US Vice President Kamala Harris and Chocolate City Founder, Audu Maikori and have applauded the ingenuity and creativity of young African leaders during his remarks at the ongoing US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC.

Maikori emphasised the importance of young African leaders taking ownership of their narratives and using the power of the arts to shape their countries’ futures, while moderating a panel at the African and Diaspora Young Leaders Forum, which took place on December 13, 2022, at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.

The forum’s theme was “Owning the Narrative- Film, Television, and Music Engines for Culture, Economy, and Growth”.

Maikori, a leading figure in the African entertainment industry, led discussions on the role of film, television, and music in driving economic growth and cultural exchange in Africa.

He said: “We must not allow others to dictate how Africa is perceived and portrayed. It is up to us to create our own stories and tell them in a way that is authentic and meaningful to our people and the world.”

While giving the keynote speech at the forum, US Vice President Kamala Harris said: “I strongly believe that the creativity and ingenuity of Africa’s young leaders will help us shape the future of the world and that their ideas, innovations and initiatives will benefit the entire world.”

Speaking further about the forum, Maikori said: “I am honoured to be selected as the moderator of this important forum,” said Maikori. As a young African leader, I am committed to using my platform to advance the narrative of our continent and its people. Through the power of storytelling, we can showcase the rich diversity, talent, and potential of Africa and the diaspora to the world.”

The forum featured panel discussions with top African and Diaspora leaders in the entertainment industry, including IrokoTV Boss Jason Njoku, Ojoma Ochai, Managing Partner CcHub and filmmaker Amarachi Nwosu. Other panellists at the forum included entertainment industry stakeholders from Africa and in the diaspora.

The African and Diaspora Young Leaders Forum brought together young entertainment industry professionals across Africa and the diaspora to share their experiences, challenges, and opportunities and develop strategies for driving change and progress.

Maikori’s participation in the forum reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting and promoting the arts in Africa. Through his work with Chocolate City Group, he has helped launch the careers of numerous successful African artists and fostered the growth of the African entertainment industry.