Discover the outstanding profile of Teinye Boyle Téinye Boyle Profession: Social, Creative & Cultural Entrepreneur Country of Origin: Nigeria Biggest achievement: Discovering myself as a "Multipod", and relaxing into the idea that i could become more than one thing, and be exceptional at it all. Favorite quote : “I’d rather be WORTH-KNOWING than WELL-KNOWN” Best talent: Discernment www.teinyeboyle.com T einye Boyle is not easily categorised and he has never wanted to be. A social entrepreneur, creative director, life coach, author, and event architect, he moves across disciplines with a rare fluency, guided by a central conviction: that the African creator's goal is not to fit into existing structures, but to build an entirely new path. Born in Nigeria and rooted in the Ijaw identity he carries with quiet pride, documented through his personal lens project #IjawBoyInTransit, Teinye has spent years proving that a multiplicity of passions is not a liability. It is a superpower. The term he uses for himself is Multipod: someone whose many gifts, rather than pulling them in opposite directions, converge into something greater than the sum of their parts. His personal insights, journey, vision...here narrated to us in his own voice and with his own words: " For years, I have navigated the creative world as a 'multipod'‚ a talent with multiple passions that refused to be siloed. My journey, captured through the lens of #IjawBoyInTransit , is a mission to prove that for the African creator, the goal is not to fit into existing structures but to build an entirely new path using African grit, soul, and identity as our primary fuel. “The goal is not to fit into existing structures but to build an entirely new path using African grit, soul, and identity as our primary fuel." This vision found its most prestigious expression in Creative Innovation through the founding of Afri-Ball . What began as a regional spark has evolved into a national event phenomenon‚ an annual Pan-African charity gala that serves as the premier platform for honoring 'unapologetic African excellence.' By hosting the Creators‚ Awards alongside Afri-Ball 2026 in Newcastle, I have established a dedicated 'table of our own' for creatives in film, music, fashion, and literature who are often overlooked by mainstream industries. “What began as a regional spark has evolved into a national event phenomenon, an annual Pan-African charity gala that serves as the premier platform for honoring unapologetic African excellence." My commitment to Community Impact is rooted in the strategic ecosystem I’ve built around these events. Platforms like Creators' Mix bridge the gap between emerging talent and established professionals, fostering a sustainable community where creators move from being a 'moment' to becoming a 'movement.' As a life coach and author of Black Multipod, I further this impact by helping individuals break the 'shackles of indecision' to birth careers that embrace their full potential. “By advocating for African stories as central, not peripheral, to global culture, I am dedicated to a legacy that ensures the next generation of diaspora creatives are both well-known and, more importantly, worth knowing." As an Entrepreneurial Trailblazer, I have transitioned Afri-Ball CIC into a high-growth social enterprise and a vital bridge between the African diaspora and the global stage. By advocating for African stories as central‚ not peripheral‚ to global culture, I am dedicated to a legacy that ensures the next generation of diaspora creatives are both well-known and, more importantly, worth knowing . " For Teinye, the legacy is clear: a world where the next generation of diaspora creatives are not merely well-known, but worth knowing and where the structures that celebrate them are ones they built themselves. Outstanding Story

Laure a.k.a "Mademoiselle Fesch" Country of Origin: France Biggest achievement: My son, he helps me grow every day into a better and more patient person. Favorite quote : "Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak" Best quality: Spreading my energy and enthusiasm to others. My Outstanding Story Bonjour , I'm Laure, your French personal stylist. It's not just about fashion for me—it's about care and dedication to helping you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. How my creative journey started... Growing up, like many, I faced my fair share of bullies. It wasn't easy, and it made me empathize deeply with those who felt out of place due to society's beauty standards. My journey into style and self-expression began around 13 or 14. While everyone else rocked white sneakers, I boldly sported blue ones, refusing to hide who I was. It took me years to embrace my unique path. Even as I dove into personal styling, echoes of my teenage struggles lingered. But life had a funny way of leading me back to my passion. From styling with secondhand clothes for a zero-waste project in Austria to founding Mademoiselle Fesch , my focus has always been on helping women feel amazing in their own skin. Like many in my circle, I have roots from other countries despite being French. My grandfather hailed from southern Portugal. This aspect of my heritage has perhaps influenced my insatiable curiosity about people's lives and experiences. I truly believe there's so much to learn from others if we just keep an open mind. My proudest moment is... I think my proudest moments come from the reviews my customers leave about the service. Also, I won a competition organized by a styling school in Paris (ESR Paris), which was based on the Netflix series "Worn Stories. About my inspirations I don't think I can pinpoint just one person who has inspired me. I've met loads of amazing women in different situations, and it's their ongoing journeys that really get me fired up. Although, I have to say, my grandmother, Marthe, wasn't a businesswoman or anything, but she always encouraged me to push forward. After she passed away, I began delving deeper into my stylist journey. Her death was a wake-up call in various aspect of my life. It started with a blog named after her, and a few years later, I launched my own business. The challenges...we all face them! Here are mines... Before starting my business, I faced my fair share of challenges, mainly stemming from my insecurities. I kept postponing, thinking I could always do better . But eventually, I overcame those doubts. With each step, I grew more confident, realizing the genuine impact I could have on my customers' lives, making them feel good along the way. About engaging with community and contributing to cultural preservation I'm not big on social media, but I thrive in face-to-face interactions. I love meeting people personally through consultations, local events. It's all about connecting on a real level for me . My way to contribute to cultural promotion—keeping it personal and down-to-earth. My aspirations as a Diaspora member I aspire to empower more women in the future by providing them with the tools to manage their image and communicate who they are without fear of judgment. ...an advice for emerging diaspora members: Embrace your uniqueness, for it is the essence of your beauty http://www.mademoiselle-fesch.at

Make a Difference with Your Donation Support Us OBJECTIVES Financial donation to Diaspora Creatives supports initiatives and programs that empower and promotes diaspora creatives and actors of the creative industries in Vienna to advance their projects, make connection, integrate and reinforce the local community. By investing, donors contribute to building and preserving the platform and to creating opportunities for personal and professional growth, community reinforcement, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for diaspora talent. Compasionate Contributor UP TO €50 Pathway Pioneer UP TO €100 Catalyst Champion UP TO €500 Impact Innovator FROM €1000 DISCOVER & SUPPORT OUR DONOR WALL Welcome to our Donor Wall ...a testament to the generosity and dedication of our valued supporters. Here, we honor those whose contributions have propelled our mission forward, fueling initiatives that empower diaspora professionals in Vienna and beyond. This page serves as a tribute to the individuals, organizations, and partners who have invested in our vision of fostering professional growth, fostering meaningful connections, and creating opportunities for success. As you explore this virtual space, you'll discover the names and stories of those who have played a pivotal role in shaping our collective impact. Each name on this wall represents more than just a donation—it symbolizes a commitment to building a more inclusive, supportive, and vibrant community. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have joined us on this journey, standing as beacons of hope and catalysts for positive change. Individual donors Steeve H. Bangaly K. Anonymous Donor - Mazak Organizational donors

"IMMERSIVE": Diaspora Innovative narratives An exhibition event that aims to strengthen the creative contribution of diaspora through film, by highlighting the valued impact they have in shaping cultural narratives in Europe and beyond. ART FOCUS: Film MOVIE: "Dahomey" by Mati Diop SCREENING OF "DAHOMEY" by Mati Diop Mati Diop’s movie documents the return of 26 treasures from the Kingdom of Dahomey to their homeland. These return falls within the recent dialogues and actions around the repatriation of ancient artefacts looted during the colonial era with the Government of Benin being among the countries that initiated the negotiations. These same items, showcased in the documentary film of Mati Diop further raises debates among students at the University of Benin. The movie Dahomey is also the winner of the Golden Bear award at the Berlin Film Festival in 2024. RELEASE & RIGHTS TRAILER An immersive exhibition of innovative narratives by creatives from the Diaspora through film Showcasing this art highlights the contribution of creatives from the diaspora to ignite discussions on important and sometimes political discussions. Watching the movie, we are immersed in the creative process of the producer, the innovative approach to give a voice to the artefacts themselves and the Beninese youths. SPONSORS OF "IMMERSIVE" Join us in acknowledging our sponsors, who make this unique experience possible. Together, we are creating an event that highlights innovation, heritage, and community. Their commitment to cultural diversity and empowerment helps us celebrate the creative contributions of the Diaspora Creatives. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Sypnosis November 2021, twenty-six royal treasures from Dahomey are about to leave Paris for repatriation to their homeland, now Benin. Along with several thousand others, these works were looted during the invasion of French colonial troops in 1892. But how to live with the return of these ancestors in a country that has had to build itself and come to terms with their absence? As the soul of the works is set free, debate rages among students at the University of Abomey Calavi.

Ahmed Tijani Country of Origin: Ghana My Outstanding Story I am Ahmed Tijani Kassim, better known as @africanstjay on my content creation journey, a visionary creative on a mission to empower, inspire and eradicate the negative stereotypes of Africa in the western world and bridge the gap between Africa and other continents through my artistry. Born and raised in Ghana, my journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From a young age, I exhibited a profound love for media broadcasting and creativity, which ultimately led me to start my own company known as Tijani groups, a company which includes Afrocentric clothing production, A natural drink production company, A media creative hub, etc. I studied Textiles Science And Technology With A Speciality in Chemistry for my degree And Currently Studying For MSc in chemical science. I have a deep creative passion in visual art specifically, painting and interest in music My Personal Insights and inspirations... Driven by a deep rooted desire to make a positive impact, I infuse my work with authenticity, empathy, and cultural richness. My unique perspective reflects a fusion of my Ghanaian heritage and global experiences, capturing the essence of humanity in its purest form. Through my art, I strive to break barriers, challenge perceptions, and foster connection across borders. Some cultural and personal influences that play a role in my journey has a lot to do with my background as a member of a royal family in Ghana and my parental upbringing as well. Growing up in a multicultural environment has shaped my artistic style and my desire to explore themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage in my work. One challenge I have encountered in my artistic journey is balancing the expectations of my cultural community with my own creative vision. At times, there is pressure to conform to traditional norms and styles, but I have learned to stay true to my own artistic voice and incorporate elements of my cultural background in a way that feels authentic to me. My aspirations and goals as a diaspora member and creative are to continue creating meaningful and thought-provoking content that resonates with audiences from diverse backgrounds. I hope to use my platform to amplify marginalized voices and bring awareness to important social issues. In the future, I see my work evolving to encompass a wider range of mediums and reaching the world . I aspire to collaborate with other creatives from different backgrounds and cultures to create innovative and impactful projects that challenge societal norms and inspire change. I believe that my unique perspective as a diaspora member will continue to shape my artistic journey and drive me to create work that is both personal and universal in its themes. Holder of prestigious awards... My talent has not gone unnoticed, earning me accolades and recognition on both local and international stages. My innovative approach to entrepreneurship has garnered prestigious awards, including the Ghanaian Creative Excellence Award and the African Artistic Visionary Prize. These honors serve as a testament to my dedication and creativity in pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Project 101 Outreach in Ghana Beyond artistic endeavors, I am a passionate advocate for social change and youth empowerment. Through my groundbreaking initiative, Project 101 Outreach, I am making a tangible difference in the lives of less privileged children across Ghana. By providing access to education, mentorship, and creative resources, Project 101 is breaking the cycle of poverty and nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators. My journey as @africanstjay embodies the transformative power of creativity and compassion. From humble beginnings in Ghana 🇬🇭 to global impact as a creative force, my story serves as an inspiration to dreamers and doers everywhere. With each brushstroke and each act of kindness, I continue to leave an indelible mark on the world, shaping a brighter future for generations to come. Connect with me on instagram as AfricansTjay, subscribe to my YouTube channel @africansTjay, check out my business page on instagram: Tijani groups. ...My message for emerging diaspora members: It’s now or never , be authentic to yourself and accept no one’s definition of you. @africansTjay

All events from and by diaspora creators and creatives SAVE THE DATE Diaspora Creatives is finally here and we couldn’t be happier. Take a look at our events as well as the ones organised by and for diaspora creators for details, and make sure to save the date. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events. You can also publish your event on our website below. No events at the moment Want to publish your event on our home page? PUBLISH YOUR EVENT

Directory of creatives from Diaspora in Vienna Welcome to the Diaspora Creatives Directory ABOUT DIRECTORY TO DIRECTORY Vienna - Edition Vienna is home to a thriving community of talented creatives from the diaspora, each bringing their unique perspectives, skills, and artistry. This directory is designed to highlight , connect , and celebrate these incredible talents, making it easier for businesses, collaborators, and art lovers to discover and engage with them. Here, you’ll find a curated list of creatives across various industries, from visual arts and fashion to music, film, design, and more. Whether you’re looking for fresh talent, potential collaborators, or just want to explore the richness of diaspora creativity in Vienna, this is your go-to hub. Navigating the creative map... Find below a curated list of creative industries featuring talented diaspora professionals based in Vienna. DCC Members enjoy enhanced visibility on this platform, with direct links to their portfolios, social media, orprofessional pages. This makes it easier for potential clients and collaborators to explore their work in depth. Other creatives from Diaspora in Vienna are also recognized by listing their names with a short description of their work. While these profiles provide a glimpse of their contributions, full access to portfolio links and networking opportunities is reserved for DC members. PHOTOGRAPY/FILM FASHION TELEVISION/RADIO DIAPORA ORGANIZATIONS GRAPHIC DESIGN THEATRE VIDEO GAMES PAINT/ SULPTURE LITERATURE CULTURAL HERITAGE MUSIC/DANCE DIGITAL ARTS ARCHITECTURE Creatives Directory - Vienna Edition - Only available on desktop Photo and film Photograpy/Film Graphic Design Paint/Sculpture Music/Dance Fashion Theatre Literature Digital Arts Television/Radio Video Games Cultural Heritage Architecture Diaspora Organizations ZAYN / photographer, product designer, gamer Visit work profile Josiana M. / freelance photographer, passionate about revolving film and photography Visit work profile Appreciating Beauty / to us, photography is all about appreciating beauty Visit work profile Elodie Luvenga (@LuvveLovesFood) / food photographer and food stylist working with sustainable brands and restaurants Tayla Myree / a historian, visual artist, and self-proclaimed big-brain girlie based in the interesting city of Vienna Tsepang (Tespa) Malephane / photographer & MultiMedia Designer Minitta Photography / a trained photographer and book designer Diana Bobb / a designer and illustrator - I make ideas visible. Malak Jayeola Aderounmu / into painting/sculpture Diana Bobb / a designer and illustrator - I make ideas visible. Gawdesque / nigerian DJ and poet. Genres include Afrobeats, Amapiano, Baile Funk, Kuduro, LatinTek, Dancehall, Shatta, Bouyon, Coupé Decale, Jersey Club +++ TIWA / artist, musician Evan Parks / artist, rapper and performer WEMIMO / viennese singer-songwriter of Yoruba heritage IMAATU / slow fashion brand stands for high quality, excellent processing and luxury Distance by O / african fashion brand, ready to wear and customs order FASHIONTOURI /FashionTouri’s mission connects travelers with the local creative industry to unite globally and shop locally Visit work profile FAB L'Style /a global publication with a strong focus on fashion, art, beauty, and lifestyle, with a mission to connect creators to the market Visit work profile Tayla Myree / a historian, visual artist, and self-proclaimed big-brain girlie based in the interesting city of Vienna Tayla Myree / a historian, visual artist, and self-proclaimed big-brain girlie based in the interesting city of Vienna Tayla Myree / a historian, visual artist, and self-proclaimed big-brain girlie based in the interesting city of Vienna Tayla Myree / a historian, visual artist, and self-proclaimed big-brain girlie based in the interesting city of Vienna DIASPORA BUSINESS HUB VIENNA / Association for inclusion and participation through entrepreneurship More info... SETI / Promoting women of talent More info... AFRICAN CULTURAL FOUNDATION / A supportive and empowering home for the African community in the Diaspora and Africa More info... W.I.N.A. - Women in Afrofood / Empowering women, elevating afrofood More info... ADYFE - African Diaspora Youth Forum in Europe / A platform of nearly 110 youth organizations of the African Diaspora More info... REGISTER A CRAFT For more information, send an email to: hello@diasporacreatives.com

The Diaspora Creatives (DC) Activities and Impact Overview 2023-2024 Over the past year, DC has connected, empowered, and celebrated diaspora creatives through diverse events, storytelling initiatives, and community-building activities. In this report, you’ll find a snapshot of our achievements, the inspiring initiatives we’ve introduced, and the impact made possible by the continued support of our community. From the Diaspora Outstanding Creatives (DOC) series to memorable events like Creatives’ Date and our One Day As workshop, this report highlights how DC is shaping the future for diaspora creatives. Dive into our journey and discover the milestones we’ve reached together—and join us as we look ahead to new ways of uplifting and connecting our community. DOWNLOAD THE REPORT HERE

Made in Diaspora Art, Between Worlds and Cultures Narratives of the African Diaspora Creatives in Vienna, an evening of fashion, film, music, literature and art, told by the people who lived it. #POSITIVENARRATIVES | VIENNA, AUSTRIA Up "Positive narratives were told. The African diaspora in Vienna is a living, breathing creative force; people who arrive, and create." Diaspora Creatives is here to shift narratives. This time, the stories are not about survival, it is about the diaspora as vision, excellence, and creative power , told by the people who built it themselves. On 24 June, that mission took physical form inside Palais Wenkheim, hosted by Webster University Vienna. Fashion, photography, opera, literature and entrepreneurship owned by the African Diaspora, shared one room and one intention: to let the African diaspora in Vienna hold the pen on its own story. What happened in that room didn't stay there. It travelled through platforms, through conversations, through every guest who carried it home. THE FIRST STOPS DC's Vienna Tour Before the evening programme, the day opened with stops at different places in Vienna that roots DC's experience, storytelling and everyday spaces. An art exhibition. A community supermarket. An African restaurant. Three different rooms, but one shared thread: African diaspora life in Vienna is fully expressed, everyday. MOMENTS Made in Diaspora A testimony to the creative force that lives within this community, to the stories that have crosses oceans and taken root in this city and to the power of gathering with intention. Positive narratives were told: the African diaspora in Vienna is a living, breathing creative force, made of people who arrive and create. FEATURED VOICES Six disciplines, one narrative Some faces of the African diaspora creatives in Vienna who shaped the evening. Every silhouette carried a mindset, identity, respect, and the boldness of knowing who you are. A Proof that diaspora creativity doesn't have to choose one tradition to master them all...and that storytelling is a medium for positive narratives of Africa, on its own terms. 01 Photographer, Filmmaker and Cultural diplomat Terhas Berhe Terhas does not simply take photographs. She captures faces showing the resilience of African people with dignity and grace. Author 02 Benedicta Apuamah Her book "Biking through Africa & beyond" is a journey of empowerment, personal growth, and the courage to embrace authentic storytelling in a "non-colonial" way. Founder a lifestyle magazine 03 Harriet Kahului Hala FAB L'Style Magazine is an international platform dedicated to fashion, art, beauty and lifestyle. Opera and Crossover Vocalist 04 Ranti Opera and crossover singer, is versatile in various genres of music. Fashion Designer 05 Hannah Acquah Founder of Helmet & Armour, a faith-based brand treating fashion as architecture and supporting women in Ghana. Entrepreneur 06 Evelyn Adoun Founder of Eva Tours Startup, a travel agency that invites you to discover Benin and its culture and promoting community well-being. REFLECTIONS What the room carried CREATIVES, INCLUDING MODELS & ENTREPRENEURS FEATURED 15+ DISCIPLINES ON ONE STAGE 7 EVENING, INTIMATE & COMMUNITY-CENTRED 1 REACH, STILL TRAVELLING THROUGH CONVERSATIONS AND MEDIA PLATFORMS "This is what Diaspora Creatives was built for, to give #positivenarratives of creatives from diaspora, a stage, an audience and a community. Spreading positive narratives like a gong whose resonnant sound travel far and wide." AUDREY KODJO-HESSOUH, CO-FOUNDER OF DIASPORA CREATIVES WITH THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS Webster University Vienna Helmet & Armour TKC Africa Prosi Exotic World Supermarket 2B Drinks Blue Bomb Water Beautilda FAB L'Style Magazine Benedicta Apuamah JOIN THE STORY The narrative doesn't stop here. Follow Diaspora Creatives for the next gathering, the next feature, the next positive narrative of the African diaspora in Vienna and beyond. FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM JOIN THE COMMUNITY Stay tuned for the upcoming Afrimaxx Documentary about Diaspora Creatives and its community in Vienna. SUBSCRIBE

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AN INITIATIVE DESIGNED TO BRING TOGETHER CREATIVE MINDS FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS IN A SERIES OF UNIQUE AND INSPIRING ENCOUNTERS. CREATIVES' DATE! CREATIVES' DATE! IS AN INITIATIVE DESIGNED TO BRING TOGETHER CREATIVE MINDS FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS IN A SERIES OF UNIQUE AND INSPIRING ENCOUNTERS. WHETHER IT'S OVER LUNCH, DINNER, OR DURING AN ENGAGING TOUR, EACH CREATIVES' DATE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO FOSTER MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS, IGNITE COLLABORATIVE SPARKS, AND EXPLORE THE VAST TAPESTRY OF CREATIVITY WITHIN OUR DIASPORA COMMUNITY AND BEYOND. JUNE 08th, 2024 HIGHLIGHTS FROM EPISODE II Brunch & Bond! The first edition of Creatives Dates! held on March 16th, 2024 gathered around 20 participants for a fun evening, and created positive resonances even after the event with feedback collected from the participant. New relationships and business connections were formed. Different participants commanded the goal of the events' goal in building a strong sense of community. It is backed by these very important feedbacks that the second edition was created around the topic of the importance of community, which is essential for diaspora members, talents, etc.. for reasons such as support system, sense of belonging, shared of experience, advocacy and voice raising, resource sharing, empowerment, cultural exchange and many more. The second episode came back with the goal to make a stronger impact. Episode II of Creatives Date aimed for a welcoming atmosphere to connect with creatives and Diaspora members, engage in deep and inspiring talks, bonding and discovering talents. This meet-up hosted 30 guests around networking activities, a stage for self-promotion and a delightful Brunch with inspiring discussions! All guests were invited to share their views, exchange of experiences on the importance of community for growth and development, especially for creatives and diaspora members, through The Networking Games Cards, created by Diaspora Creatives and ADYFE. For business owners, project holders, creatives and diaspora members in general, this event served as a channel for self-promotion, awareness raising on initiatives and projects, creation of new connections that will grow beyond our event and a safe space to support growth and visions. All necessary to create a strong community and encourage self & professional development. The Activities 🌯 BRUNCH delicious food that will feed eyes and belly 🤭. *say no more* 🎭 OPEN-STAGE for talents who wish to, to share a part of their creative world in an intimate and engaging setting. 🎙️ INSPIRING DISCUSSIONS on the importance of community for growth and development. To make it fun, Diaspora Creatives created the “Networking Cards”. Follow the rules and let’s sprinkle community love! 🥳 FUN NETWORKING GAMES Let’s discover you through your portraits! Counting on you to play along. Find to which guests the listed secrets belong to. We will elect a "Networking Influencer" for the day! 🔖 OPPORTUNITY for self-promotion, promotion of projects, initiatives, business; and create connections with new people that will last beyond our event Free entry! Diaspora Creatives thanks all participants who made donations during the event! Your contributions enable us to continue organising these inspiring gatherings, fostering connections, and nurturing the vibrant tapestry of our community. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us: Provide more enriching events and activities, Offer resources and support to emerging creatives, Maintain and expand our community initiatives, Together, we can build a stronger, more connected network. You can check out other form of donation plans on our "DONOR WALL " DONOR WALL Spotlight on our partner HAPPY STREETFOOD For this edition, we are working with the restaurant Happy Streetfood to provide a variety of amazing and tasteful meals from the African continent. Happy Streetfood Restaurant is located in the 15th district at Schweglerstraße 57/Guntherstraße 9 , and proposes African specialties, including vegetarian and vegan. They are available for catering for your event, both private and public. Check out Happy Streetfood's page below and save their contact for future orders. HAPPY STREETFOOD DONATE/SUPPORT US Account Name : Diaspora Creatives - Verein zur För. IBAN AT23 2011 1850 2398 6900 BIC/SWIFT GIBAATWWXXX EMAIL hello@diasporacreatives.com PHONE +436606202426 FOLLOW

Mohamed MOHAMUD Country of Origin: Somalia Biggest achievement: Somali Sideways has achieved remarkable milestones, transcending geographic boundaries to promote transformative storytelling. Favorite quote : "The idea is not to live forever, but to create something that will - Andy Warhol" Best quality: My greatest strengths lie in my ability to connect with people on a deep and genuine level. Renowned for being an attentive and empathetic listener, I pride myself on understanding the nuances of individual stories. My Outstanding Story Somali Sideways, a ground-breaking visual storytelling project, has embarked on a transformative journey that extends across continents, bringing forth the rich tapestry of the Somali experience. This initiative has transcended traditional boundaries, capturing authentic stories through extensive global travels. The project's commitment to changing narratives is exemplified through the publication of evocative books, each page echoing the diverse voices of the Somali diaspora. Engaging in dynamic public speaking engagements, the project's representatives have become advocates for cultural understanding, challenging preconceptions about the Somali region. Photo exhibitions showcase the vivid imagery and compelling narratives, fostering dialogues that resonate beyond geographic borders. Furthermore, Somali Sideways has curated immersive book events that provide platforms for nuanced discussions and cultural exchange. The project's social media presence has surged, amassing a dedicated following of over 30,000 and counting. This digital outreach amplifies the impact, ensuring that the narratives reach a global audience. The core mission is not only to capture moments but to actively participate in changing the global lens through which the Somali region is viewed. Beyond the tangible outputs, Somali Sideways is a catalyst for profound change. It challenges misconceptions, dismantles stereotypes, and illuminates the multifaceted nature of Somali identity. The project is an embodiment of resilience and cultural pride, fostering connections that extend far beyond the photographic frame. Somali Sideways is rewriting the narrative, ensuring that the voices of the Somali community are not only heard but celebrated on a global stage. 1.Somali Sideways - My biggest achievement... 2.A visionary founder! 3.Cultural heritage...A powerful vehicle 4.Awards and Recognitions 5.Aspirations and goals as a Diaspora Member 1. Somali Sideways - My biggest achievement... Somali Sideways has achieved remarkable milestones, transcending geographic boundaries to promote transformative storytelling. From globe-trotting journeys that brought our narratives to diverse corners of the world to hosting impactful book events, the project's photobook now graces the shelves of the prestigious School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) library, acting as a catalyst for changing perceptions of Somalis. Our collaboration with influential institutions, including the African Union, has expanded our reach and influence. Notably, our network has grown to encompass Somalis from both the Diaspora and the African region, creating a powerful tapestry of voices that challenge stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and amplify the authentic stories of resilience within the Somali community. Somali Sideways stands as a testament to the potential of visual storytelling in fostering understanding and unity on a global scale. 2. A visionary founder... I am a visionary founder of Somali Sideways, a pioneering platform dedicated to the power of visual storytelling and changing the narrative surrounding the Somali region. In 2014/15, driven by a deep-seated passion for challenging misconceptions, I embarked on this remarkable journey. My mission was clear: to transform how the world perceives the Somali region and to amplify the voices that too often go unheard. Over the years, my dedication to this purpose has led me to travel to more than 30 countries, conducting book events, signings, and speaking engagements. My ground-breaking works, including "Somali Sideways: Photobook in Changing the Perceptions of the Somalis" and "Somali Sideways: Araweelo Edition (e-book)," have been instrumental in shedding light on the rich tapestry of Somali culture, history, and resilience. The "Somali Sideways: Women Stories" further exemplifies his commitment to amplifying the voices of Somali women, often underrepresented in mainstream narratives. Through my extraordinary vision, relentless dedication, and unwavering commitment to changing narratives and amplifying voices, I have become a leading force in the quest for a more inclusive, informed, and empathetic world. My work continues to inspire and illuminate, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions and creating pathways for deeper cultural appreciation and understanding. 3. ...my cultural heritage is a powerful vehicle for the preservation, celebration... Somali Sideways has wielded a significant influence on cultural heritage by serving as a powerful vehicle for the preservation, celebration, and amplification of Somali identity. The project's impact on cultural heritage is multifaceted: Preservation of Authentic Narratives: Somali Sideways has become a custodian of authentic narratives, capturing the stories, traditions, and everyday life experiences of the Somali community across the globe. By doing so, it contributes to preserving a diverse cultural heritage that might otherwise be overlooked or misunderstood. The project actively works to dispel stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding Somali culture. Through visually compelling storytelling, Somali Sideways showcases the richness and complexity of Somali heritage, challenging external narratives that may be based on partial or inaccurate information. The global reach of Somali Sideways allows it to celebrate the diversity within the Somali diaspora. By documenting the experiences of Somalis living in various continents, the project highlights the adaptability, resilience, and cultural fusion that contribute to the dynamic nature of Somali heritage. The extensive travels, photo exhibitions, and public speaking engagements associated with Somali Sideways facilitate a global cultural exchange. The project creates bridges of understanding between the Somali community and diverse audiences worldwide, fostering appreciation for Somali heritage on an international scale. Somali Sideways empowers the Somali community by providing a platform for self-representation. Through visual storytelling, individuals are given the agency to share their stories, shaping and contributing to the ongoing narrative of Somali cultural heritage. The project's engagement with institutions, including photo exhibitions and book events, contributes to educational initiatives. Somali Sideways serves as an educational resource, offering insights into Somali cultural heritage that can be integrated into academic curricula and cultural studies. In essence, Somali Sideways is a cultural heritage ambassador, actively contributing to the documentation, reclamation, and promotion of Somali cultural identity. Through its influence, the project fosters a deeper understanding of Somali heritage, not only within the Somali community but also among global audiences, ultimately enriching the global tapestry of cultural diversity. 4. ...Awards and recognitions My academic pursuits have further enriched my understanding of the complex issues surrounding the Somali region. I hold an MSc in Politics of Conflict Rights and Justice from SOAS, University of London, and his ground-breaking work is held in high regard, with his book "Somali Sideways Photobook" housed in the SOAS library and regularly used by students for academic research. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, I was selected as an African Union Media Fellow through the highly competitive African Union Media Fellowship program. Out of over 6,000 applicants, I was among the elite 20 chosen to promote and amplify Somali voices within the African continent, solidifying my reputation as a champion of meaningful storytelling and cultural understanding. Adding to these accolades, I am a grantee of the Society of Authors, a prestigious organization that supports authors across the UK. My collaboration with Chinese curators living in Shenzhen, China, through a British Council grant, underscores my commitment to fostering global connections and promoting cross-cultural exchange. 5. ...Empower Somali Community To empower the Somali community by providing a platform for self-representation, fostering pride in cultural heritage, and challenging negative stereotypes. To promote a deeper understanding of Somali culture on a global scale, fostering appreciation, respect, and dialogue between diverse communities. To continually enhance the quality of visual storytelling, ensuring that narratives are authentic, compelling, and reflective of the diverse experiences within the Somali diaspora. To contribute to educational initiatives, both within Somali communities and beyond, providing resources and insights into Somali culture, history, and traditions. To actively engage with the community, seeking feedback, and involving community members in the decision-making processes of the project. To play a role in the preservation of Somali cultural heritage, including language, traditions, and historical narratives. ...a message for emerging diaspora members: As you embark on your creative journey, let Somali Sideways be a source of inspiration. Remember, your unique voice has the power to reshape narratives, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate the richness of culture. Embrace the authenticity of your experiences, for it is within your stories that profound connections are made. Trust the process, stay true to your vision, and, most importantly, listen to the voices of the communities you represent. In the realm of creativity, each perspective is a brushstroke on the canvas of a more inclusive and understanding world. Your creativity is a force for change – wield it with purpose, passion, and the belief that your story matters. Somali Sideways