Introducing OkayAfrica's 100 Women 2019 List

Our annual celebration of incredible African women

Calling on the spirit of their ancestors before them, generations of young people have historically been able to overcome insurmountable challenges to push the culture forward. What's more, young women are not only the backbone of each movement for change and progress, they are the executors and the soul.

Nigerian women's right activist Funmilayo Ransome Kuti was only in her 20s when she organized literacy classes for women, a pathway that eventually led to her playing an integral role in women's right to vote. South Africa's Prudence Mabele was just 22 years old when, in 1992, she decided to publicly disclose her HIV status—the first Black woman in South Africa to do so—to create and promote policy that would support women living with the virus. A number of African youth around the continent, some even younger, have literally put their bodies and freedoms on the line to create more inclusive spaces. More lucrative opportunities. More accessible education.


SEE THE ENTIRE 100 WOMEN 2O19 LIST HERE

It is why this year, we have dedicated the OkayAfrica 100 Women list to those daughters who embody the fortitude of their continental mothers, paired with a sovereignty that is wholly unique to today's youth culture. Freedom of minds, agency over our bodies, and equity for all is not a choice. It's the only way.

Youth culture, as we interpret it, does not subscribe to the idea that those who are participants are young in their stage of life. This list of women—carefully curated from over 500 nominations—is one that spans over two generations of changemakers and is not beholden to age. These are individuals who are both youth peers actively working to undo generational oppression in all forms and women who have dedicated their lives to investing in young people.

As much as the world has relied on a reserve of young people to progress, we, as a global nation, have forgotten to pour back into them. Africa, as always, has the most potential for exponential growth and change of any of the continents. We have the resources and the minds. With the youngest population in the world, progression is inevitable. But with many of our young people still underserved in many areas, we must continue to empower, bankroll, educate, and provide opportunity.

That's exactly what this year's list has done.

Honorees like Ghana's outspoken model Adwoa Aboah—who has created a safe online community for young girls and women to discuss range of issues from mental health to sexuality—and 18-year-old Olympic short track speed skater Maame Biney are advocating for autonomy through sex positivity and sports.

Fashion designers like Nigeria's 21-year-old Teni (Tia) Adeola of SlashedByTia and south Sudanese beauty blogger Nyma Tang are utilizing the tools of social media to create visibility for young African entrepreneurs like never before.

From Hollywood (Zimbabwe-American Danai Guriraand Senegal's Anna Diop) to literature (Nigerian-American Tomi Adeyemi and Cape Verde's Shauna Barbosa), African women are creating narratives for young Black girls that rival if not surpass mainstream.

And Ilhan Omar, America's first Somali-American Congresswoman (and one of two Muslim Congresswoman) is stoking fire in the U.S. to finally challenge the archaic and white supremacy patriarchy of its government.

These women are disrupting the status quo socially, economically, and politically. They are creating safe spaces for African women globally, driving technological and scientific advancements, pushing for inclusivity in television, film, art and media and steering us toward a more sustainable way of living.

The annual OkayAfrica 100 Women List is our effort to acknowledge and uplift African women, not only as a resource that has and will continue to enrich the world we live in, but as a group that deserves to be recognized, reinforced and treasured on a global scale.

The youth will lead the way. This is our ode to them.

—Christina Coleman

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Photo by Robert Okine/Getty Images

Davido Releases His Highly-Anticipated ‘Timeless’ Album

Afrobeats megastar Davido has released his highly-anticipated fourth studio album Timeless.

After months of anticipation, Afrobeats superstar Davido has finally released his fourth studio album, Timeless.

The album, which is the first since his 2020 album A Better Time, includes 17 tracks featuring music heavyweights like the legendary Angelique Kidjo, Asake, Skepta, The Cavemen, and more. The album also includes the smash hit “Champion Sound,” which features Amapiano frontrunner Focalistic.

Timeless is Davido’s first album following his long hiatus from the limelight. After the loss of his three-year-old son Ifeanyi Adeleke—and his social media pause—fans poured out love to the artist in droves. In many ways, Timeless is a sonic resurgence of the “FEM” singer, albeit in a more seasoned way. With Timeless, Davido peels back another layer to his artistry, showcasing his ability to evolve as an entertainer.

The album also arrives on the heels of Davido’s revelation that he had married longtime sweetheart Chioma Rowland. During an interview with actress Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, he said:

“Just being away, you know I have had a lot to think about definitely. Time to rest, reflect on a lot of family time and time to make music again. You know, I remade the album. Before I went on a break I actually had an album ready... I had a tour ready. You know we did the album. I traveled. It was crazy. I’m married. A lot of different things but yeah, we are ready now to get back on the road. The album is out, it’s amazing.”

A day before the album’s release, Davido partnered with Spotify to release an exclusive trailer.

In a statement about the album roll out, Victor Okpala, Spotify’s Artist and Labels Partnerships Manager for West Africa, said that the platform was excited to support the album.

“This release is a much anticipated moment for one of African music’s greatest ambassadors of the digital era,” Okpala said. “Spotify is committed to providing a platform for global audiences to connect with African content and we are glad to support Davido as he achieves another milestone.”

Exciting things are in store for the Davido Music Worldwide boss, who also recently signed two new artists, Morravey and Logos Olori, to his DMW record label.

Stream the new album below.

Timeless


Timeless by Davido


Timeless by Davidomusic.apple.com


Music
Photo Credit: Wizkid's YouTube

Watch Wizkid’s Glitzy New Video For ‘Money And Love’

Afrobeats singer Wizkid has released the music video for his song “Money and Love.”

Nigerian superstar and Grammy award-winning artist Wizkid has just released a new music video for his song “Money and Love.” The DK- directed music video features vibrant colors and beautiful people. In November last year, the “Essence” crooner treated fans to his highly anticipated fifth studio album, More Love, Less Ego. “Money and Love” is one of the album's top tracks. Wizkid —who is also known as “Machala '' by his loyal fan base, Wizkid FC — displays his suave star power and swagger in the music video.

Throughout his career, Wiz has garnered a reputation for taking his time with his art, and this music video reflects that. The offering is a deliberate and well done visual output that showcases his ability to be chill, yet intentional about whatever project he puts his name on.

Over the years, the “Bad to Me” singer has been known to use a blended aesthetic of urban energy and relaxed, Afro-centric glamor in his visuals. In “Money and Love,” Wiz leans into that same urban energy by basking in vibrant colors and dynamic camera angles.

Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, first caught his big break in 2010, and has come a long way since his "Holla at Your Boy” days. He has since released several successful singles and albums, including Superstar (2011), Ayo (2014), Sounds from the Other Side (2017), Made in Lagos (2020), and More Love, Less Ego (2022). He has also collaborated with several international artists, including Drake, Beyonce, and Skepta.

Beyond the release of his recent music video, Wizkid has been booked and busy. The 32-year-old Afrobeats icon will be performing at festivals across Europe and the United States this the summer.

Watch the spanking new video below.

News
Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage

Places in Lagos to Have Fun this Weekend

From sip and paint and artists’ shows, to finger-licking food, here’s the best places to have fun in Lagos this weekend as March wraps up.

March surely took long enough to end, and what better way to see it go out than attend Pheelz’s inaugural appearance at Industry Nite? The producer-singer had an exciting 2022, releasing the chart-topping single "Finesse," and landing his American TV debut on Late Night with Seth Meyers.

He’s one to watch this year, and Industry Nite brings the rising act in the same room with fans. Also watch out for Ric Hassani five-night show run starting on Friday. This weekend's lineup of events has a full-range appeal, so let’s get into it.

Movie in the Park: Vintage Edition

Start the weekend early by catching a movie under the stars. Movie in the Park is returning for the first time in 2022, after making statements last year drawing in crowds with their monthly outdoor movie events. This time around, they will be curating nostalgic moments with their Vintage edition, from the dress code, movie selection and overall ambience.

Thursday, March 30, 5 p.m.

Venue: Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island

Cost: N3k

Musical stage play at Terra Kulture

With Easter just around the corner, Terra Kulture will showcase a musical stage play titled "The Witness." It will look at the arrest, trial, and suffering of Jesus Christ through the eyes of Cladia, the wife of Pontius Pilate, the Roman who sentenced him to death. The Witness is put together by Ornaments Production in collaboration with Young and Gifted Academy.

As with all theater productions showcased at Terra Kulture, this is one that shouldn’t be missed. It runs for two days, with flexible time too.

Friday & Saturday, March 31 & April 1, 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Venue: Plot 1376, Tiamiyu Savage, Victoria Island

Cost: from N10K (early bird)

Weekends with Ric Hassani

Picking up from last year’s One Night Only, Ric Hassani is about to hop on a stretch of shows that will see him perform every weekend in April. Starting this Friday, the Gentleman singer will serenade fans with a medley of his songs and perhaps tease some new stuff. It’s for a small crowd (70 people), so making reservations is advised.

Friday, March 31, 9 p.m.

Venue: Live Lounge, No 15, Idejo Street, Victoria Island

Cost: Free

Burger Games at Burger King

Courtesy of Coca Cola, which means free drinks, Burger King is making space for games to be played alongside their delicious burgers. There’s also a chance to win goody bags from Burger King, meet people and network. Registration for this event is compulsory because limited seats are available.

Friday, March 31, 6 p.m.

Venue: 11b, Victoria Arobieke, Lekki Phase 1

Cost: Free

The Big Birthday Bash

Imagine having your birthday hosted for you with celebrities that share your birthday turning up? And with food, drinks, games, and music as well? That’s the whole gamut of The Big Birthday Bash, which happens every month. This time, February and March birthday celebrants will take center stage, with DJ Calix Jiggy and DJ Tosan Wiltshire on the turntable.

Friday, March 31, 7 p.m.

Venue: Bayroot Lounge, Victoria Island

Cost: N5K

Live Band Night at Beeriga

Have a calming view of the Lagos Lagoon while enjoying live music from Cool Ice Band. From highlife, and alternative blues to your favourite Nigerian hit songs, soak yourself into the sea ambiance with great music and food.

Saturday, April 1, 7 p.m.

Venue: Bariga Waterfront Jetty, Ijaje, Bariga

Cost: Free

Book Swap at Roving Heights

Bookstore Roving Heights is resuming its tradition of book swapping among customers. Old books across fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and so on can be exchanged for old titles. There will be music and snacks, and a chance to network. Roving Heights will also be giving away free old books.

Saturday, April 1, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Venue: 28, Ogunlana Drive, Surulere

Cost: Free

Industry Nite with Pheelz

More than a decade being Nigeria’s longest-running performance event for new and established artists, rising Afrobeats act and producer Pheelz headlines the next showcase for Industry Nite. With his debut project, Pheelz Good, released after a string of hits, the Lagos-based singer will perform tracks from the EP and show the audience a good time.

Saturday, April 1, 8 p.m.

Venue: Bayroot Bar & Lounge, Victoria Island

Cost:5K

Sip and Paint

The rise of sip-and-paint events, especially in Lagos, has broken the echo chamber of traditional outings. Sure, there are quite a few things that can be improved in that space, but in the meantime, Alali Studio is hosting a sip-and-paint session under the guidance of professional painters. The experience comes with any beverage of your choice.

Saturday, April 1, 4:30 p.m.

Venue: 32, Musa Yar'adua Victoria Island

Cost: N20K

BBQ wings at Maple Lagos

Though a full-fledged restaurant with starter and main-course dishes, BBQ wings at Maple Lagos is particularly one to try out. Having seen improvement over time, the wings are sweet, sticky, spicy, and fall off the bone. It also packs in some heat, but this can be adjusted to personal taste. Comes with a side of French fries and grilled corn.

Venue: 9, Otunba Adedoyin Crescent, Lekki

Cost: Free

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