’s global narrative. They usher in an era that celebrates innovation, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of a continent on the cusp of transformation.
Chido Mpemba – A Voice for Africa’s Youth
Chido Mpemba, the youngest appointed senior official in the history of the African Union and the youngest diplomat in the cabinet, embodies the boundless potential of Africa’s youth. She tirelessly advocates for amplifying the voices and aspirations of Africa’s young generation. Mpemba acknowledges the continent’s challenges but firmly believes that these obstacles should never overshadow the rightful place of young Africans on the global stage.
Advocating for Global Contribution
“As much as we still have our challenges in Africa that we’re trying to solve, it doesn’t mean that young Africans do not deserve to be on the global stage,” passionately declared Mpemba during the session. She emphasized the need for young Africans to contribute not only to the continent but also to global development. Many young minds, she noted, are not reaching their full potential due to environmental factors and a lack of opportunities across the continent.
Deniece Laurent-Mantey – Bridging Continents
Deniece Laurent-Mantey, Special Advisor on the Implementation of the U.S. Africa’s Leaders Summit at the U.S. State Department and former Director of Africa at the White House, brings a unique perspective. Growing up with strong connections to both Ghana and the United States, she is committed to fostering collaboration and uniting Africans and African Americans. Laurent-Mantey’s insights resonate deeply with Africa’s youth, who are eager to embrace their heritage while forging new global connections.
The Currency of Our Generation
“The currency of our generation is Africa’s innovation,” she emphasized. She highlighted the thriving creative sector and the importance of empowering young leaders to address global challenges. Laurent-Mantey stressed the significance of safeguarding Africa’s culture and heritage, noting the world’s growing interest in them.
Areej Noor – Building an Inclusive Global Community
Born to a prominent global women’s rights activist turned political strategist, Somali-American Areej Noor was deeply inspired to create an inclusive global community of influential African women creatives. Consequently, her mission is to bridge the gap between African and diaspora women filmmakers and the international market through her company, Statement.
Nurturing African Creativity
“It’s abundantly clear that the creative talent on the continent is truly unmatched,” declared Noor passionately. She highlighted the incredible developments across the creative spectrum but emphasized the need for strategic partnerships and infrastructure development to realize long-term goals.
Partnerships for Progress
In a continent brimming with potential, partnerships, particularly with African institutions, are vital catalysts for progress. These collaborations lay the foundation for sustainability and local ownership of Africa’s narratives, fostering growth and development that resonate locally and globally.
Investing in Youth
At the core of this evolving narrative lies the incredible potential of African youth, serving as the driving force to propel transformation. Notably, organizations such as the Mastercard Foundation, co-creator of the Incredible Africans session, are wholeheartedly committed to securing employment for 30 million young Africans by 2030.
This commitment vividly demonstrates the paramount importance of investing in the youth who will undoubtedly shape the future of Africa.
Shaping a Global Landscape
By 2050, one in every four people on Earth will be African, marking a seismic shift that will profoundly impact geopolitics, global economics, trade, migration, and more. Furthermore, with rapidly growing economies and a digitally connected population, young Africans are actively reshaping the global landscape.
Notably, these exceptional young Africans aren’t merely rewriting the continent’s story; instead, they are actively shaping a shared destiny. Their remarkable journeys serve as powerful reminders of Africa’s boundless promise and the limitless possibilities that await the continent.
Inspiring a Bright Future
As we celebrate these extraordinary Africans, their aspirations and achievements not only paint a vivid portrait of a thriving and dynamic Africa but also serve as a compelling reminder. It’s a continent that rightfully demands the world’s attention, where these success stories inspire us all and firmly remind us that Africa’s future is as bright as the dreams we dare to dream.
Sources: THX News & The Mastercard Foundation.
