Global streaming platform, YouTube, has unveiled “The Voices of Africa”, a social campaign to celebrate the continent’s unique and traditional expressions.
The campaign, which is in partnership with a select group of African creators, seeks to celebrate the diversity of the continent’s cultural heritage at a time when the festivities are approaching which will see many Africans visit their hometowns away from cities in which they are based.
According to a presser by the streaming platform, creators from across Sub-Saharan Africa were challenged to create and share videos on their YouTube Channels that reveal their unique cultural heritage stories.
“They have captured their interpretation of cultural heritage through stories about their local traditions and practices, conversations with friends and family, and with people in their local communities,” YoTube said.
“Their stories have been shared on their channels as well as the YouTube Google Africa Channel.”
On her part, YouTube strategic partner manager Twala Ngambi said the campaign is an opportunity that allows YouTube to spotlight the uniqueness of Africa’s cultural heritage through the different voices and experiences of creators across the continent.
She said they have encouraged the creators to be as creative as possible, giving them the freedom to craft their heritage stories in a way that will best relate to their audiences as well as showcase their authenticity.
“Whether it’s taking us into their family homes, the primary school they attended, or sharing a personal family recipe with us, we believe that each story will educate, entertain and inspire audiences,” she continued.
“At YouTube, we have always prioritised and recognised the diverse cultures, creators, artists and content on the platform.”
Some of the creators who are part of the campaign include Kenya’s Susan Wahome who has shared a video on the secrets behind great African food.
South African creator, Seithati Letsipa, shared a video that unpacks the cultural practice of Pabadimo, a thanksgiving ceremony in her culture while Nigerian creator ‘Stylebereme’ took her followers on a journey, unpacking her love for African Wax prints.
Additionally, Wongel Zelalem provided an in-depth look at her Ethiopian heritage, while Nigerian storyteller Steven Ndukwu travelled to Kano to take an immersive look at Dambe, a martial art of the Hausa people from West Africa.
Kenyan content creator, Kate Kendy, took viewers on a journey through her history, heritage as well as the countryside.
Other South African creators, like Banele Ndaba, took audiences on a journey through his upbringing-where he grew up, attended school as well as conversations with his family while Reggie Mohlabi also released a video where he shares an in-depth look at his background with audiences.
The campaign is aimed at showing the continent’s unique stories and voices to the rest of the world.
