My African Aesthetic

African Living: Community & Social SustainabilityKinam Imole Konlan (sosial entrepreneur), Terese Mungai-Foyn(Actress and director) and Eunice Nanzala Schumacher(moderator) reflect on how African diaspora communities collectively adapt traditional cultural practices to build thriving, inclusive and sustainable neighborhoods. The panel explores and reflects on how African cultural practices can contribute to social sustainability, building community, and resilience in African diaspora communities and the contexts to which they belong. Eunice Nanzala Schumacher is an architect, curator at the National Museum of art, Architecture and design and founder of My African Aesthetic . Currently a curator of learning and engagement at the National Museum in Oslo, she has over 15 years varied experience in architecture, city and regional planning, design and project management. She is also passionate about education and spends time away from my job with my family, friends and managing My African Aesthetic, a platform that interrogates, documents and celebrates African aesthetics, African design philosophy and African Placemaking.Kinam Imole Konlan is a culinary culture reformer, entrepreneur, and founder of African Food Festival Norway (AFFN) — Scandinavia’s largest celebration of African cuisine and culture. As CEO of BAAT DII AS and founder of Ark Builders Academy, she works at the intersection of food, culture, and community development. Kinam’s work centers on reclaiming and reimagining African food traditions not just as nourishment, but as tools for empowerment, identity, and sustainable community building. Through AFFN, she creates inclusive spaces that honor Africa’s culinary diversity while fostering economic opportunities, especially for women and diaspora entrepreneurs.www.kinam.nethttps://africanfoodfestivalnorway.no/IG @africanfoodfestivalnorwaykontakt@africanfoodfestivalnorway.noTerese Mungai-Foyn is an Oslo-based theatre director, instructor, and performer studying an  MA in directing  at Oslo National Academy of the Arts (KHiO). Mungai-Foyn is also a cultural advocate with a career spanning over two decades in both institutional and independent performing arts. A graduate of Nordic Black Theatre's theatre school, she began as an actor in 1998 before shifting to directing to tell stories on her own terms—centered on authenticity, systemic critique, and social justice. Her directorial work, including the recent production of Blue/Orange, explores themes of power, race, and mental health, and challenges societal norms around accessibility, representation, and inclusion.Mungai-Foyn is deeply committed to collaborative storytelling and community engagement. She believes theatre should serve as a barometer of society—reflecting, challenging, and inspiring action. Her practice is rooted in values such as collective responsibility and cultural integrity, making her an important voice in discussions about how African cultural practices, both traditional and reimagined, can offer sustainable and inclusive models for living.A collaboration with Black History Month Norway. With support from Oslo kommune, Kulturrådet og Fritt Ord.30.10.2025https://www.blackhistorymonthnorway.no/events-1-1/sampson-addae-4yjf3-7rrjy-yzb6dSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Diaspora Dialogues, African Living- African aesthetics in a global context.The talk connects historical and contemporary African aesthetics and design philosophy. We explore how African aesthetics and design philosophy shape and challenge global academic discourse. The panel also reflects on how African perspectives challenge and contribute to the expansion of our knowledge and understanding of design, identity and cultural heritage in an era marked by increasing globalization and the need for decolonization of knowledge. The conversation dwells on both historical and contemporary expressions, focusing on how African aesthetics can provide new impulses for teaching, research and creative practice. Henry Mainsah is a Research Professor at OsloMet and part of the Technology and Sustainability research group at Consumption Research Norway (SIFO). He obtained a PhD in Media and Communication from the University of Oslo and has developed an interdisciplinary research portfolio located at the crossroads between the social sciences and the creative disciplines focusing on digital media, youth culture, design, and interdisciplinary methods. Mainsah’s research covers topics such as digitization, digital literacy, youth culture, smart living, creative research methods, and participatory design. Academic disciplines: Media studies and journalism, Cultural studies, Humanities. Henry is also a Board member at My African Aesthetic.https://www.oslomet.no/om/ansatt/henryma/ Don Lawrence is an award-winning architect and founder of Don Lawrence Arkitekt AS, a contemporary architecture practice based in Oslo, Norway. With degrees from The Cooper Union in New York City and the Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO), Don’s cross-continental education and practice have shaped a design approach that bridges art, architecture, and landscape. His work explores how built form can respond to and shape a place, focusing on cultural narrative, identity, and the natural environment. Don’s practice reflects a deep commitment to rethinking the role of architecture in a global context—one that honors the past while engaging contemporary challenges. As a panelist, he brings a unique perspective on how African aesthetics and design philosophies can expand prevailing architectural discourse, contributing to new modes of teaching, research, and creative practice. www.don-lawrence.com @_don_lawrence_arkitekt T-Michael is a Ghanaian/Norwegian Artist based in Bergen, the western coastal city of Norway. His creative work comprises his eponymous label, Norwegian Rain, T-Kimono, Film lab (short films) and T Creative Spaces.T-Michael is renowned for his eponymous label. His conceptual approach to tailoring is inspired by his love of sartorial traditions and his passionate quest for a different narrative within tailoring, design and creativity.Celebrating stylistic and cultural diversities present in today's zeitgeist, T-Michael's creations are characterized by meticulous attention to detail and impeccable construction. The collection skillfully navigates the convergence of tradition and innovation, seamlessly blending elements from the timeless and the avant-garde.A collaboration with Black History Month Norway. With support from Oslo kommune, Kulturrådet og Fritt Ord.08.10.2025https://www.blackhistorymonthnorway.no/events-1-1/event-one-5j9cr-shd9j-er3s6-2skf5-kxtzx-cxxmf-bxzzn-4mm6z-wtecz-wdr7t-sefz3-mjjn7-ldw8zSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Professor Mugendi Kanampiu M’Rithaa is a pioneering transdisciplinary designer, educator, and President Emeritus of the World Design Organization. He is a thinker whose work spans continents, cultures, and causes, a passionate advocate for design as a transformative force on the African continent and a believer in the idea of “Afrika with a K” – a linguistic and philosophical shift toward self-definition and narrative ownership.In this interview, anchored in the project Unwasted by Holos Creative Solutions Afrika LTD, Mugendi helps us unpack the effects of consumerism, post-consumer waste and colonial legacies on African beauty standards and forms of artistic expression. Unwasted reimagines discarded synthetic hair as a material of value but also sparks deeper reflections on African aesthetics, material culture, and self-definition. We reflect on how African women navigate inherited colonial beauty norms, the environmental burden of synthetic hair, and the loss of indigenous African art, design and architecture knowledge systems. Professor M’Rithaa calls for a reclamation of traditional African hair practices – ethically, aesthetically, and sustainably – illustrating how local and indigenous cultural practices interact with global consumer-driven beauty ideals. He takes us on a journey through African aesthetic traditions – from the symbolic meanings of hair and adornment, to the deep knowledge systems embedded in crafts, patterns and materials. Our dialogue moves beyond African hair aesthetics examining broader questions of community-based craft, circular economies, and how African artists, architects and creatives are shaping a vibrant, self-defined aesthetic. Professor M’Rithaa invites us to rethink our materials, our methods, and our mindsets – in service of a more sustainable, culturally grounded, and creatively liberated future for African aesthetic and design philosophy.Link to UNWASTED Documentary | Holos Creative Solutions (HCS_Afrika Ltd): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aX2WWoguuz4 Produced for PRAKSIS Presents/ https://www.praksisoslo.org/presents. Guest edited by My African Aesthetic under the theme: “African aesthetics- a diasporan perspective”Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, Celia shares how a move from Paris to Norway, and a lifelong pull toward design led her to create Oriaku, a jewelry brand that fuses African craftsmanship with Scandinavian minimalism. She reflects on growing up with a seamstress mother who shaped her understanding of fashion, and how lived experiences in different contexts helped her develop her personal design language.We talk about the work behind her rebrand, the psychology of visual identity, and the ways she reimagines traditional forms—like Fulani earrings—for everyday wear. Celia also offers an inside look at her process of collaborating directly with artisans across Africa, ensuring fair pay, honoring each maker’s strengths, and documenting the histories behind every piece. The conversation expands into identity as well: what it means to find home across Africa, France, and Scandinavia without feeling pressured to choose just one.Themes: African design, Ethical sourcing, modern minimalism, cultural integrity. https://www.oriaku-studio.com/nb, https://www.instagram.com/oriaku_studio/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

George Daniels, Managing Director of the Oslo Afro Arts Festival talks about how the festival contributes to reshaping cultural narratives in Norway through the power of African arts.From teaching salsa classes to directing one of Scandinavia’s most vibrant cultural festivals, George shares his personal journey from South Africa to Oslo—a path fueled by love, fatherhood, and a vision for representation.We dive into how the festival reclaims Oslo’s Grønland neighborhood as a space of celebration, not stigma and negative stereotypes. George talks about curating experiences across generations—children’s drumming workshops, international music acts, fashion shows, food, and more—all aimed at uplifting African-Norwegian voices and building community.Plus, we get a glimpse of his future plans: cross-Nordic collaborations, deeper civic engagement, and growing the festival into a platform for social change.🔗 Learn more at osloafroartsfestival.no and follow @osloafroarts for the latest updates.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Discover how youth-led filmmaking is reshaping cultural narratives in Norway and beyond.In this episode, Regina Ohiama Udalor, producer & director at Peridot Films and founder of the Bragi Film Festival—shares her journey of building a sense of home in Norway while staying rooted in her African identity. Through the Bragi Film Festival, she empowers young people to tell their own stories, explore filmmaking as a career, and or as a bridge to cultural and generational gaps.Regina discusses how collaborative storytelling helps youth tackle personal themes like family, body image, and identity. Her unique approach connects kids from different backgrounds through shared stories and ideas, fostering empathy and highlighting their common humanity.As a film director, Regina blends traditional African storytelling with modern media, creating a powerful space for youth to express themselves as individuals while engaging in cross-cultural connection.Her film @The Lost Cafe was featured on Netflix and won the afriff Audience Choice Award Film 2017This year another film «A warm Christmas» directed by Regina will be showcased on Friday, May 16, 2025 at the African Pavilion/pavilionafriques at the Cannes Film Festival. @peridotent @reginaudalor @bragi_film_festival https://www.pavillonafriques.com@pavillonafriques https://bragifestival.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@peridotstudiosVisit our website or follow us on social media for updates on our work and opportunities to collaborate or support us.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, founder and creative director at Tabanka Dance Ensemble, Thomas Isak Michael Talawa Presto shares his journey of embracing his diverse heritage and the role of Africana aesthetics in his work. He discusses how his supportive family challenged societal stereotypes, shaping his artistic vision. We explore the significance of naming traditions and the profound resistance embedded within them, identity complexities in multicultural settings, and the challenges of seemingly innocent questions that cross personal boundaries. He reflects on how cultural practices like food and dance connect us to heritage and help reconstruct identity in the face of adversity. Thomas delves into the relationship between dance, African aesthetics and identity, offering insights on how cultural legacies shape personal narratives & storytelling through movement. We talk about “The Tawala Technique: An Africognosomatic Approach to Dance”; a technique that he has meticulously developed for over 27 years, one that represents a groundbreaking advancement in African and African Diaspora dance studies. Thomas also discusses the concept of the "cognoscape"—a way to present African perspectives outside Eurocentric academic norms and its intersections with cultural identity, artistic expression, and the ongoing push for inclusivity and decoloniality in the arts.https://tabankadance.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Angelica Maria Castillo Balanta, founder of Miss Balanta Turbans & Headwear, takes us through her life across continents, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of adapting to new cultures. From the lively salsa capital of Cali in Colombia, Panama, Barcelona, and finally to Norway, her journey highlights the essence of community ties that transcend borders. She underscores the significance of building a supportive network and maintaining connections with the Colombian community and other Black friends as this has been pivotal in preserving her cultural identity and authentic self-expression.Angelica also reflects on the symbolism of turbans, not just as a fashion statement but as a cultural and political emblem uniting the African diaspora and allowing them to trace their ancestry- an exploration of African aesthetics that led to recognition at the Smithsonian's African History Museum. Instagram: @missbalanataMiss Balanta was featured in the “In Slavery’s Wake” exhibition at the Smithsonian's African History Museum. https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions/in-slaverys-wakeSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In an engaging conversation with Peter Fongod, we trace his journey from the oil and gas industry to the world of real estate investment. We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of career shifts from oil and gas to real estate; and the hurdles of starting anew which led to the birth of FolksEiendom. He also sheds light on the broader themes of economic opportunities within the African diaspora, highlighting the potential for growth when embracing new ventures. We talk about the evolving landscape of real estate investment for Africans in the diaspora/Norway. He advocates for leveraging resources and collective efforts, drawing parallels with other immigrant communities who successfully build wealth. Beyond financial gains, the conversation touches upon raising children with diverse backgrounds and the power of community and parental involvement in children's activities, reinforcing the value of nurturing relationships and life skills beyond traditional academic settings.Recorded: 31.10.2024https://www.folkseiendom.no/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Dilú Matola shares her inspiring journey from Mozambique to Norway, highlighting her passion for African culture and how it informs her work with AfroCraft; a social enterprise that merges cultural pride with innovation, bringing the beauty of African aesthetics to Norway through fashion. This episode explores Dilu’s commitment to representation, inclusivity, and the transformative power of African aesthetics in diverse contexts. You will hear about; • Dilu’s upbringing during Mozambique's civil war and the impact of childhood experiences on her values• The genesis of AfroCraft and the role of creativity in finding/ building community and preserving cultural authenticity.• The significance of cultural aesthetics in fostering inclusion, connection, social integration and bridging cultural gaps.• How AfroCraft embraces, compliments and contrasts different aesthetics and preferences.Recorded: 12.10.2024https://afrocraft.no/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Don Lawrence shares his transformative journey as an architect, connecting his roots in Jamaica to his experiences in New York and Norway. His family influences and diverse geopolitical experiences shape not only his design approach but also embody the importance of cultural heritage and community in creating meaningful and sustainable spaces. Our discussions highlight the interplay of culture, education, and identity in shaping one's life and design philosophy. We also focus on the significance of sense of place and the African aesthetic in design. Finally, Don discusses an exciting project in Bali, where he and his team combine local craftsmanship with sustainable methods—highlighting the significance of recognizing traditional techniques, drawing lessons from traditional African building techniques and aesthetics. This blend represents a holistic approach to architecture that seeks to honor the materials, the environment, and the individuals who inhabit these spaces.Through Don Lawrence's reflective narrative, we grasp essential lessons about identity, resilience, and the quest for innovative and sustainable design practices. His story serves as a reminder of the profound influence of cultural roots and personal experiences in creating architectural spaces that resonate deeply with the communities they serve.Recorded: 03.08.2024https://www.don-lawrence.com/Visit our website for more insights and updates on our future episodes!Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

When creativity blooms from the rich soil of heritage, stories that both enchant and educate take flight. Solomon W Jagwe, a remarkable visual artist,  joins us to weave a tapestry of his life, colored by the landscapes of Uganda and the pursuit of his passion in the USA. The echoes of his childhood, marked by the inventiveness of toy-making and the shadows of war, resonate through our conversation, revealing the roots of his artistic journey. He takes us through his educational journey, where languages and cultures collide, shaping his approach to storytelling. His internship stories, a humorous vending machine encounter, and a fortuitous meeting that led him to new horizons all underscore the importance of seizing opportunities. Solomon's commitment to his craft and embrace of his heritage illuminate the path for aspiring creatives, demonstrating that every class and every experience weaves into the broader canvas of our professional endeavors. The importance of telling our own stories, nurturing our cultural identities, and documenting our histories is a call to action for all listeners; urging us to hold fast to our heritage and share our unique narratives with the world.  Solomon is the Creator and Director of the award winning «Adventures of Nkoza “Enjovu,The Elephant Tail” animated short film. He is also a writer at Moonbug Entertainment. His practice under the name Sowl Studios majors in Concept Design, Architectural Visualization, 3D Modeling and Animation, Motion Capture, Matte Painting, Illustration, and Story-boarding. He has worked with Rival Interactive, Cornerstone, SAIC, Camber and Floreo. He also shares his knowledge and tips with his over 140,000 subscribers on his YouTube Channel. sowl.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@SolomonJagweinstagram.com/solomonjagwefacebook.com/Art.of.Solomon.W.Jagwehttps://www.nkozaandnankya.com/  https://www.nkozaandnankya.com/mobileapp/            https://www.facebook.com/NkozaandNankya/  Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Cliff A. Moustache founded Nordic Black Theater in Oslo Norway together with Jarl Solberg in 1992.  He is a Seycellois-Norwegian film director, actor, and playwright. In this episode, we reflect on his lifetime contributions to Norwegian society and his relentless dedication to promoting diverse perspectives in Norwegian theatre. As he navigates through his personal experiences, Cliff takes the time to pay tribute to the impactful role of his mother in his life, sharing personal stories and lessons that have shaped him. He shares his struggles with identity, cultural conformity and the story of reconnection with his roots thorugh theatre. Cliff is an advocate for representation, diversity and inclusion in theatre and film, specifically in Norway. He believes in the immense power of storytelling and its potential impact on the younger generation; emphasizing the role African creatives play in telling their own stories and debunking misconceptions. So, whether you’re intrigued by african aesthetics, cherish the influence of motherhood, or advocate for diversity in film and theatre; this episode serves as an inspiring and insightful treat.https://nordicblacktheatre.no/@nordicblackxpress@blacktheatreSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Paul Matovu’s work with Vertical and Micro Gardening (VMG) in Uganda has been nothing short of transformative; his rural upbringing being the catalyst for his passion to improve food accessibility especially in urban contexts. In this episode, we dive into the world of vertical farming, the role of policymakers in this vital and innovative sector, Africa’s role in ensuring its own food security, the importance of embracing African culture in design and mentorship, and the lessons that Paul has learned from his experimentation and failures. Paul’s journey is one of perseverance and adaptability proved fruitful.@vertical_and_micro_gardening @saiga.bairon https://hivecolab.org/vertical-micro-gardeninghttps://vmg.verticalandmicrogardening.org/about/#our-visionhttps://theindexproject.org/award/nominees/5333https://www.climatecolab.org/contests/2016/land-use-agriculture-forestry-livestock/c/proposal/1331576https://vc4a.com/ventures/vertical-and-micro-gardening-vmg/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pl6dX5cl_bkSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Jomo Tariku is an Ethiopian American Industrial designer, artist and data scientist. He was born in Kenya, raised in Ethiopia and currently lives and has his design practice in the USA.  Jomo's work and research has been covered by many publications such as Architectural Digest, de zeen, Vogue, The Design Edit etc. His work is currently in the collection of major museums in the USA and some of his beautiful pieces were featured in the set for Marvel's Black Panther, Wakanda Forever movie. He is one of the founding members of BADG (Black artists + Design Guild)- "a member-driven platform for creative professionals seeking community, collaboration, and creative support.” On this episode; Jomo shares his personal and career journey,  his struggles and achievements on this journey and his hopes and dreams for the future of black designers in Africa and the diaspora. Instagram: @jomotarikuWebsite: https://www.jomofurniture.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Otie Pokua Yankyera is a young architect and researcher born and raised in Ghana. Research & Development , Traditional Architecture , Sustainability and  Local Materials are at the core of her research and practice. In a design space where most young designers aspire towards western architecture, design aesthetics and practices, Otie's passion lies in researching sustainable building practices in indigenous Ghana and Africa . On this episode, we talk about her personal and career journey and her passion for sustainable design and indigenous african buildings; one that she explores through her research and practice under the name Tie` Atelier. Links to Otie's work; youtube.com/@Otie.YankyeraInstagram: @owtieh-https://www.instagram.com/owtieh/@tie.atelier-https://www.instagram.com/tie.atelier/Center for Learning Disabilitieshttps://www.africanfemalearchitects.work/post/668015459739828224/a-centre-for-learning-disabilities-by-otie-pokuaPresentation: Sustainable Building Practices - Northern Ghana I || Otie Pokua Yankyera https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fr6mGHjiKD8 Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Joshua Gwamoiza is the CEO and founder of ECO-MICE landscaping; a landscape design company with the heart to see sustainable and clean outdoor environments in Uganda. With a unique landscaping brand that emphasizes team execution, innovation, and systematic operations, the firm aims to offer environmental master planning, landscape design and landscape remodeling services that improve their clients´ outdoor living spaces. This young and enthusiastic team aspires to be Africa’s best employer and Africa’s safest place to work. In this episode we talk about what inspires Joshua, his practice and his thoughts on landscape design in Uganda and Africa.https://landscapeuganda.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Evelyn Mugisha´s architecture and design career journey is bold, daring, versatile and inspiring.  She is an Architect and project management practitioner from Uganda. She moved to Australia in 2019 and currently works at Infrastructure Victoria, an independent infrastructure advisory body for the State of Victoria in Australia. Evelyn shares her fascination for cities, the large scale urban infrastructure that makes up cities and how this infrastructure works. She offers her views on the state and the future of African cities of infrastructure, pointing us to some innovative and sustainable solutions. We are intrigued and inspired by Evelyn's personal and career achievements, specifically her process of transitioning to a different career path with architecture and design as her backbone/foundation.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Fungi Dube is a self-taught brand and visual identity graphic designer from Harare, Zimbabwe who has created a career for herself in design and visual storytelling. She describes her approach to design as being rooted in strategic, intentional and calculated sensibilities. Fungi is enthusiastic about designing from her African roots while being intentional about honoring designers who have played a key role in shaping Afrikan design. In this episode, Fungi reminds us that the African narrative is multi-diverse and multi-directional.  She also points us to the rich, relevant and very much available inspiration that is to be found in our African contexts, heritage and day to day life; tasking us with the challenging and encouraging us to go outside, observe and talk to our own  people about their everyday  lives and  processes. Instagram: @fungidubegraphicshttps://www.fungidube.com/my-linksSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Kinam Konkan Konlan is the founder of African Food Festival Norway (AFFN), the largest celebration of African culture, cuisine and heritage in the Nordics. She is from Ghana and moved  to Norway with her family at the age of 2. She is passionate and  enthusiastic about telling the African food story,  sharing our collective African food heritage and highlighting its place globally. Kinam believes that African food connects to the expression of who we are as africans; the memories and histories we share as individual African countries with various tribes but also as a continent.https://kinam.net/african_festival Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode ,we talk to Ibrahim Elhayawan, an architect born and raised in Cairo, Egypt.  He takes us through his career journey ; from his early days in Egypt, to his 12 years at SNØHETTA a prestigious Norwegian design office, and eventually to Various Architects. In 2008, he Co-founded Various Architects, a Norwegian architectural studio- a mixture of youthful and experienced staff with various backgrounds, that prioritizes environmental solutions and innovative sustainable designs and encourages cross disciplinary engagement in architectural practice. We also talk about the opportunities and challenges of working in a foreign context and how leading and working with a diverse cultural and design team looks like. Recorded:  20.03.2022  https://variousarchitects.no/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

On this episode; co-hosts; Eunice N Schumacher and Penina Acayo Laker start off  this seasons recap  on a high note and share highlights and lessons learned from  an amazing group of practitioners this season: Architects (Tosin Oshinowa, Jesse Tukacungurwa), Graphic Designers and researchers and educators (Tapiwa Matsinde, Henry Mainsah) and revolutionary design thinking enthusiast changing the game (Ateh Nkem Atabong). Many thanks to all our gusets!Our first article is out in Uganda´s architectural journal by the Uganda Society of Architects (USA)Our very own; Penina Acayo Laker has co-authored a book; “The Black Experience in Design:  Identity, Expression & Reflection . She briefly shares about the book and  her experience on this book.We celebrate and congratulate on architect Francis Kere on his achievement, the first African to win a Pritzker Architecture Prize (It’s about time!!!)Podcast collaborations and “Spin offs” are underway! Our website is live and will be a place you will want to keep your eyes out for as we document upcoming collaborative projects with some of our guests.Netflix celebrates African talent in new documentary seriesMade by Design.Highlight publications.Fashion Illustration Africa Paperback – November 2, 2016Author: Tapiwa Matsindehttps://www.atelier55design.com/Contemporary Design Africa Paperback – Illustrated, June 2, 2015Author: Tapiwa Matsindehttps://www.atelier55design.com/The Black Experience in Design- Identity, Expression & ReflectionAuthors: Anne H. Berry, Kareem Collie, Penina Acayo Laker, Lesley-Ann Noel, Jennifer Rittner, Kelly WaltersSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Henry Mainsah is a Research Professor, media and design scholar at the Institute for Consumption Research at the Oslo Metropolitan University in Norway (OsloMet). He is originally from Cameroon and has lived, studied and worked in different African and European contexts. He obtained his PhD from the University of Oslo. He worked at the university of Oslo, and later worked as an Associate Professor at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design.  His research interests include interdisciplinary research methods, digital media, design, identity, digital literacies, and youth culture. His publications are available in print and on the internet. In this episode, we talk about; Design Research and how it compliments  design practice;Social media design and its relevance to showcasing african design and designers; andAfrican Identity and designPublications: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=mt2Kf2kAAAAJ&hl=enSupport the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Tapiwa Matsinde is an author, an independent curator, a content creator, a design consultant and design business mentor. Storytelling is at the heart of what she does. She draws a lot of inspiration from her Zimbabwean heritage and the rich and diverse  cultural heritage from the African continent and African diaspora. Her practice is focused on shining a light on designers, artisans and creatives  who are underrepresented in the creative industries in Africa and the African diaspora.  She shares their stories, and helps them tell their own stories through her award-winning platform atelier 55; that started as a blog and has evolved into an invaluable resource in telling African design stories. She also hosts a podcast called " Behind The Design" where she engages in insightful conversations with designers and creatives from Africa.Books: Contemporary Design Africa, ifa-Pure Gold, Fashion Illustration Africahttps://www.atelier55design.com/Instagram: @atelier55designwww.tapiwamatsinde.com Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, we chat with Ateh Nkem Atabong, a pharmacist and business development expert originally from Cameroon, now based in Norway. Ateh has a strong connection to Africa and is passionate about driving innovation across various sectors, especially healthcare, agriculture, and logistics. He’s the co-founder and CEO of SAWA AS, an agribusiness company importing high-quality African ingredients to Europe, and the founder of HETA Consult, which focuses on healthcare solutions for the African market. Ateh also holds leadership roles on several boards, including the Norway Cameroon Business Council and African Trade Group. With years of experience in startups and business development, Ateh dives deep into how design thinking can play a crucial role in solving Africa's healthcare challenges and creating sustainable solutions. Tune in to hear more about his inspiring journey and vision for Africa's future.https://www.hetaconsult.com/https://www.sawa.no/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, we chat with Ateh Nkem Atabong, a pharmacist and business development expert originally from Cameroon, now based in Norway. Ateh has a strong connection to Africa and is passionate about driving innovation across various sectors, especially healthcare, agriculture, and logistics. He’s the co-founder and CEO of SAWA AS, an agribusiness company importing high-quality African ingredients to Europe, and the founder of HETA Consult, which focuses on healthcare solutions for the African market. Ateh also holds leadership roles on several boards, including the Norway Cameroon Business Council and African Trade Group. With years of experience in startups and business development, Ateh dives deep into how design thinking can play a crucial role in solving Africa's healthcare challenges and creating sustainable solutions.  https://www.sawa.no/https://www.hetaconsult.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Architect Jesse Tukacungurwa is a Registered Architect, with over 15 years of experience in building projects design, project management and supervision. He is the director of design at ONCEPTi Architects in Kampala Uganda; a firm that he started 12 years ago. Jesse holds a Bachelor degree in Architecture from Makerere University in Kampala-Uganda and a Masters degree in Sustainable building Technology from the University of Nottingham. His practice specialises in Sustainable building design aiming to transfer  knowledge and skills on how to bring down the energy load of buildings and create architectural solutions for the African context.https://www.oncepti.net/about-us/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Tosin Oshinowo is a Nigerian architect, Designer, Creative Entrepreneur, Culture Enthusiast, History Junkie & Mummy. Tosin holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Kingston University,  a Masters in Urban Design from the Bartlett School of Architecture London and an Architecture Postgraduate Diploma from the Architecture Association, London.She had her early professional practice in London and Rotterdam before moving to Nigeria. Tosin is the founder and Director of CmDesign Atelier/OSHINOWO STUDIO, an Architectural Design Consultancy firm she set up in 2012 in Nigeria.  It is a collaborative, informed and aspirational design practice that strives to work with people as people and not just as clients; creating places conscious of materiality, light and spatial experience.In 2017, she founded ILE ILA (House of Lines), a contemporary handmade Nigerian lifestyle furniture line which celebrates her native Yoruba culture and is known for its period- conscious, bold and colorful expressions made in Lagos, Nigeria. https://www.oshinowostudio.com/tosin-oshinowo/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

After such a rich first season, Eunice and Penina (co-hosts) sit down and reflect upon key themes such as: the role of identity and knowing ones heritage when designing in the African context; the value of telling our own stories, in our own African way and lens; and how our education system needs to stay relevant to meet the demands of today's landscape;  that emerged from our conversations with our guests. A huge thank you to all our guests for sharing their stories and invaluable experiences with us. To all our listeners, we appreciate your support, messages and words of encouragement. We look forward to building upon ideas from season one, in addition to introducing you to a new group of designers and architects living and practicing on the continent and the diaspora.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Jude Yaw Agboada is a visual communication designer, educator and branding expert from Ghana. He currently resides in St. Louis, Missouri and teaches communication design at the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri where he holds a position as the 2019-21 Louis D. Beaumont Artist-in-Residence.Through his design practice, Jude has worked with clients like Ghana International School, University of Ghana Business School, and GIZ Ghana. Jude uses storytelling and dialogue to explore ways to encourage difficult conversations across cultures. In his practice, Jude explores how people define community, identity and culture via multidisciplinary approaches- ranging from artist books to public installations.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Jude Yaw Agboada is a visual communication designer, educator and branding expert from Ghana. He currently resides in St. Louis, Missouri and teaches communication design at the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri where he holds a position as the 2019-21 Louis D. Beaumont Artist-in-Residence.Through his design practice, Jude has worked with clients like Ghana International School, University of Ghana Business School, and GIZ Ghana. Jude uses storytelling and dialogue to explore ways to encourage difficult conversations across cultures. In his practice, Jude explores how people define community, identity and culture via multidisciplinary approaches- ranging from artist books to public installations.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Doreen Adengo is an Architect based in Kampala, Uganda where she runs an architectural firm called Adengo architecture. Much of Doreen’s work is focused on communicating the value of professional design services in African cities.  In a context where non-designers often build their own homes, schools, and other structures, she believes that it’s critical to make the case that architects and urban planners can improve people’s everyday lives, helping cities develop sustainably.After completing her undergraduate and graduate studies at the Catholic University and Yale respectively, Doreen worked for design firms in London, Washington DC, and New York. She has taught at The New School and Pratt Institute in New York and at Uganda Marty's University, and until recently served as a visiting critic at University of Johannesburg’s Graduate School of Architecture. Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Abigail Turinayo thrives on Creativity! As a practicing fine artist, who then studied architecture from Makerere University in Kampala Uganda, worked and lived in both Europe and Africa, she is extremely passionate about the role design plays in innovatively creating order and solving many of the world's complexities. She currently serves as Head of Design at Design without Borders, as well as Director on the Board, Africa Office, one of the first of its kind Industrial design studio based in Kampala. A core part of her practice is rooted in co-design, a fundamental approach used to effectively respond to people’s needs during the creation of innovative products, services, or spaces. Over the past 7 years she has lead design projects with foundations, public and private sector institutions, humanitarian agencies, and social enterprises; and spoken widely on the value of design in the fast-growing African context. Through these collaborations, she has worked on projects such as the redesign of sanitation and housing solutions for slum communities in Kampala; developed financial literacy and reproductive health tools for the empowerment of rural communities in Uganda, and undertaken clinical studies for the introduction of a medical device for effective IV therapy for children.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

Abigail thrives on Creativity! As a practicing fine artist, who then studied architecture from Makerere University in Kampala Uganda, worked and lived in both Europe and Africa, she is extremely passionate about the role design plays in innovatively creating order and solving many of the world's complexities. She currently serves as Head of Design at Design without Borders, as well as Director on the Board, Africa Office, one of the first of its kind Industrial design studio based in Kampala. A core part of her practice is rooted in co-design, a fundamental approach used to effectively respond to people’s needs during the creation of innovative products, services, or spaces. Over the past 7 years she has lead design projects with foundations, public and private sector institutions, humanitarian agencies, and social enterprises; and spoken widely on the value of design in the fast-growing African context. Through these collaborations, she has worked on projects such as the redesign of sanitation and housing solutions for slum communities in Kampala; developed financial literacy and reproductive health tools for the empowerment of rural communities in Uganda, and undertaken clinical studies for the introduction of a medical device for effective IV therapy for children.Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, Prof. Mugendi K. M’Rithaa reflects on his time as president of the World Design Organization and his passion for mentoring young African designers, inspired by the legendary Esther Mahlangu. He also discusses the evolving "state of design in Africa" and the need to create homegrown narratives that redefine the African aesthetic—highlighting the significance of "Afrika with a K" vs. "Africa with a C."As a transdisciplinary designer, educator, and consultant, Prof. M’Rithaa’s work spans areas like Design Thinking, climate change mitigation, and inclusive design. He’s a founding member of the Network of Afrika Designers and has served in various global design networks. Currently, he teaches at Machakos University and leads Holos Creative Solutions, a design consultancy that champions socially conscious, innovative solutions rooted in African culture. Tune in to hear about his inspiring journey and the transformative role of design in shaping Africa’s future.https://www.hcs-afrika.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, we’ll be diving into the work of Prof. Mugendi K. M’Rithaa, a transdisciplinary industrial designer with a focus on socially conscious design. Prof. M’Rithaa has taught across several countries, including Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, and Sweden. His expertise spans areas like Design Thinking, Human-Centered Design, climate change mitigation, social innovation, and universal/inclusive design. He’s particularly passionate about how design can advance Africa’s developmental agenda and address complex problems.He’s a founding member of the Network of Afrika Designers and has been involved with global design networks, including the Association of Designers of India. He also served as the President of the World Design Organization, where he worked to elevate industrial design’s role in solving critical issues around the world. Currently, he’s teaching at Machakos University in Kenya and leading Holos Creative Solutions, a design consultancy focused on co-creating innovative, socially conscious solutions that celebrate African culture. Tune in to learn about his inspiring work and how design can make a real difference in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.https://www.hcs-afrika.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode we chat with Laverne Wyatt, a graphic communications manager, author, social entrepreneur and African design enthusiast from Durban, South Africa. Laverne shares with us how growing up during apathied in South Africa opened her eyes to issues of inequality and exclusion from an early age—schools were segregated based on race and class. Infact, she only learned about design accidentally at the age of 16 when an employee of her mother noticed her talent for drawing. Today, she resides in Norway where she works as a senior branding expert. Laverne continues to find inspiration from her own South African heritage and helps people discover their potential while being their most authentic self. She does this through Bloom with Laverne Wyatt, a platform and podcast dedicated to sharing stories of how people choose to bloom abroad. //open.spotify.com/show/2m7xp35J7GOgTWeNH2GhGG?si=c8d3bf65f58d4b56Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

 Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere talks about transitioning from architecture school into professional architectural practice—being trusted to be the resident architect of Uganda’s new State House construction in Entebbe. His passion for education and research eventually saw the development of SASA Innovation Design Center, with a vision to transfer design knowledge, encourage innovation and challenge young African designers to develop solutions that are relevant to their context. https://www.sasaarchitects.com/Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/

In this episode, Dr. Kenneth Ssemogerere; a Registered and Practicing Ugandan Architect, Educator, Project manager and Founder of SASA Innovation Design Center talks about his upbringing, educational background and how he arrived at architecture as a career path. He reflects on the challenges we continue to face in the way we teach design and architecture in Uganda and Africa in general.  https://www.sasaarchitects.com/ Support the showInstagram: @myafricanaesthetic Website: https://www.myafricanaesthetic.com/