Afro Leads

This season's final guest was the one, the ONLY Mr Kofi Smiles!!! Born in Beverley, Yorkshire to Ghanaian parents. Kofi studied English and Journalism at Northumbria university where he was heavily involved in the student radio station and “Kofi Smiles” was born- as one could “hear” his smile as he broadcast down the airwaves. Fast forward to late 2016 when he fought off competition from almost 200 other hopefuls to be crowned “The BBC’s FACE of Hull”. Kofi is a natural presenter both on tv and radio, but don’t let this fool you- this man works hard and is totally dedicated to his craft. Completely passionate about music, he continues to work for BBC Radio Humberside. He launched his successful “No Filter” evening show and digital platform - this radio show was full of awesome, eclectic music, pop culture and input and discussion from local people covering a range of topics. He is now the radio humberside Breakfast show host! Check him out weekdays from 6-10am or listen again on the BBC sounds app!

This week's guest and former "man crush Monday" post is a fabulous husband, father, teacher (former-principle no less✊🏾✊🏿✊🏽) and author... Mr Jeffrey Boakye! He was born and raised in Brixton, of Ghanaian heritage, and now resides in Yorkshire. Jeffrey has written several books- his most recent “I heard what you said” is a timely exploration of how we can dismantle racism in the classroom and do better by all our students. Jeffrey shares his insights as a former Black student, English teacher and headmaster who has often felt on the margins of the British education system. The book includes enlightening encounters based on the often challenging and sometimes outrageous things people have said to him or about him. 2023 is earmarked for the first of 3 fictional books due to be released: “Kofi and the rap battle summer” we are here for this! Jeffrey was a delight to speak to and get to know more and the pearls of wisdom which filled our conversation were fascinating and enlightening. We hope you enjoy listening to this fabulous man and author whose current and up and coming publications are a beacon of light for all society.