Gabriel Mahia

In today's global conversation, we often overlook the deeply entrenched effects of history on our daily lives. From the tea we sip to the way we conceive family and individuality, the marks are indelible. Here, we dive into the complex interplay between colonial legacies and the evolution of private life in Africa—a theme whose resonances echo across continents and through time. Colonialism was not a chapter but a novel, a sprawling epic that wrote itself into the identity, culture, and very homes of Africans. So potent were its imprints that they linger today, shaping how the private sphere in Africa has evolved. One cannot truly grasp this impact without acknowledging that it's a two-way street. As W.E.B. Du Bois encapsulated in the idea of "double consciousness," the African identity is forever changed, yet forever powerful, continuously redefining itself in the face of colonial legacies. Now let's slow down and savor the wisdom in the African proverb, "If...

The story of a humble bead from Africa finding its way onto the necks of Hollywood A-listers isn't just a narrative of aesthetic evolution; it's a tale of cultural imprinting that moves far beyond the notion of mere adornment. Ever paused and examined a piece of jewelry you were about to wear? The beads, the gems, the texture. They are so much more than random collections of shiny objects; they are intricate tales woven in metal and stone. Well, get ready to rethink that string of beads or that gold cuff on your wrist, because it might just have an ancestral lineage tracing back to African soil. If you think you're wearing just a piece of jewelry, think again—you're donning a history lesson, a geography test, and a culture class all rolled into one. Hold up, and listen to this: there's a habit we all need to embrace, especially if you're a LinkedIn power-user like I presume you are. Before putting on your jewelry every morning, pause. Just pause. Look at that pi...

Why are we still wondering who wears the pants in a family when some cultures in Africa have had that figured out for generations? Come dive into an exploration of matrilineal societies in Africa. We might just unearth a lesson or two about power dynamics, culture, and yes, feminism. You Think You Know Family Structures? Let’s Take a U-Turn We all know about patriarchy, right? You'd have to be living under a rock, or in a man cave watching endless reruns of "Mad Men," not to. But how often do we take the time to recognize and appreciate societies where women aren't just running the household, but they’re also the ones passing down the lineage? Yeah, you heard that right. In certain African communities, you trace your lineage through your mama, not your papa. That's like Ancestry.com with a Beyoncé soundtrack, ladies and gentlemen! The Habit That Makes You Rethink Everything What's a daily habit that could keep this idea in your head? Let's take an easy one...

Language is the very fabric of our existence. It's not just words or sounds but a profound expression of culture, identity, and humanity. The languages we speak shape our worldviews and influence the way we connect with others. Now, let's delve into an often-overlooked aspect of global linguistics: African languages. African Languages: A Rich Tapestry Africa is a diverse continent boasting over 1250 languages. These languages are more than just dialects; they are unique symbols of various African cultures, brimming with wisdom, history, and art. But the question that often arises is, do African languages hold a significant place in global linguistics? The unequivocal answer is yes. Influence on Major Languages African languages have notably influenced major global tongues, like English and Portuguese. Words like "jazz," "safari," or "banana" have roots in African languages. These borrowings reveal the profound impact of African linguistics on the g...

Afrofuturism is an aesthetic, philosophical, and cultural framework that explores the merging of African culture with technological innovation. This fusion offers a unique way to redefine the future and present African narratives in a global context. The Rich Heritage of African Culture African culture is a complex and multifaceted tapestry that has influenced civilizations for centuries. From art, music, and literature to philosophy and societal norms, the African heritage is something that reverberates in many aspects of human life. Embracing Technology In a rapidly advancing world, technology has become a central part of our lives. The way we communicate, work, and even think is now intertwined with technological innovation. But how does this mesh with traditions and cultures that date back thousands of years? Fusion of Two Worlds Afrofuturism is not just about projecting African culture into the future. It's about blending the rich and diverse African heritage with cutting-edge...

African dance is not just an art form, it's a cultural celebration, a means of communication, and an essential part of the tapestry that weaves together the continent's diverse traditions and modern expressions. From the mesmerizing rhythms of West Africa to the energetic steps of South African gumboot dancing, the continent is bursting with variety and vibrance. Traditional Dance Styles African traditional dances often tell stories, celebrate an occasion, or serve a purpose within a community. In East Africa, for instance, Maasai warriors perform jumping dances to demonstrate their stamina and strength. In Ghana, the Adowa dance is characterized by delicate hand movements, narrating symbolic stories. Each hand gesture in this dance has a specific meaning and is part of an intricate language of its own. Contemporary African Dance The contemporary African dance scene is equally exciting and filled with creativity. Influenced by global trends and styles such as hip-hop and jazz, ...

As we embark on this vibrant journey into the heartland of African folklore, we step into a realm where every tale is a delicate thread in the rich tapestry of Africa's cultural heritage. These ancestral stories, embedded deep within the African psyche, have for generations shaped perspectives, guided values, and cultivated a sense of identity and belonging. Folklore, in its simplest terms, is a collective inheritance of stories passed down through generations, intricately woven into the fabric of a community's daily life. In Africa, these narratives, often passed orally, are far more than mere entertainment. They carry the weight of wisdom, the echoes of the past, and the aspirations of the future. At the heart of African folklore are vibrant characters: anthropomorphized animals, spirits, ancestors, and gods, each playing pivotal roles in these elaborate narratives. Through their adventures and misadventures, these characters exemplify human strengths and frailties, offering ...

America is a blend of diverse cultures, each with a unique story, contributing to the great American tapestry. One such narrative is that of African immigrants, a group that brings rich traditions, languages, and perspectives, reshaping and enriching American life. African immigrants form a diverse group, hailing from countries with vastly different cultures, histories, and languages. They're united by the shared experience of navigating the complexities of American life while preserving and adapting their unique traditions. It's not a homogenous experience, but a series of unique, intertwined stories, each worth telling and understanding. African immigrants have made significant strides in American society. Many have earned degrees, started businesses, and made vital contributions to sectors ranging from healthcare to technology. They've broken stereotypes, overcome obstacles, and continued to make their presence felt. Yet, there are also challenges. African immigrants mus...

Africa is a diverse continent, a dynamic tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that ripple through time, inspiring millions around the globe. One of the most compelling of these African-inspired ripples is the impact of its music on global pop culture. African music, in its varied forms, has been a potent force in shaping global pop culture, breathing life into genres, stirring emotions, and fostering a collective identity. From the infectious rhythms of Afrobeat that inspire body movements to the soulful harmonies of traditional African hymnals that echo in modern gospel music, Africa’s musical heritage has permeated the world’s pop music landscape. At the heart of this influence is the African drum - the Djembe, Talking Drum, and Kpanlogo, to name a few. These instruments have been key in creating the heartbeat of various music genres, from jazz and blues to hip-hop and reggae. The syncopated beats, the emphasis on off-beat rhythms, the call-and-response pattern, all found ...

Black hair is a universe unto itself, shaped by a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and personal narratives. Each coil and twist tells a story; each style is a testament to a legacy that spans continents and centuries. From the intricate braiding techniques to the embrace of natural hair styles, black hair is not just about fashion - it's an embodiment of identity, resilience, and heritage. In the heart of Africa, hair has always been a significant aspect of identity. Historically, hairstyles were a clear indicator of a person's clan, marital status, age, and even socio-economic status. Hairstyles were a language, unspoken but deeply understood. Intricate braiding techniques, passed down through generations, were not simply about creating eye-catching styles; they were a communal activity, a coming together of women in a circle of storytelling, advice sharing, and bonding. Braids, in particular, carry a historical significance that is as intricate as their patterns. Braidi...

In the sprawling cosmos of cultural expression, a vibrant meteor has streaked across the sky, captivating audiences worldwide. That meteor is Afrofuturism – a fusion of African culture with science fiction, redefining the narrative of what it means to be African in the future. Afrofuturism is not merely a genre—it's a cultural aesthetic, a philosophy of science, and a lens of history. It marries the diverse, rich tapestry of African culture with the boundless potential of the future, and it’s becoming increasingly influential in arts, literature, and film. Let’s start by unraveling the term. Afrofuturism is a blend of two concepts. On one hand, we have 'Afro,' representing the vast expanse of African cultures, histories, and identities. On the other hand, we have 'futurism,' embodying forward-thinking visions and imaginative possibilities of the future. It’s a novel realm where ancient African traditions meet spaceships, where ancestral spirits converse with artific...

What's in a culture? It's a complex blend of rituals, values, traditions, and history that shape a community's identity. As we take a journey between two vibrant cultures - African and African American - we'll explore not only their individual uniqueness but also their shared roots and bonds. From the rhythm of the drumbeat in a West African village to the soulful tunes of jazz in New Orleans, music has been a universal language bridging these two cultures. African music, with its rich melodic and rhythmic patterns, has profoundly influenced African American music genres like blues, jazz, and hip-hop. Yet, each culture has innovatively blended and transformed these influences to create music that distinctly speaks to their experiences and narratives. Another notable common thread is spirituality. African traditional religions, with their reverence for ancestors and nature, have left indelible marks on African American religious practices. Yet, the African American exper...

When we think about history, we often focus on the well-known empires and kingdoms of Europe and Asia. But Africa, the second-largest continent on Earth, is brimming with a rich tapestry of pre-colonial history that remains relatively unexplored. Today, we're embarking on a journey to uncover the lost kingdoms of Africa that have shaped the continent's history and culture. A Land of Diversity and Complexity Africa is not a monolithic entity but rather a diverse and complex amalgamation of cultures, languages, and histories. Over the centuries, Africa has been home to some of the world's most advanced and powerful kingdoms, each with its distinct characteristics and contributions to the global narrative. The Kingdom of Axum: The Crossroads of Civilization Nestled in modern-day Ethiopia, the Kingdom of Axum was a prominent trading and cultural center between the 1st and 7th centuries AD. As a crossroads of civilizations, Axum played a crucial role in connecting Africa, the Me...

When it comes to martial arts, the first thing that comes to mind might be the popular and widely practiced forms originating from Asia, such as Karate, Taekwondo, and Kung Fu. However, Africa, with its diverse and vibrant cultures, has a rich and often overlooked history of martial arts. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of African martial arts, uncovering the uncommon and unusual practices across the continent that deserve a spotlight. The Roots of African Martial Arts African martial arts can trace their roots back thousands of years, with evidence of their practice found in ancient Egyptian tombs and texts. These martial arts have evolved over time, shaped by the unique environments, cultures, and histories of the African continent. Some of these fighting styles were created for self-defense, while others have their origins in religious or spiritual practices. Capoeira: A Dance of Resistance One of the most well-known African martial arts is Capoeira, which originated...

Once upon a time, long before the written word, people passed down stories from generation to generation through oral traditions. In Africa, the art of storytelling is a sacred skill that has been perfected over centuries. Griots, the gifted storytellers, have been the keepers of history, culture, and tradition. Today, we can learn valuable lessons from their remarkable methods to enhance our own storytelling abilities and to better understand the power of stories in shaping our world. The Griot: Africa's Storyteller Griots are more than just storytellers; they are the living repositories of African history and culture. Serving as poets, musicians, historians, and genealogists, griots carry the weight of their communities' stories on their shoulders. The griot's role is a revered and respected one, with their unique skills passed down through generations, ensuring the preservation of knowledge, wisdom, and cultural identity. The Power of Oral Traditions Oral traditions tran...

Imagine a world where Africa's rich cultural heritage converges with cutting-edge technology and innovative design. It's not just a dream; it's Afrofuturism. This artistic and cultural movement is reimagining the future and redefining the role of African creatives in shaping our world. Let's explore the captivating universe of Afrofuturism and the brilliant minds behind it. The Emergence of Afrofuturism Afrofuturism is a term that was coined in the 1990s by cultural critic Mark Dery. It refers to a creative movement that explores the intersection of African culture, technology, and the future. Afrofuturism is characterized by its boldness and innovation, as artists, designers, and technologists draw inspiration from Africa's rich history and vibrant traditions to envision a new, more inclusive future. The Power of Representation One of the driving forces behind Afrofuturism is the desire to reclaim and reshape African representation in media, art, and design. For to...

There's a certain beauty and magic that surrounds the vast and diverse languages spoken across the African continent. With over 2,000 languages, Africa is a linguistic treasure trove just waiting to be explored. Each language represents a unique culture, history, and way of life that contributes to the rich tapestry of African heritage. As members of the African diaspora, it's important that we dive into this world of linguistic diversity and understand the significance of our mother tongues. The Power of Language: Connecting Cultures and People At its core, language is a means of communication that connects us with others. But it is so much more than that. It's a bridge between generations, a vessel for our cultural identity, and a key to understanding the world around us. For the African diaspora, our mother tongues hold the key to unlocking our ancestral roots and strengthening the bonds that tie us to our homeland. African languages are more than just words; they are th...

The African diaspora is a term used to describe the people of African descent who live outside of Africa. The diaspora includes people who were enslaved and transported to the Americas, as well as those who have migrated to other parts of the world. The African diaspora is a diverse community with a rich history and culture. Africans have made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, and politics of the world. They have also played a vital role in the development of the Americas. The African diaspora is a global community that is connected by a shared history and culture. Africans are united by their common experiences of slavery, colonialism, and racism. They are also united by their shared hopes and dreams for the future. The African diaspora is a powerful force for change in the world. Africans are working together to build a better future for themselves and their communities. They are also working to promote understanding and respect between Africans and other peoples of th...

The African diaspora refers to the dispersion of African people from their ancestral homeland to various parts of the world. This was mainly due to the transatlantic slave trade and subsequent migration patterns. Today, there are vibrant African communities living across the globe, each with their unique cultural practices and identities. In this blog post, we will explore the African diaspora, looking at the different communities and cultures of Africans living across the world. The African Diaspora in the Americas: The African diaspora has had a significant impact on the Americas, with millions of Africans forcibly transported to the region during the transatlantic slave trade. Today, African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, and Afro-Latinos are among the largest African diaspora communities in the world. These communities have contributed immensely to the culture, music, and art of the Americas. The African Diaspora in Europe: The African diaspora in Europe has also grown significantly i...

When it comes to fashion, African culture has a lot to offer. African fashion is known for its vibrant colors, bold patterns, and intricate textiles, which have become increasingly popular in the global fashion industry. In this article, we'll take a journey through African fashion, exploring the colors, patterns, and textiles that make it so unique. Colors One of the most striking aspects of African fashion is its use of bright and bold colors. African fashion designers often use colors that are inspired by nature, such as deep greens, oranges, yellows, and reds. These colors not only reflect the natural beauty of the continent but also symbolize various aspects of African culture. For example, red is often associated with power and strength, while yellow represents wealth and prosperity. Patterns African fashion is also known for its intricate patterns, which are often inspired by traditional African textiles. These patterns vary widely, ranging from geometric shapes to floral de...