Are you ready to embark on a journey of creativity, connection, and exploration? Afrobloggers is thrilled to announce its June Blogging Challenge for 2024, where we invite African bloggers from across the continent to join us in a 20-day adventure of sharing stories, exchanging ideas, and celebrating our diverse voices.
Day 1: Parenting/Fatherhood/Motherhood Kickstarting our challenge with a reflection on the joys and challenges of parenthood from an African perspective.
Day 2: Friends and Relationships Exploring the dynamics of friendships and relationships within our communities.
Day 3: AI and Content Creation Delving into the realm of artificial intelligence and its impact on content creation in the blogging sphere.
Day 4: Money/Finance/Savings Discussing financial literacy, strategies for saving, and navigating economic challenges.
Day 5: Folk Stories Revisiting the tales passed down through generations and their significance in preserving our cultural heritage.
Day 6: Love in Africa Exploring African romance, traditions, and societal perceptions of love and marriage.
Day 7: Music in Africa Celebrating the richness and diversity of African music and its evolving landscape.
Day 8: Film in Africa Analyzing the evolution of African cinema and the impact of film on our society.
Day 9: Keeping Content Creation Relevant Strategies for staying current and engaging with evolving trends in content creation.
Day 10: Future of Your Blog/Vlog/Podcast Visioning the trajectory of your creative platform over the next decade.
Day 11: African Literature Exploring the power and beauty of African literature and storytelling.
Day 12: Blogging and Society Examining the role of blogging in shaping societal discourse and driving change.
Day 13: Content Creation in the Face of Globalization Navigating the complexities of globalization as a content creator and global citizen.
Day 14: Collaborations The benefits and challenges of collaborating with fellow creators in the blogging community.
Day 15: African Unity Reflecting on the concept of Pan-Africanism and our collective identity as Africans.
Day 16: African Fashion Industry Exploring the vibrant world of African fashion and its cultural significance.
Day 17: Life Stocktake Reflecting on pivotal moments that have shaped our lives and perspectives.
Day 18: Overcoming Obstacles Sharing stories of resilience and growth in the face of challenges.
Day 19: Behind the Scenes Taking readers behind the curtain of your blogging journey and the passion that fuels your creativity.
Day 20: What Afrobloggers Means to You Closing our challenge with a reflection on the significance of Afrobloggers in our blogging community.
Join us as we embark on this inspiring journey of self-expression, connection, and growth. Let your voice be heard, your stories be shared, and your creativity shine through. Together, let’s make June 2024 a month to remember in the African blogging sphere!
It takes time for one to find their blogging lane, it’s also important they do so even if our minds are not niched. There are many reasons and benefits for a creative, storyteller to know who they are. In 2024, Afrobloggers embark on an innovative journey to enhance the blogging landscape across Africa. Our approach involves grouping bloggers according to their niches, fostering strategic collaboration within smaller communities. The goal is to empower these distinct groups to devise solutions tailored to their specific blogging realms.
At Afrobloggers, we envision a future where every blogger, irrespective of their niche, thrives in an environment crafted to amplify their unique voice. This initiative aims to position individuals and their outlets strategically, opening avenues for grants both within and outside the continent.
Our mission is clear: to serve as a web-based hub that not only promotes but educates and celebrates African bloggers. We are committed to cultivating an enabling and creatively inspiring environment for grassroots digital storytellers to connect and create.
As an organization, we aspire to shape an African narrative that is inclusive of grassroots stories. By supporting bloggers in their niches, we contribute to the broader objective of promoting Africa’s emerging voices. Afrobloggers is not just an organization; it is a driving force behind the elevation of African digital storytellers, providing them with the tools and opportunities to make a lasting impact. Join us on this journey as we collectively shape a vibrant future for African bloggers.
here are blogging niches that we would wish to start off, each with its description and WhatsApp link that will connect you to your kind.
ACTIVISM
The content creators who bring attention to social issues through awareness, advocacy and/or lobbying join here
Collaboration/Guest Projects
Digital work that is published by a group of two or more join here
EXPRESSIVE
Content creators express their thoughts, feelings, and views on a variety if things often from personal experience join here
CREATIVE WRITING
Content creators who showcase their narrative craft, character development or analysis of original creative work through the use of literary tropes, various traditions of poetry, poetics or book reviews join here
BUSINESS
Content creators that inform, educate, criticize, and analyze developments in the business world join here
WELLNESS
Content creators that focus on heart, body soul or group development. Examples: health, fitness, spirituality, motivation, dating advice join here
GUIDE
Content creators that dwell on how to do certain things like parenting, gardening, sometimes based on their own personal experience join here
Are you passionate about promoting authentic African narratives? Afrobloggers, a dynamic online hub dedicated to celebrating and empowering African bloggers, is excited to announce volunteer opportunities to expand our team and impact.
Available Positions:
Regional Representatives: Be the voice of Afrobloggers in specific geographical areas, Northern Africa, Western Africa, Southern Africa, East Africa fostering connections and collaborations.
Chapter Coordinators: Lead and coordinate local chapters, organizing events and activities to strengthen our community. Chapter are country based.
Deputy Roles: Assist our dedicated team in roles such as Community Management(social media), Creative Direction, and Head Editing
Why Volunteer with Afrobloggers?
Contribute to the growth of African storytelling on a global platform.
Connect with a diverse and supportive community of bloggers from different African countries.
Showcase your skills and passion for digital storytelling.
Make a meaningful impact on the representation of African stories.
How to Apply: If you’re ready to be a part of this inspiring journey, please submit your resume and a brief statement of interest to ab@afrobloggers.org by 15 February 2024. In your statement, share why you’re drawn to Afrobloggers and how your skills align with the position you’re interested in.
Application Deadline: 15th February 2024, We believe in the power of storytelling, and with your help, we can continue to build a narrative that reflects the richness of African experiences. Join Afrobloggers in shaping the future of African storytelling!
Best Regards,
Afrobloggers
Objet : Rejoignez-nous pour amplifier les histoires africaines : opportunités de bénévolat pour les Afrobloggers ! Chers Afroblogueurs,
Êtes-vous passionné par la promotion de récits africains authentiques ? Afrobloggers, une plateforme en ligne dynamique dédiée à la célébration et à l’autonomisation des blogueurs africains, est ravie d’annoncer des opportunités de bénévolat pour élargir notre équipe et notre impact. Postes disponibles :
Représentants régionaux : soyez la voix des Afrobloggers dans des zones géographiques spécifiques, en Afrique du Nord, en Afrique de l’Ouest, en Afrique australe et en Afrique de l’Est, en favorisant les connexions et les collaborations.
Coordonnateurs de chapitre : diriger et coordonner les chapitres locaux, en organisant des événements et des activités pour renforcer notre communauté. Les chapitres sont basés sur les pays.
Rôles d’adjoint : aider notre équipe dédiée dans des rôles tels que la gestion de la communauté (médias sociaux), la direction créative et la rédaction en chef Pourquoi faire du bénévolat avec Afrobloggers ? Contribuer à la croissance de la narration africaine sur une plateforme mondiale.
Connectez-vous avec une communauté diversifiée et solidaire de blogueurs de différents pays africains.
Mettez en valeur vos compétences et votre passion pour la narration numérique.
Avoir un impact significatif sur la représentation des histoires africaines.
Comment postuler : Si vous êtes prêt à faire partie de ce voyage inspirant, veuillez soumettre votre curriculum vitae et une brève déclaration d’intérêt à ab@afrobloggers.org avant le 15 février 2024.
Dans votre déclaration, expliquez pourquoi vous êtes attiré par Afrobloggers et comment vos compétences correspondent au poste qui vous intéresse. Date limite de candidature : 15 février 2024. Nous croyons au pouvoir de la narration et, avec votre aide, nous pouvons continuer à construire un récit qui reflète la richesse des expériences africaines.
Rejoignez les Afrobloggers pour façonner l’avenir de la narration africaine ! Cordialement, Afroblogueurs
Reflecting on a year of shared creativity and growth, the Afrobloggers community has been a vibrant lens of voices, ideas, notions, arguments, beliefs, opinions, sentiments, thoughts, and aspirations. In June, we embarked on the Winter Blogging Challenge or the African Blogging Challenge (Winter ABC), uniting African content creators in a celebration of diverse perspectives. The Afrobloggers fellowship earlier in the year strengthened our bonds as individuals from across the continent were introduced to the basics of content creation online, setting the stage for a future filled with shared endeavors.
While challenges altered our course, they also illuminated new paths. The absence of awards this year will be a brief pause, making a grand return in 2024. As we step into 2024, let’s acknowledge the passion that drives each keystroke, podcast episode, and video created by our talented members of our community. Excitingly, the AB Published Bloggers project, led by a dedicated member, promises to unfold in 2024, marking a milestone in our journey.
The team driving this initiative will expand in the first quarter of 2023, welcoming more volunteers into our creative family these are expected to represent all the major geographical regions of Africa, and an emphasis on French-speaking Africa, post-colonial challenge will not be a roadblock to the goal of promoting Africa’s emerging voices.
By the end of February, a select few among us, who have exemplified exceptional dedication, selflessly supported the community, and tirelessly promoted fellow content creators, will be honored with the prestigious Afrobloggers Endorsement Badge. This badge stands as a symbol of recognition for those whose unwavering commitment has truly made a positive impact on our collective journey. Your efforts echo the spirit of Afrobloggers, where collaboration and support fuel the vibrant tapestry of our creative community.
The Afrobloggers fellowship has evolved into a cherished tradition, a torchbearer for future generations that is going to carry on. Our June Blogging Challenge (Winter ABC), eagerly anticipated, will continue to be a beacon of creative exploration.
Looking ahead, our vision extends beyond individual expression. In the coming year, let’s not only create for ourselves but also for the betterment of African society. Embrace both global and continental monthly themes, and we shall dare to say the unsaid as a community, and be brave for yourselves and your communities.
African challenges know no borders, and collaboration is our strength. We encourage you to forge new connections, to blend your creativity with others. As a united community, we will collaborate with organizations across the continent and the diaspora, ensuring that our stories shape the African narrative.
In 2023, let’s not only be content creators but storytellers with a purpose. Together, let’s amplify our voices, challenge norms, and own the narrative that defines us. The journey ahead is rich with possibilities, and we, as Afrobloggers, are poised to make it extraordinary. Here’s to a year of inspiration, collaboration, and impactful storytelling
UNE ANNÉE DE RÉFLEXION ET UNE VISION POUR LES AFROBLOGGERS EN 2024
En réfléchissant à une année de créativité et de croissance partagées, la communauté Afrobloggers a été un prisme dynamique de voix, d’idées, de notions, d’arguments, de croyances, d’opinions, de sentiments, de pensées et d’aspirations. En juin, nous nous sommes lancés dans le Winter Blogging Challenge ou African Blogging Challenge (Winter ABC), réunissant les créateurs de contenu africains dans une célébration de diverses perspectives. La bourse Afrobloggers plus tôt dans l’année a renforcé nos liens alors que des individus de tout le continent ont été initiés aux bases de la création de contenu en ligne, ouvrant la voie à un avenir rempli d’efforts communs.
Si les défis ont modifié notre cap, ils ont également ouvert de nouvelles voies. L’absence de récompenses cette année ne sera qu’une brève pause, faisant un grand retour en 2024. Alors que nous entrons dans 2024, reconnaissons la passion qui anime chaque frappe, épisode de podcast et vidéo créé par les membres talentueux de notre communauté. Il est intéressant de noter que le projet AB Publié Bloggers, dirigé par un membre dévoué, promet de se déployer en 2024, marquant une étape importante dans notre voyage.
L’équipe qui pilote cette initiative s’élargira au premier trimestre 2023, accueillant davantage de bénévoles dans notre famille créative. Ils devraient représenter toutes les grandes régions géographiques de l’Afrique, et l’accent mis sur l’Afrique francophone, le défi postcolonial ne sera pas un obstacle à l’objectif de promouvoir les voix émergentes de l’Afrique.
D’ici la fin février, quelques-uns d’entre nous, qui ont fait preuve d’un dévouement exceptionnel, ont soutenu la communauté de manière désintéressée et ont inlassablement promu d’autres créateurs de contenu, recevront le prestigieux badge d’approbation des Afrobloggers. Ce badge est un symbole de reconnaissance pour ceux dont l’engagement indéfectible a véritablement eu un impact positif sur notre parcours collectif. Vos efforts font écho à l’esprit des Afrobloggers, où la collaboration et le soutien alimentent la tapisserie dynamique de notre communauté créative.
La communauté Afrobloggers est devenue une tradition précieuse, un porte-flambeau pour les générations futures qui va se perpétuer. Notre Blogging Challenge de juin (Winter ABC), très attendu, continuera d’être un phare d’exploration créative.
Pour l’avenir, notre vision s’étend au-delà de l’expression individuelle. Au cours de l’année à venir, créons non seulement pour nous-mêmes, mais aussi pour le bien de la société africaine. Adoptez des thèmes mensuels à la fois mondiaux et continentaux, et nous oserons dire le non-dit en tant que communauté, et serons courageux pour vous-mêmes et vos communautés.
Les défis africains ne connaissent pas de frontières et la collaboration est notre force. Nous vous encourageons à forger de nouvelles connexions, à mélanger votre créativité avec celle des autres. En tant que communauté unie, nous collaborerons avec
organisations à travers le continent et la diaspora, garantissant que nos histoires façonnent l’Afrique
narratif.
En 2023, soyons non seulement des créateurs de contenu, mais aussi des conteurs ayant un but. Ensemble, amplifions notre
voix, remettent en question les normes et s’approprient le récit qui nous définit. Le voyage à venir est riche de
possibilités, et nous, en tant qu’Afrobloggers, sommes prêts à le rendre extraordinaire. Voilà pour un an de
inspiration, collaboration et narration percutante
Occasionally, bloggers and other content creators compose letters to their past selves, not necessarily in terms of age, but reflecting on the insights they wish they had when beginning their creative journeys. Often, our initial foray into blogging is born out of a phase, a trial-and-error process, or a moment of enthusiasm. The outcomes of these beginnings vary widely: for some, it evolves into a thriving online journal or platform; for others, it paves the way for diverse creative opportunities. Additionally, there are those who, through their creative ventures, embark on a journey of self-discovery. Concurrently, some individuals find that the initial excitement wanes after a few posts, revealing the realization that creating content might not align with their aspirations.
In essence, the act of starting a blog becomes a portal to diverse outcomes. These range from successful digital journals to newfound paths of self-exploration. Simultaneously, it unveils the spectrum of creative inclination, revealing both the potential for expansion and the recognition of a different calling. This journey might culminate after a few initial posts, hinting at the intricacies of personal compatibility with the creative process. In summary, the act of creation is an odyssey that unravels in myriad directions, encompassing self-realization, evolving aspirations, and the acknowledgment of one’s creative affinity.
There are a few things we at Afrobloggers would very much wish for you to know, essential aspects for new bloggers, vloggers and podcasters to contemplate.
Posting regularly is key. It helps your audience know when to expect new content and builds their trust. Set a realistic schedule that you can maintain over the long term. So never take the song of Consistency lightly when an established blogger sings it to you, it’s a real tale.
Authenticity is vital. Write in your own voice and share your unique perspective. Readers are drawn to bloggers who are genuine and relatable. Always remember to be Yourself in every sense of it otherwise you may be a one hit wonder.
Finding your writing style takes time. Experiment with different tones, styles, and topics until you discover what resonates with both you and your audience. Your voice will evolve over time. Don’t rush to have an identity, take all the time to find your voice, it’s why famous creators stand out, it’s why Michael Angelo, Wagner, and Dickens stood out.
Becoming an authority takes time and consistent effort. Focus on creating high-quality, well-researched content that provides value to your readers, listeners and those that will spare time to watch your videos. Networking with others in your niche and guest posting can also help boost your credibility.
The time it takes varies widely based on factors like niche, competition, and your dedication. It might take several months to a few years and most likely years to truly establish yourself as an authority. We grew up listening to Joe Logan, now he is a household name with his podcast. Patience and persistence are key.
Content creation is a journey a melody you should never forget. Stay committed to improving your skills, engaging with your audience, and adapting to changes in your niche. It’s about growth and learning as much as it is about reaching a destination. We live in a fast-paced world and keeping relevant is all we need but at what cost and on which path do we archive it?
Collaboration among bloggers can bring about several honors that contribute to their development, frontage, and overall success in the content creation realm.
For starters, there is Knowledge Exchange. Collaborating with other bloggers across the African continent permits for the sharing of wisdom, expertise, and various viewpoints. Bloggers can learn from each other’s experiences and gain fresh knowledge on various topics.
There is Increased Visibility, when bloggers cooperate, they often cross-promote each other’s work. This exposure can put forward their content to new audiences, leading to increased visibility and traffic to their blogs.
Blog Collaborations a fronts for Networking Opportunities, Collaborative undertakings and projects provide opportunities to relate with like-minded individuals within the blogging community. Networking can lead to friendships, partnerships, and future collaborations.
There is a whole new world of Diverse Content. Collaboration can result in a myriad and well-rounded content. Bloggers can combine their extraordinary styles, views, and expertise to produce content that is more in-depth and appealing to a broader audiences.
It’s a must working with others comes with AudienceGrowth. Join projects with bloggers in a similar niche or with complementary topics can help both parties tap into each other’s audiences, potentially gaining new followers and readers. Imagine taping into the West African viewership that has some of the most populous economies for content creators from the East and South of the continent.
When content creators work with others there is Shared Resources at the end of the day. Bloggers can pool their resources, such as graphics, tools, and expertise, to create higher-quality content that might have been challenging to produce individually. We are all gifted differently and there is always something new coming up in the content creation tools.
When as a content creator you have a dry season collaborate to experience a Creativity Boost. Working with others can spark untouched ideas and imaginative paths. Brainstorming and collaborating can lead to renewed perspectives and innovative content.
The gift established content creators can pass on is Social Proof through collaborative works. Partnering with other respected bloggers can lend credibility to a blogger’s work. When admirable bloggers collaborate, it gives a sign to their audiences that their content is worth paying attention to.
Working with others will always bring about real Skill Enhancement. Collaboration can provide an opportunity for bloggers to develop new skills, such as teamwork, communication, negotiation, and project management.
Do you have a someone to watch over you in this creative world, Motivation and Accountability are weaved deep in reaching out to work with others. Collaborative projects can motivate bloggers to stay consistent and accountable in a fast paced world. Deadlines and shared goals can keep everyone fast-paced and productive, but sometimes we need pressure.
Access to New Platforms when you work with all kinds of people. Collaborating may introduce bloggers to new platforms, websites, or social media channels where they can showcase their work and reach new audiences.
Most times joint projects are aimed at Synergy. The combination of talents, skills, and audiences from multiple bloggers can create a synergistic effect, where the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts.
In essence, collaboration empowers bloggers to sway each other’s strengths, broaden their reach, and create content that is more engaging and impactful. So get out and work on a joint project before 2023 ends, you will not be disappointed.
Harare Voices & Beyond is one of the books I took a liking to this year. Having been in a reading slump for a while, the plot was quite intriguing.
We see the world through different points of view, taking a glimpse into the drug syndicate in Zimbabwe. We see the hierarchy of the drug world and how it affects the consumer whose life is the centre of the book. It reminded me of the docu-series, Gold Mafia, but with drugs.
The book starts with Rhys and Doris, a white Zimbabwean mother and son who are on trial for the murder of Julian, the protagonist. Rhys, the older son seems to try and hold the family together after the death of his father, Jim, and their farm being seized as a result of the land reform act in 2000’s Zimbabwe. He tries to soothe and encourage his mother Doris, but she is haunted by the death of her younger son, Julian who is the protagonist of the book. Julian (dead), urges the reader to see life through his eyes and how an overdose led to the loss of his life. We learn more about him through his therapy sessions, which prove he has deeper mental issues; interactions with others and his thoughts. We see him lose his father, marriage, sanity and even dignity as drugs strip him of his humanity and leave him a shell of his former self.
We get to learn more about the murder confession through Rhys telling Marina, a girl he is drawn to in Chikurubi Maximum Prison. We learn that Rhys is concealing a much bigger secret that gives the ending an unexpected plot twist which left me shocked! I will not spoil it for anyone but the ending caught me by surprise.
Harare Voices & Beyond strongly touches on topics such as:
Racism – how the white Zimbabweans have suffered at the hands of the government and how they face racism being the minority e.g. being called slurs.
Filial bonds – Rhys and Julian did not have a strong/nurturing bond with their mother (they both call her by her name). There is also Sophie and Marina, their relationship was strained due to Sophie not having a maternal bone and giving up her child.
Corruption – We see how the corruption in Zimbabwe drives a lot of people especially the youth into getting into gangs, using drugs etc, it seems like it is planned by those high-ups to destroy the youth and have them rely on their malfeasance.
Sexual abuse & assault – We see how sexual abuse affects both male and female victims. From Marina having been subjected to abuse and it causing her to close off and have complicated relationships, to Archie being subjected to sexual abuse but not knowing how to express it due to not having the proper tools and poverty.
Abandonment Issues: Marina is abandoned by her mother and it results in her being rebellious at school and being lost in life.
The Land Reform Act: White farmers being removed from farms in Zimbabwe and how it affected both the black and the white people. It caused death, and strife to the white community and the black people who worked on the farms lost their jobs and could not provide for their families.
Therapy: We see how therapy helped Julian open up and be diagnosed with a mental illness which would have been ignored if Helen did not take the time to accommodate him. It also showed that most men need therapy and acting out might not be because they are a hopeless case but it is a cry for help.
About the Author:
Hailing from Zimbabwe, Andrew Chatora writes novels and short stories. He received an MA in Media, Cultural and Communication from UCL. His writing explores multifarious themes of belonging, identity politics, citizenship and nationhood issues. ‘Where The Heart Is’ is his second novel following his highly successful debut novella: ‘Diaspora Dreams‘. Andrew is principally interested in the global politics of inequality which he interrogates through his writing. When he’s not writing , he is working on his PhD thesis on digital piracy with Birmingham City University’s School of Media and English.
This article was written by Rudo Manyere, you can find her full review of Send Her Back and Other Stories on her Youtube Channel and her previous reviews on our blog here
WinterABC is a month-long storytelling festival commencing from the 1st of June each year. This is the 5th year running and we are inviting all African Digital Storytellers to create content for the 22 weekdays of June. The weekends are reserved for resting, planning out content and networking. Read more about WinterABC here.
WinterABC2023 Storytelling Festival
Each year is always a little different…
For WinterABC2023 we were inspired by the imagery of gathering around a fire and used that as the basis for the weekly themes that will guide you in your content creation. It is up to you to interepret the themes in a way that resonates with you, your style or blogging niche and just push the boundaries of your creativity.
Gather around and feel the warmth of the fire, get to know about us and our world just a little better
THEME
EXPLANATION
WEEK 1: The Spark 1- 2 June 2023
Every fire begins with a spark, introduce us to that spark that makes you, you and what we can expect of you from this storytelling festival.
Week 2: The Flame 5-9 June 2023
After the spark comes the flame, welcome us to beauty in our stories, childhood, memories, lived experiences and showcase the creativity of the place you call home
Week 3: The Warmth 12-16 June 2023
Gathering around the now burning fire, the warmth is what draws people closer, culture, uBuntu, society, community, travel. Showcase the beauty and diversity in our continent
Week 4: The Light 19-23 June 2023
Fire also gives us light… Light up our world to the things we should see, the lessons we should learn, the values we should uphold, the opportunities to pursue, the technology that will save us or drown us, our environment and the future to come.
Week 5: Rekindling 26-30 June 2023
After awhile the fire dies down and needs to be rekindled. Inspire us, surprise us, move us, show us who you are. This Is Africa!
Partnered Topics
Through various partnerships and collaboratorations, we may have stakeholders who wish to have some conversations started and we will list them below:
Bhala Writers: Write a story inspired by an African food or flavor that includes the phrase “l could almost taste it…“
Feeling a bit stuck? We collected some suggestions of topics from the Community and maybe you might find something that sparks your interest.
Final Note: We are open to all multimedia content creators being a part of this and not just bloggers and writers but podcasters, vloggers and even photographers welcome.
