Made By Africa, Loved By The World: Celebrating Talents Shaping Global Culture

In an era of digital connectivity and cultural exchange, African talent has emerged as a powerful force in shaping global trends. From social media influencers and artists to musicians and models, these individuals have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique skills, creativity, and passion. This article highlights the remarkable journeys and achievements of some of these inspiring individuals from different parts of Africa; as they ride on the wings of social media in shaping the journeys of Africa’s “rising stars”.
These individuals have not only made a mark in their respective fields but have also become icons of African talent that are loved and celebrated around the world.

Enioluwa Adeoluwa: Redefining Fashion Influence
Enioluwa Adeoluwa, also known as Beauty Boy or Lipgloss Eni, has established himself as a social media and brand influencer in the fashion industry. With a remarkable portfolio that includes collaborations with renowned brands like Fenty, MAC, and Crocs, Enioluwa has garnered attention and built a devoted following. His content’s virality and high engagement have earned him prestigious awards and recognition, including being appointed as a European Union-Africa Ambassador.

Adesokan Emmanuel (Shank Comics): Spreading Laughter Through Skits
Adesokan Emmanuel, popularly known as Shank Comics, has become a household name in Nigerian comedy and skit-making. Through his relatable and engaging content, Shank Comics has amassed a loyal following and gained recognition as an emerging force in the Nigerian entertainment industry. His collaboration with brands and other skit-makers has further solidified his status as a comedic talent to be reckoned with.

Jacqueline Acheampong (Gyakie): A Rising Star in Afrobeats
Gyakie, the Ghanaian singer, songwriter, and performer, has taken the Afrobeats genre by storm with her infectious melodies and relatable lyrics. Her breakout hit single, “Forever,” went viral and catapulted her to international acclaim. Gyakie’s ability to connect with young listeners and her pride in her Ghanaian heritage has made her a beloved figure in the music industry. Her numerous awards, including “Best International Collaboration” at the VGMA, further solidify her position as a rising star.

Fhatuwani Mukheli: Capturing Essence through Visual Arts
Fhatuwani Mukheli, a South African visual artist, photographer, and filmmaker, has made a name for himself through his evocative artworks. Inspired by his childhood experiences, Fhatuwani’s work explores the relationship between parent and child and aims to heal people through visual arts. His collaborations with major brands and his global exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale, have cemented his status as an influential figure in the art world.

Qhamanande Maswana: Depicting Women’s Strength and African Heritage
Qhamanande Maswana, a South African artist, channels his passion for his African heritage through his art. His captivating depictions of women and his emphasis on daily life and cultural pride have garnered attention locally and internationally. Maswana’s recent billboard exhibition in Los Angeles showcases his commitment to celebrating diversity and the collective human experience through his art.

Olivia Yace: Embodying Ivorian Beauty and Empowerment
Olivia Yace, crowned Miss Ivory Coast 2021 and Miss World Africa, represents the epitome of Ivorian beauty and empowerment and also represents the image of modern female Ivorian youth. Her outfits, handcrafted by Ivorian artisans, powerfully express the diversity and richness of Ivorian culture. Olivia’s academic achievements and career success, coupled with her ambition and hard work, embody the values of the modern Ivorian woman.

KO-C: Redefining Afropop
KO-C, the Cameroonian musician, has charmed fans with his distinctive fusion of Afropop and hip-hop. Embracing social media platforms like Instagram, he reached a wider audience and transcended geographical boundaries. His breakout single, “Balancé,” gained immense popularity, earning him the Best New Artist award at the 2018 Balafon Music Awards. KO-C’s success showcases how social media democratises the industry, allowing artists to showcase their talent and build a fan base regardless of background. With lyrics that reflect everyday life struggles, alongside a unique blend of humour, intelligence, and relatable lyrics, this resonates deeply with his fans. He has also used his platform to promote humanitarian causes, demonstrating the positive impact of social media beyond promotion.

Fena Gitu: The Urban Soul Sensation Redefining African Music
From Kenya to the world, Fena Gitu has made significant strides in the music industry, and social media has played a pivotal role in her journey to success. As a renowned “Urban Soul” singer, songwriter, and producer, Fena has utilised platforms like Instagram to share her infectious energy and groundbreaking music. Her collaborations with local and global artists have further amplified her reach, transcending borders and captivating audiences beyond Kenya. By harnessing the power of social media, Fena Gitu has become an emblem of African musical prowess, challenging stereotypes and proving that talent knows no boundaries. In 2017, she emerged as the second runner-up in the Women in Business Awards.

Henry Ohanga(Octopizzo): A Beacon of Change through Creativity
Popularly known as Octopizzo, he was born and raised in Kibera. He rose to prominence through social media, using it as a platform to share his music and connect with a global audience. His soul-stirring performances and thought-provoking lyrics resonated with people worldwide. Octopizzo’s Instagram account became a hub for discussing crucial social issues such as poverty, inequality, and youth empowerment.
In 2015, he established the Octopizzo Foundation, leveraging creativity, art, music, culture, and sports to empower vulnerable youths and break the cycle of desperation. Octopizzo’s brand ambassadorships with Coca-Cola, Safaricom, and Guinness further expanded his reach and collaborations.

He initiated Artists for Refugees, partnering with UNHCR to raise awareness and support refugee artists in Kenya, showcasing their talents and stories. Octopizzo’s advocacy for youth empowerment and artistic expression has led to collaborations with global organisations like the United Nations and the British Council.
From the slums of Kibera to international recognition, Octopizzo exemplifies the power of social media in transforming lives.

Only recently these young and aspiring individuals have been nominated for the *”Made by Africa, Loved by The World” campaign* which highlights the remarkable achievements of African talents who have embraced social media as a catalyst for their success. The stories of Qhamanande Maswana, Fena Gitu, and Adesokan Emmanuel exemplify how these rising stars have harnessed the power of platforms like Instagram and Facebook to amplify their voices, redefine African narratives, and foster global connections.