Change Africa Podcast

Nexa Media
  • 5.0 (7)
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Join hosts Isaac Aboah and Daniel Merki as they engage with Africa's most inspiring thought leaders and doers who are driving the continent's transformation. In each episode, we delve into the work and ideas of these changemakers, exploring Africa's challenges and the abundant opportunities for growth and development. In our Winter 2023 season, we delve deep into the stories of mavericks and outliers who are forging the path for Africa's future across various fields, including Media, Entertainment, Non-Profits, Tech, Creative Arts, and Entrepreneurship. Join us on the Change Africa Podcast as we shape a new African narrative that inspires innovation and prosperity.  Connect with us on social media: Change Africa Podcast on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Peace Hyde: Redefining African Storytelling Through Purpose and Power

    MAY 30

    Peace Hyde: Redefining African Storytelling Through Purpose and Power

    In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, host Isaac Aboah sits down with Peace Hyde, award-winning creator, executive producer, and one of the leading voices in African media, for a powerful conversation on creative risk, storytelling, and the future of African cinema. Peace traces her inspiring journey from being a high school science teacher in the UK to launching Young, Famous & African, the first-ever African reality show on Netflix. Through this journey, she unpacks how storytelling has become her tool for reshaping the world’s view of Africa, championing authenticity, and building platforms that elevate African talent. The episode delves into the behind-the-scenes aspects of Africa’s creative economy, from the production challenges of large-scale shows to the lack of funding, infrastructure, and distribution that hinder African filmmakers. Peace also reflects the mindset required to navigate failure and fame, emphasizing purpose, faith, and resilience as essential ingredients for sustainable success. Whether you’re a young creative, a media founder, or a believer in Africa’s global potential, this episode offers invaluable insight into how to build something bigger than yourself and redefine the narrative of a continent. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:56 – Peace Hyde: A Journey Through Media and Storytelling 08:52 – The Concept of Risk and Purpose in Career 15:00 – Authenticity in Storytelling and Production 20:57 – Challenges in African Film Production 30:06 – Bridging Gaps in African Film Talent 32:23 – Investing in African Talent and Infrastructure 34:13 – The Importance of Distribution in African Cinema 35:39 – Global Viewership and African Narratives 39:03 – Redefining Africa's Image Through Storytelling 43:14 – Navigating Success and Failure in Media 46:30 – Faith and Decision-Making in Creative Ventures 50:34 – Mindset and Resilience for the Next Generation 56:22 – Vision for the Future of African Cinema Further Reading and Resources Watch Young, Famous & African on NetflixLearn more about Peace Hyde's work via peacehyde.comFollow Peace on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter): @PeaceHyde This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 2m
  2. Paakow Essandoh: Bridging Cultures Through Fashion and the Power of Representation

    MAY 22

    Paakow Essandoh: Bridging Cultures Through Fashion and the Power of Representation

    In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, host Isaac Aboah sits down with Paakow Essandoh, founder of the celebrated fashion brand Mizizi, to explore the power of fashion as a tool for cultural identity, diaspora connection, and creative entrepreneurship. Paakow shares how Mizizi was born out of his quest to reconnect with African heritage after feeling culturally disconnected growing up in the diaspora. What started as a passion project quickly became a global brand celebrating African pride through bold designs, cultural storytelling, and authentic community engagement. The conversation explores the challenges of building a culturally sensitive brand, the role of collaboration and music in expanding reach, and how Mizizi navigated its rise from social media buzz to partnerships with major cultural institutions like Marvel. Paakow emphasizes the value of persistence, adaptability, and surrounding yourself with the right people to grow sustainably. From personal identity to global impact, this episode highlights how fashion can help reclaim narratives, build movements, and reshape how Africa is seen, both by the world and by its diaspora. Episode Summary00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:01 – Paakow Essandoh: Bridging Cultures Through Fashion 05:03 – The Journey of Entrepreneurship 08:59 – Grappling with Identity and Blackness 12:03 – Promoting African Culture Through Fashion 13:02 – The Launch of Mizizi and Initial Success 16:02 – Evolving the Brand and Cultural Sensitivity 19:09 – Media Attention and the Rise of Mizizi 20:54 – Sustaining Success in African Fashion 23:06 – Collaborations and Future Directions 23:50 – Building Connections Through Music and Fashion 26:29 – The Impact of African Culture on the Diaspora 29:02 – Collaborating with Marvel: A Journey of Persistence 38:08 – The Role of People in Business Success 41:27 – The Talent and Potential of African Creatives 45:48 – The Future of African Creativity and Global Representation Further Reading and ResourcesExplore Mizizi at mizizishop.comDiscover how Mizizi partnered with Marvel and other global brandsLearn more about diaspora fashion and storytelling via The Folklore and OkayAfrica This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min
  3. Amma Gyampoh: Transforming Africa Through Impact, Innovation, and Local Power

    MAY 15

    Amma Gyampoh: Transforming Africa Through Impact, Innovation, and Local Power

    In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, host Isaac Aboah sits down with Amma Gyampoh, founder and CEO of Scale Up Africa, for a compelling conversation on digital transformation, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and rethinking finance across the continent. Amma shares how her work in e-government and digital systems in the UK shaped her approach to African development. She reflects on her decision to return to Ghana and the transformative potential of solving problems “amidst the obvious,” especially in agriculture, where she believes distribution is everything. The discussion dives into African startups' structural challenges, from infrastructure and funding gaps to misaligned investor expectations. Amma champions a shift in mindset and capital, calling for decolonized financing, better collaboration among investors, and deeper engagement from local pension funds and family offices in shaping Africa’s future. This episode also explores gender lens investing, the untapped power of tourism and the creative economy, and why local decision-making is critical to sustainable entrepreneurship. Amma makes a powerful case for aligning capital with context and systems with sovereignty. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:01 – Amma Gyamoh: Founder of Scale Up Africa 02:46 – Digital Transformation Experience in the UK 05:26 – Transitioning to Ghana: Motivations and Challenges 08:23 – Addressing Agricultural Challenges in Africa 12:25 – The Importance of Distribution in Agriculture 15:32 – Building Startups: Differences Between Africa and the UK 18:14 – Investor Perspectives on Infrastructure and Funding 21:12 – Impact Investing Ghana: Collaborative Efforts 25:30 – Unlocking Local Pension Funds for Impact Investments 30:01 – Engaging Wealthy Families in African Tech Opportunities 31:04 – Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential 34:29 – Challenges in the Startup Ecosystem 39:31 – Integrating Solutions Across Sectors 41:12 – Shifting Power Dynamics in Funding 45:54 – Transforming Tourism and Creative Industries 51:26 – Decolonizing Finance and Impact Investing 56:40 – Building a Sustainable Future for Africa Further Reading and ResourcesLearn more about Amma Gyampoh’s work through Scale Up Africa.Explore Impact Investing Ghana, a platform promoting collaboration in inclusive finance.Check out AVCA and the Ghana Venture Capital Trust Fund for additional context on investing in African startups.Read more on gender lens and decolonial investing at Criterion Institute. This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 3m
  4. Claudine Moore: Connecting Africa Through PR, Culture, and the Diaspora

    APR 24

    Claudine Moore: Connecting Africa Through PR, Culture, and the Diaspora

    In this episode of the Change Africa Podcast, host Isaac Aboah is joined by guest Claudine Moore, a trailblazer in global PR and communications, to explore how branding, cultural intelligence, and the diaspora can shape Africa’s future. Claudine shares her personal and professional journey, from growing up in the UK with strong Pan-African values to founding C. Moore Media and eventually leading it to acquisition by global firm Allison. Her work has centered on amplifying authentic African narratives and building bridges between the continent and its global communities. The conversation delves into how tourism and sports can drive economic growth, foster cultural pride, and reshape Africa’s global image. Claudine emphasizes the role of storytelling and branding in addressing skewed Western perceptions of Africa, highlighting that many of the continent’s challenges are rooted in how it is framed to the world. This episode also touches on the significance of the Africa Business Cultural Intelligence Report, an inaugural topline report for global and pan-African businesses and organizations with the business cultural intelligence and local market knowledge required to thrive in Africa’s dynamic and rapidly growing markets.  We explore the promise of intra-African trade and the importance of corporate social responsibility. Claudine highlights the untapped potential of the African diaspora, the need for investment in Africa's youth, and why Africa must prioritize people over profit in its development strategies. From the DRC’s mineral wealth to the rise of African talent in global sports, this conversation paints a powerful picture of how culture, business, and identity intersect in the continent’s growth story. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:02 – Claudine Moore: A Journey of Connection to Africa 03:08 – The Impact of the African Diaspora 08:40 – Starting Seymour Media: A New Chapter 13:23 – Navigating Acquisitions in PR 22:26 – Allison: Expanding Horizons 25:29 – Africa Business Cultural Intelligence Report 30:07 – Tourism and Sports: A Cultural Connection 33:18 – The Impact of Sports on African Culture and Economy 37:43 – Education and Technology: Preparing Africa's Youth for the Future 41:28 – Opportunities and Responsibilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo 49:01 – US-Africa Relations: The Role of the Diaspora 55:08 – Intra-African Trade: Bridging Gaps and Building Connections Further Reading and ResourcesLearn more about Claudine Moore’s work and initiatives at C. Moore Media and Allison.Read the Africa Business Cultural Intelligence Report here.  This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 5m

  5. APR 10

    Sisters Leading Change in Real Estate Investing in Africa

    In this episode of the Change Africa podcast, host Isaac Aboah sits down with sisters Anna and Victoria Agyekum, co-coordinators of On Point Property Management, to explore the growing world of real estate in Ghana and the critical role of the diaspora in shaping the sector’s future. The conversation opens with the sisters sharing their unexpected journey into real estate, grounded in their cultural roots and entrepreneurial upbringing. Together, they unpack the unique challenges diaspora investors face, from trust gaps to limited access to information, and highlight why Ghana presents a powerful investment opportunity with its political stability and emerging economy. Anna and Victoria speak candidly about high interest rates, mortgage access, and infrastructure issues and propose public-private partnerships as a vital part of the solution. They emphasize that affordability must be understood from the perspective of multiple market demographics and call attention to the need for better planning to position Ghana as a potential world-class city. Throughout the episode, the sisters stress the role of technology, sustainability, and community development in the future of real estate. They also reflect on the impact of real estate expos in educating buyers and empowering local and diaspora communities. This episode captures the intersection of culture, entrepreneurship, and future-focused urban development, showing how real estate can become a tool for transformation across Africa. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:56 – Sisters in Business: The Jakum Story 06:03 – Cultural Roots and Influences 09:52 – Identifying the Real Estate Problem 14:04 – Benefits of Investing in Ghana 18:14 – Comparative Real Estate Markets 21:53 – Challenges in the Ghanaian Real Estate Market 25:58 – The Future of Real Estate Investment in Ghana 26:57 – Navigating Interest Rates and Mortgage Accessibility 28:28 – Infrastructure Development and Real Estate Opportunities 31:07 – Understanding Affordability in the Real Estate Market 33:42 – The Role of Expos in Real Estate Education 37:28 – Sustainability and Community Investment in Real Estate 44:15 – Envisioning the Future of Urbanization in Africa 47:04 – The Impact of Technology on Real Estate Development Further Reading and Resources To learn more about Anna and Victoria's company, visit their website. Learn more about the Ghana Property & Lifestyle Expo 2025 here. This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    52 min
  6. Ndubuisi Kejeh: The Power of Storytelling in Building Global Brands

    APR 7

    Ndubuisi Kejeh: The Power of Storytelling in Building Global Brands

    In this episode of the Change Africa podcast, host Isaac Aboah is joined by guest Ndubuisi Kejeh to explore the powerful role of storytelling in building global brands and driving transformation across the African continent. The conversation begins with exploring how narratives shape consumer behavior and brand identity. Ndubuisi highlights storytelling as a fundamental tool in marketing, company building, politics, and culture. Together, they examine the emotional core of consumerism, the success of global campaigns like Coca-Cola and Red Bull, and how African brands can learn from these models while maintaining authenticity. The dialogue touches on the economic opportunities tied to Afrobeats and African products, emphasizing that narrative-led strategies can help African entrepreneurs access global markets and change consumer perceptions. The discussion also critiques the venture capital model in Africa, arguing that it may not be fully suited to the continent’s economic realities and calling for context-specific funding strategies. Beyond business, the episode explores storytelling’s influence in politics, proposing that narrative can unify new political movements. The idea of a “third force” in African politics is discussed as a possibility powered by effective communication, leadership, and narrative cohesion. Ndubuisi and Isaac reflect on the moral dimension of marketing and influencer culture, advocating for a human-centered approach to influence and leadership. The episode ultimately affirms that storytelling is a catalytic force for reshaping Africa’s image, inspiring entrepreneurship, and igniting collective belief in possibility. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:01 – The Importance of Storytelling in Business 02:12 – The Power of Narratives in Company Building 05:52 – Successful Storytelling Campaigns 12:01 – Mastering Consumer Goods and Brand Building 18:48 – The Future of Consumerism and Morality 22:31 – Critique of the Venture Capital Model in Africa 29:56 – Economic Opportunities in Afrobeats and African Products 32:33 – The Power of Storytelling in Politics 39:39 – Creating a Third Force in African Politics 43:32 – Building Global Brands from Africa 50:08 – Perceptions and Branding Challenges in Africa Further Reading and ResourcesTo learn more about Ndubisi’s venture builder, Mustard, and its story-led approach, visit their website.  This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
  7. Selasi Gomado: Bridging Artists and Markets

    MAR 27

    Selasi Gomado: Bridging Artists and Markets

    This episode of the Change Africa podcast features Selasie Gomado, founder and creative director of Artematis, a Ghanaian art collective and agency driving the continent’s artistic renaissance. Selasei begins by tracing his early love for drawing, stifled by familial expectations to pursue engineering, a path he followed until a post-university epiphany sparked Artematis. What started as an online art shop in 2018, born from a random thought in a car ride, has grown into a dynamic collective showcasing five artists globally, from London to Hong Kong. Selasie recounts the rocky early days—six months of no sales—until a friend’s advice to tap into Ghanaians’ love for experiences led to the first Full Moon Exhibition. With 300 attendees and a single sale, it was a modest validation that shifted Artematis toward events. The momentum of 2019 screeched to a halt with COVID-19, nearly ending the venture. But a personal brush with the virus in 2021 became a turning point. Bedridden and reflective, Selasie recommitted to managing artists full-time, quitting his engineering job after signing with Phillips Auction House for a landmark 2022 London show. The discussion pivots to the artists of Artematis—Hawa Awanle Ayiboro, Abdur Rahman Muhammad, Kwaku Yaro, James Mishio, and Courage Hunke—each pushing boundaries with unique materials and themes. From Hawa’s vivid depictions of women’s struggles to Courage’s fusion of paper and plastic waste, Selasi highlights their growth from emerging to established talents. He reflects on the challenge of balancing structure with creative chaos, a dance he navigates with patience and an open mind. Selasie situates Artematis within Ghana’s thriving art scene, crediting pioneers like KNUST’s arts department and galleries such as 1957 for creating “third spaces” that democratize art. Yet, he notes a persistent hurdle: local art collecting lags, with over 90% of sales to foreigners. The episode closes with a hopeful vision for African art’s future—rooted in quality, documentation, and experimentation—underscoring Selasi’s belief that its foundations are still being built. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:01 Selasi Gomadu and Artomatis: A Journey into Art 03:01 The Evolution of Artomatis and Its Impact 06:01 Challenges and Triumphs in the Art Scene 09:04 Navigating the Art Market: Strategies and Insights 12:00 The Role of Community in Artist Development 15:03 Defining Great Art and the Artist's Journey 17:59 Fostering Creativity and Managing Artists 21:07 Success Stories and Growth in the Art Collective 23:47 Behind the Scenes of Art Exhibitions 26:56 Experimental Approaches in Contemporary Art 30:00 The Future of Artomatis and the Ghanaian Art Scene 35:50 Building Connections in the Art World 39:38 Challenges in the Art Industry 44:58 The Role of Galleries in Community Engagement 47:03 The Evolving Culture of Art Collection in Ghana 50:49 Supporting Artists' Mental Health 53:39 Spotlight on Emerging Artists 01:06:30 The Future of Art in Africa Further Reading and ResourcesTo explore Selasi’s world further: Visit Artematis’ website (assumed URL) for artist profiles and upcoming shows.Read Rebecca Ann Proctor’s 2021 article that spotlighted Artematis, Explore Ghana’s art scene through Gallery 1957 and Nubuke Foundation, key players mentioned by Selasi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 9m
  8. Maudo Jallow: Rewiring Africa’s Strategic Playbook in Global Geopolitics.

    MAR 20

    Maudo Jallow: Rewiring Africa’s Strategic Playbook in Global Geopolitics.

    In Episode 3 of Season 6, Change Africa Podcast hosts Isaac Aboah and Daniel Merki sit down with Maudo Jallow, a geopolitical strategist advising governments in the Middle East and Africa on strategy, public policy, and geopolitics. Jallow unpacks the intricate dance of global power, from GCC(Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)  influence in Africa to the continent’s untapped leverage in a multipolar world. The conversation tackles how African leaders can navigate partnerships with emerging players like the UAE, sidestep colonial hangovers, and build a pragmatic future rooted in competence and self-interest.    They explore the dynamics of international partnerships, the role of independent organizations, and the challenges African leaders face in negotiating beneficial agreements. The conversation also touches on the historical influence of colonial powers and the current efforts of the US to regain influence in Africa amidst rising competition from China and the UAE. This conversation explores the shifting dynamics of global influence, particularly focusing on the roles of the UK and US in Africa, the fragility of international law, sustainable development challenges, and the importance of attracting talent for governance.  Maudo urges African leaders to wield data-driven leverage in negotiations, tap diaspora talent, and prioritize GDP per capita as a development yardstick—offering a playbook for a continent ready to rewrite its story. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Change Africa Podcast 01:01 Geopolitical Landscape in the GCC Region 06:44 Africa as a Geopolitical Playground 11:26 The Role of Independent Organizations 19:09 Navigating Colonial Legacies in Africa 30:20 US Influence and Relationships in Africa 30:48 The Shifting Global Influence of the UK and US 35:49 The Role of International Law and the UN 39:50 Sustainable Development and Resource Management in Africa 44:21 UK's Economic Role in Africa: Debt Relief and Cultural Influence 47:17 Future Development Outcomes for Africa 50:32 Pragmatic Approaches to Foreign Investment in Africa 54:37 Attracting Talent for Governance in Africa 58:26 Personal Aspirations and Future Directions Guest Profile Maudo Jallow is an experienced geopolitical strategist and advisor, with 7 years of experience in advising governments in the Middle East and Africa on strategy, public policy, and geopolitics. Previously, he worked for the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) as a Senior Analyst in the Global Advantage Practice Area, providing expert advice and insights on how MEA nations can attract strategic foreign investment in key sectors.  Maudo holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Business with French from the European Business School in London and a Master’s degree in African Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), where he also served as a Visiting Fellow at the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa.  This podcast is a production of Nexa Media. Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at hello@changeafricapodcast.com Follow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
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7 Ratings

About

Join hosts Isaac Aboah and Daniel Merki as they engage with Africa's most inspiring thought leaders and doers who are driving the continent's transformation. In each episode, we delve into the work and ideas of these changemakers, exploring Africa's challenges and the abundant opportunities for growth and development. In our Winter 2023 season, we delve deep into the stories of mavericks and outliers who are forging the path for Africa's future across various fields, including Media, Entertainment, Non-Profits, Tech, Creative Arts, and Entrepreneurship. Join us on the Change Africa Podcast as we shape a new African narrative that inspires innovation and prosperity.  Connect with us on social media: Change Africa Podcast on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Nexa Media
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    68
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Nexa Media
  • Show Website
    Change Africa Podcast

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