On 25th May countries across Africa and the world will celebrate "Africa Day”. On 25th May 1963 the Organization of African Unity (OAU) was founded at a conference hosted by Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. The OAU was the precursor of the African Union (AU) and it initially set out to decolonize Angola, Mozambique, South Africa and Southern Rhodesia. This date has been celebrated ever since to commemorate African unity against oppression and to celebrate African cultures and peoples. What better time to celebrate the African women who inspire us? We all have role models and I am no different. This week I want to introduce you to three amazing African women and explain why they inspire me.
The authenticity of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The Nigerian-born author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie famous for novels like Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, is an inspiration to many. When reading her books or watching her TED Talks there is something very constant that emerges: Chimamanda is not afraid to share her truth.
She stresses the importance of context, diverse voices and the importance of hearing different stories portraying different perspectives. She is not afraid to tackle difficult topics like ‘race’ and ‘feminism’ and does so artfully whether it is in writing or during her famous talks. Proud of her Igbo accent she cherishes it as a part of her identity. Finally, if wanting to have the same rights and opportunities as men makes her a feminist, then so be it. She is in her own words, a "happy African feminist, who does not hate men, who likes lip gloss, and who wears high heels for herself (but not for men)”.
"It’s not your job to be likable. It’s your job to be yourself. Someone will like you anyway.”
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie