Iyeoka Ivie Okoawo: “Moving the world one poem at a time”.
Iyeoka Ivie Okoawo is a Nigerian-American award winning poet and the lead vocalist for the music group, Iyeoka & the Rock By Funk Tribe. She has a voice that is so organic, and powerful beyond measure. Iyeoka has shared the stage with great artists including Musiq Soul Child, Zap Mama, Gil Scot Heron, Sonia Sanchez, and Chuck D of Public Enemy. She is truly a poet with a purpose greater than what meets the eye.
‘I want to sit on a mountain top and write’- Kojo Baffoe
“My poetry is deep…so deep it echoes words infinitely…so deep it drowns simple minds in tears…so deep it solves Africa’s problems in one verse…so deep it transcends racism and breaks down sexism.” This is how Kojo Baffoe, a dynamic African writer/poet and media consultant chooses to define his work in ‘The power of po’ taken from his book, ‘Voices in My Head – a collection of poetry’.
Born in Munich, Germany to a Ghanaian father and German mother, Kojo spent his formative years on the streets of Maseru, Lesotho; spent some time in Germany to get in touch with his Germanic roots; and ended up receiving his Bachelor of Commerce at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The well-travelled and vastly knowledgeable Kojo has since had varied working experiences in a number of sectors including IT, fashion and cosmetics, and publishing. However, Kojo is more famed for his amazing gift of writing, whether as a poet or a writer of lifestyle issues and popular culture. He currently lives with his lovely wife and son in Johannesburg, where he is often referred to as ‘the love poet’. Jamati.com spoke to the ever-growing and ever-innovative writer/poet and media consulting extraordinaire about his life, poetry and gift as a writer. » Read more…
Olumide Popoola- “More than just a poetess”
Olumide Popoola is a Nigerian/German poetess who has resided in the outskirts of India, Netherlands, London, Nigeria, South Africa and Germany in her pursuit for knowledge. Her welcoming voice, profound writing, and her passion to speak up about matters affecting the society has earned her numerous titles in the media stadium. Olumide’s Ayurvedic medicine background (an Indian healing way of life) , has proven that she is more than just another poetess but a soul bigger than her own self. We caught up with the poetess just to have her shed some light on her journey. Enjoy!
Nana Awere Damoah: Excursions In My Mind
It’s always exciting to discover new authors, especially when they have something to say. So, my curiosity peaked when I came across Excursions In My Mind, by Nana Awere Damoah. A newly-published author, Nana describes his book as “bite-sized essays about . . . family, schooling, reflections on key issues: self-help, leadership, love for parents, nature of friendship, and partnership with Jesus.” Intrigued, I decided to talk to Nana for a preview of what readers can expect if they accept his invitation to go on an excursion in his mind.
Queendom: Musical Divas Straight Outta Oslo (Norway)
A hilarious, entertaining black female group with a message to deliver.
Queendom is the name of a live entertainment group from Norway which consists of five talented black women. They are first generation Norwegians, with mixed backgrounds, collectively representing Ethiopia, Uganda, Trinidad, Nigeria and Gambia. Being of mixed descent, living in Norway and having the passion for drama, drew these women together.
I Am Poetry
My mind body and soul always screaming out “pen and paper!”
And never will I ignore that calling…
From my fingers gripping the ball point pen
To the inkjet spitting out my thoughts and emotions
Onto that A4 sheet
Like a snake’s fangs spitting venom into its prey’s blood
My words are like the rush of that venom straight to your heart
Because they carry passion, emotion and struggle
So intense that they will touch your heart
Can you already feel me? » Read more…
Nonini – Arguably ” The King Of Genge Music”
This is one man who needs no introduction in the Kenyan music industry. Nonini is dubbed “The African King of Genge music” ( ‘Genge’ a Swahili word meaning ‘masses’). First I must admit that because of my below average Swahili , it took me some time to fully tap into his music and allow my musical self to indulge in a Nonini musical experience but as soon as I successfully got through the first track from his latest album “Hanyaring Game“, I was hooked. “Hanyaring Game” is a a love experience from the first meeting of his Nairobi girl, through the courting stages, to him realizing that she might just be the potential life partner. But before taking the ultimate step they endure hardships that unexpectedly reveal an interesting ending to their union.
It is always exciting to witness a hardcore artist like Nonini letting loose and letting society know that even guys like him go through love and that its okay to get “whipped” at times. The rest of the songs in his 14-track album are dedicated to paying tribute to those who have passed, including his brother, and musical legends who have passed on. The last track on the album is a celebration of his journey in the industry from his starting point to his achievements. » Read more…
Liberian Author Travels With Her People Down Redemption Road
Not many first novels feature a foreword by the President of the author’s country. But Liberian author Elma Shaw’s Redemption Road: the Quest for Peace and Justice in Liberia, opens with a Foreword by Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. An endorsement of such gravitas puts a lot of pressure on a book to be good, and Redemption Road more than meets the challenge. Redemption Road is the recounting of Liberia’s process of healing from the wounds of its civil war and the efforts of the nation and its people to rebuild themselves individually and collectively. Through the eyes of fictional characters who speak the truth of what Liberians experienced during the war and its aftermath, Ms. Shaw shows that she truly understands the restorative power of words. Ms. Shaw spoke to Jamati and other attendees of her book discussion at the Culture Shop in Washington, D.C. about her inspiration and hopes for Redemption Road.
I HAVE ATTUTUDE
I HAVE ATTUTUDE
(This poem was created to remind African women of their glory) » Read more…
African Events Calendar
Upcoming Events
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June 22 - 24, 2010
2010 Africa Business Conference and Trade Fair
USA - North East
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July 10, 2010
Talent-ED
USA - North East
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March 22, 2010
A “Tribute to Mama Afrika: Miriam Makeba”
USA - North East
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July 14 - 17, 2010
Africa Fashion Week New York (AFWNY) in New York
USA - North East
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