A Year to Remember
For many reasons, it’s important to highlight and celebrate the incredible contributions of Africans in the diaspora in 2024. The year was nothing short of transformative. Taking time to reflect on all the incredible moments that made that year, from innovative startups shaking up industries to cultural festivals, you’d agree that the impact was profound. We saw nations come together to tackle climate change, technological innovations reshape our daily lives, and a renewed commitment to social justice that sparked conversations worldwide.
Many Africans made headlines with their entrepreneurial spirit that not only thrived but also bridged connections between Africa and their new homes. We also cannot but acknowledge how artificial intelligence (A.I) rapidly became even more integrated into daily life, revolutionizing industries from healthcare to education.
Renewable energy solutions became more accessible, and grassroots movements pushed for sustainable practices
worldwide. There were many initiatives aimed at supporting mental health awareness within the diaspora community and it did gain traction. Organizations led by Africans have provided crucial resources and support systems, helping individuals navigate the challenges of living abroad.
Looking ahead to 2025, there is an excitement for new opportunities. The diaspora is set to play a significant role in shaping narratives around investment in Africa, cultural exchange, and sustainable development. With a renewed focus on collaboration and innovation, Africans abroad are ready to make an even greater impact.
Cheers to carrying the lessons and triumphs of 2024 into the new year, building a world that is inclusive, sustainable, and inspired by the strength of its people.
image Source: theafricacenter (Instagram)
Lupita Nyong’o
From Acting Queen to Production Powerhouse
Lupita Nyong’o isn’t just slaying on screen anymore, she’s calling the shots behind it!
In 2024, we saw our favorite Yale drama graduate (yes, she’s beauty and brains, deal with it!) stepping into the producer’s chair with the grace of a gazelle and the determination of a lioness. Remember when we thought she couldn’t top her Oscar-winning performance?
Well, Queen Lupita said, “Acting? That’s cute, but let me show you how to run the whole show! Her production company, which honestly deserves a name as elegant as she is, has been picking up scripts faster than designer sales.
She’s revolutionizing African storytelling in mainstream media with beautiful narratives. No more “Africa is a country”, she’s making sure every story has the complexity and nuance it deserves. As she famously said during a press conference, “If you thought my red carpet looks were detailed, wait until you see how I produce stories!”
Her initiatives have opened doors for emerging African talent faster than you can say “Wakanda Forever.” From championing untold historical narratives to contemporary African diaspora stories, she’s created a pipeline for authentic voices that Hollywood didn’t even know it needed. And she’s doing it all while maintaining her status as a fashion icon because who says you can’t run a production empire in Versace?
The impact? Well, let’s just say her production slate is tackling everything from Afrofuturism to intimate family dramas, proving that African stories aren’t a monolith, they’re as diverse as her acting portfolio and her red carpet wardrobe. Lupita’s impact on the film industry is sure to grow even more. With her passion for storytelling and commitment to uplifting others, we can expect a wave of exciting projects that will not only entertain but also educate audiences about the richness of African cultures.
Image Source: The Net.ng
If there’s one thing Iyin Aboyeji knows how to do besides rocking those signature glasses, it’s spotting unicorns before they grow their horns. The co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave isn’t just playing in the startup sandbox anymore, he’s rebuilding the entire playground across North America with Future Africa fund. Remember when everyone thought African tech was just about mobile money? Well, Iyin said “I’m about to prove you wrong!” and proceeded to show the world that African innovation could dance to any beat. Future Africa’s expansion into North America isn’t just another investment fund story, it’s like watching your favorite DJ mix traditional African rhythms with Big Bang Theory’s soundtrack.
In 2024, Future Africa wasn’t just writing cheques, they were writing the future. From Toronto to Texas, Iyin and his team were scouting for African talents. What’s particularly impressive is how Future Africa is flipping the narrative. It’s no longer just about Silicon Valley investing in Africa, it’s about African funds taking bold bets on global innovations. Their portfolio reads like a “Who’s Who” of next-generation innovators, with investments spanning
everything from AI to climate tech.
In boardrooms across North America, “What does Future Africa think?” has become as common a question as “What’s your valuation?” And if you’ve ever seen Iyin break down complex investment strategies, you know it’s passionate, precise, and absolutely convincing. With his leadership and vision, we can expect a wave of exciting projects that not only elevate African narratives but also create lasting change. Who knows? The next big tech breakthrough might just be brewing right under our noses!
The Science Superhero You Need to KnowDr. Jean-Jacques Muyembe
Remember the doctor who helped discover Ebola in 1976? Well, he didn’t just rest on his laurels because who needs rest when you’re saving the world, right? Dr. Muyembe’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. He has dedicated over four decades to studying Ebola, and if that doesn’t scream “passion,” we don’t know what does!
He spent 2024 revolutionizing how we think about viral diseases and announced significant advancements in vaccine efficacy making breakthroughs that had the medical community buzzing with excitement. His team discovered a way to enhance the immune response, making the vaccine not only more effective but also more accessible. It’s like finding out your
favorite dish can be made with fewer ingredients—everyone wins!
What makes Dr. Muyembe truly special isn’t just his brilliant mind, it’s how he bridges continents with his work. While some researchers treat Africa as just a data source, he’s out here building two-way streets of knowledge exchange. Working between North American research institutions and his home base in the DRC, Dr. Muyembe’s team developed new approaches to viral detection that are so fast, they make instant noodles look slow.
But wait, there’s more! Dr. Muyembe is also a strong advocate for local healthcare systems in Africa. He believes that empowering local scientists and healthcare workers
is crucial for sustainable progress. After all, who better to tackle local health issues than those who understand the community? It’s like asking a chef to cook their own recipe—nobody knows it better!
Dr. Jean-Jacques Muyembe’s impact on global health continues to grow. His dedication to research and community empowerment serves as an inspiration for future generations of scientists. So here’s to Dr. Muyembe, a true hero in lab coats, proving that with determination and innovation, we can conquer even the most daunting challenges! Who knew saving the world could be so exciting?
Image Source: Getty Images
SPORTS
The 7’4” Rookie Who Made Everyone Look Up (Literally!)Victor Wembanyama “Wemby”
Fever
Let’s talk about Victor Wembanyama, or as basketball fans call him, “The Guy Who Makes Other NBA Players Look Like They Forgot to Eat Their Vegetables”. A towering 7 feet 4 inches, Wembanyama isn’t just tall; he’s a walking highlight reel, and we’re here for it!
In 2024, the French-Congolese basketball prodigy kicked off his rookie season with such flair that even seasoned players are taking notes. Wemby (yes, we’re on nickname terms now) spent his rookie season making professional basketball look like a game he invented in his backyard.
The stats? They’re ridiculous. But what’s more entertaining is watching NBA veterans realize they need to jump approximately three years earlier to have any chance of blocking his shot. The most entertaining part? Watching commentators try to describe his plays, HOW DID HE DO THAT?! became a common phrase in sports broadcasting.
Off the court, Victor is charming fans and media alike with his humble demeanor and infectious smile. He’s the kind of player who makes you want to cheer for him even if he plays for your rival team. You can’t help but root for someone who seems genuinely excited to be living out his dream.
Wembanyama’s impact goes beyond just stats. He’s inspiring a new generation of basketball players, especially in Africa and beyond. Young athletes are looking up to him not just because he’s literally taller than most, but because he embodies the idea that hard work and dedication can lead to incredible opportunities. It’s like he’s saying, “Hey kids, reach for the stars… or at least for the rim”
As we look forward to the rest of the season, one thing is clear, Victor Wembanyama is not just another rookie; he’s a phenomenon. To Victor - may your rookie season be as legendary as your height.
Image Source: Getty Images
Image Source: Wikipedia
Image Source: vanessanakate1 (Instagram)
SOCIAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABILITY
The Climate Queen -Vanessa Nakate
If you thought climate activism was just a passing trend, think again. Vanessa Nakate, the Ugandan climate warrior with a heart as big as her ambitions, is shaking things up in North America. In 2024, she expanded her advocacy efforts across the continent, and let’s just say, Mother Nature is taking notes!
She expanded her “Rise Up” movement across North America with the energy of someone who caught the last bus to an important meeting. From college campuses to corporate boardrooms, Vanessa was dropping truth bombs about climate justice with the precision of a meteorologist who finally got the weather right.
Her approach? Making climate activism as relatable as explaining to your parents why their Facebook posts need better privacy settings. During one memorable speech in Toronto, she said, “The climate crisis is like that one friend who keeps telling you they’re ‘five minutes away’ – except instead of being late, they’re bringing extreme weather patterns!” The audience didn’t know whether to laugh or take notes – so they did both!
But don’t let the humor fool you. Nakate’s work is serious business. She’s been connecting African climate initiatives with North American resources. Her partnerships between African youth activists and North American environmental organizations are so iconic and the most impressive part? She’s made climate action accessible to everyone.
Her social media game is stronger than your average internet connection and her Instagram lives about environmental justice get more views than cat videos. That tells you people are listening! Through her work, she’s proving that climate activism isn’t just about pointing fingers, it’s about joining hands across continents. And she’s doing it all while maintaining her signature style of making complex environmental issues as digestible as your favorite snack.
So here’s to Vanessa. A true champion of our planet. With her leading the charge, we can expect more laughter, inspiration, and hopefully, a healthier Earth for generations to come.
Personal Crisis to Global Impact -Kendra Fipps
Hold onto your marketing manuals, people, because this story is better than your best-performing Facebook ad. Meet Kendra Fipps, the direct response marketing guru who’s taking the industry by storm after turning life’s plot twist into a bestselling story literally.
Picture this: 16 years ago, when most of us were still figuring out if MySpace was still cool, Kendra was facing every parent’s nightmare, her son’s severe illness. But instead of letting the challenge dim her light, she pulled a classic superhero move and turned it into her origin story. Talk about making lemonade from lemons. She made a whole marketing empire. Kendra’s expertise in echo marketing systems and audience growth has earned her the title of certified Direct Response Copywriting Specialist and Business Coach.
This Belleville, Illinois powerhouse isn’t just collecting certifications, she’s out here making history. Kendra casually made history by organizing the first Underground Railroad Conference in Toronto bringing together communities from the U.S, Canada, and beyond. It was like a family reunion. That’s if your family reunion included deep discussions about history and community empowerment instead of awkward small talk about politics.
When you talk about putting your money where your marketing is, Kendra is also a champion for social causes. Her Cycle For Success initiative in Gambia is providing feminine products to girls because let’s face it: every girl deserves to maintain her dignity and continue her education without interruptions—no one should miss class because they can’t find supplies.
Looking ahead, Kendra is excited to expand her impact even further. The Women Creating Wealth Academy is her way of saying, “Move over, traditional business schools, we’re doing this the direct response way” And with two Amazon bestsellers under her belt, she’s proving that her “7 Secrets to Overcome Any Obstacle” methodology isn’t just another PDF download you’ll never read.
From the heartland of Illinois to the heart of Africa, Kendra Fipps is showing us that the best direct response isn’t just about click-through rates, it’s about creating real, meaningful change. And she’s doing it all while probably writing the most compelling email subject lines you’ve ever seen. So here’s to Kendra! A true trailblazer who proves that when you combine passion with purpose, anything is possible.
Empowering Beauty and Independence One Girl at a Time - Lucy Wambui
Meet Lucy Wambui, a business mogul from the stunning landscapes of Kenya, who is redefining beauty and empowerment in her community. Currently based in Kenya, Lucy runs a thriving beauty salon and is on a mission to mentor young girls to become independent and financially savvy.
With her salon as the launchpad, Lucy has spent years training aspiring beauticians, helping them master the art of hair and makeup while also teaching them how to run their own businesses. She’s like the fairy godmother of the beauty industry, sprinkling her magic dust of knowledge and inspiration everywhere she goes. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want a fairy godmother who can also give you the perfect blowout?
But wait, this isn’t just about making people look good (though she’s exceptional at that too). Lucy’s taking young entrepreneurs under her wing faster than you can blend your contour. Her mentorship program is like a master class in beauty business, minus the intimidating price tag. “I have been able to help others start their own business,” she says, casually dropping this information like it’s not the most inspiring thing since the invention of the ring light. And by “others,” she means an army of fierce, independent
women who are now running their own beauty empires.
Her vision for the future is to create products suitable for ALL women across the world. Because in Lucy’s beauty book, everyone deserves to shine, whether you’re rocking natural looks in Nairobi or glam in Georgia. This year, Lucy Wambui is set to continue her journey of impact and empowerment. With her passion for mentoring and her entrepreneurial spirit, she’s paving the way for a new generation of independent women in the beauty industry. Who knew that behind every great salon is a woman on a mission to change the world?
In the heart of Toronto, Youth Now On Track Services (YNOT) stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for Black youth and their families. Established in 2006, YNOT has been unwavering in its mission to address the challenges faced by marginalized communities, offering programs that promote education, life skills, mentorship, and employability training.
A Holistic Approach to Youth Empowerment
YNOT’s comprehensive services are designed to tackle the multifaceted issues confronting Black youth, including financial hardships, single-parent family dynamics, street violence, and immigration challenges. By focusing on prevention and collaboration, YNOT addresses daily stresses, peer pressure, educational hurdles, and mental health concerns, fostering an environment where youth can thrive.
KEY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
• After-School Homework Support: Academic assistance for children aged 4 to 13, focusing on excellence in Math and English grammar.
• Youth Employment Skills Training: Equipping youth with essential job skills like computer literacy, resume preparation, and job search strategies.
• Mental Health Support and Counseling: Providing support for behavioral issues, mental health challenges, and parental navigation of school systems.
• Summer Camp Programs: Offering personal growth opportunities, fostering teamwork, leadership, and self-confidence.
LEADERSHIP: PASTOR FRANCIS UBAH
At the helm of YNOT is Pastor Francis Ubah, the Executive Director and visionary leader whose dedication has been instrumental in the organization’s success. With a background in mentoring, coaching, and counseling, Pastor Ubah has been a steadfast advocate for youth rights in Canada and globally. His exceptional leadership has transformed countless lives, offering support to new immigrants and marginalized groups across diverse communities.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
Over the years, YNOT has made significant strides in empowering Black youth:
• 2,105+ Children have attended the ECGT Summer Camp Program.
• 660+ Youth have benefited from mental health workshops and mentorship programs.
• 584+ Families have received support through parent and immigrant-focused initiatives.
Support YNOT in this amazing cause by becoming part of their mission to empower Black youth. Whether through donations, volunteering, or partnerships, your involvement can help shape a brighter future for countless young lives. For more information or to get involved, visit YNOT Services or contact them at info@ynotservices.org. Together, we can uplift, empower, and transform the lives of Black youth in our community.
YOUTH PULSE
Dismas Kibungei Kogo - A Rising Star in Youth Leadership
Dismas Kibungei Kogo, President of the Diaspora Youth Network, a leading organization empowering and supporting youth, recently received the prestigious “Exceptional Dedication and Outstanding Contribution to Positive Impact within the Afro-Descendants Community as a Youth Leader” award from the Impact Diaspora Summit 2024. This recognition underscores Dismas’s remarkable journey and his unwavering commitment to empowering young people.
Dismas’s work spans various domains, including education consultancy and logistics management. He has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to identify challenges and develop innovative solutions, empowering young people to reach their full potential.
In accepting this prestigious award, Dismas dedicated it to his late mother, a powerful testament to the profound influence of motherhood in shaping his life and values. “My mother’s selfless service,” he shared, “inspired me to strive for a life of purpose and to always prioritize the well-being of others.” This dedication beautifully reflects the core values of many African cultures, where mothers are revered as pillars of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love.
As we move forward, Dismas has a powerful message for the youth: “Embrace your unique gifts, cultivate your talents, and never be afraid to dream big. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and remember that your voice matters. Together, we can build a brighter future for the Afro Diaspora.”
Dismas’s leadership exemplifies the vibrant pulse of youth within the Afro Diaspora. His dedication to education, his innovative approach to logistics, and his unwavering commitment to community upliftment through his role as President of the Diaspora Youth Network make him a true role model for young people across the globe.
Dismas’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to service, young people can achieve extraordinary things. He inspires us all to embrace our leadership potential and contribute to a more just and equitable world.
100 Black Women to Watch: The Vision and Excellence Behind the Black Pearls Gala
In the vibrant tapestry of Canada’s Black community, the Canadian International Black Women Event (CIBWE) stands as a luminous thread, weaving stories of achievement, resilience, and empowerment. At the heart of this transformative movement is its Executive Director and founder, Rose-Cathy Handy, a woman whose vision and dedication have redefined what it means to celebrate and uplift Black excellence.
THE VISIONARY BEHIND CIBWE: ROSE-CATHY HANDY
Rose-Cathy Handy is no ordinary leader. She is a trailblazer, a connector, and a champion for the limitless potential of Black women. With a career that spans years of tireless advocacy, she has built CIBWE into an organization that not only celebrates success but also ignites dreams. Her passion for fostering leadership,
innovation, and community has transformed lives and created a legacy that inspires generations.
Through her leadership, RoseCathy has ensured that CIBWE is more than just an organization— it’s a movement. By recognizing the remarkable achievements of Black women across Canada, she has created a space where stories of triumph and perseverance shine, amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard.
THE BLACK PEARLS GALA: A REFLECTION OF EXCELLENCE
Under Rose-Cathy’s guidance, the Black Pearls Gala has become a marquee event, celebrating the achievements of 100 Black women who are transforming industries, communities, and the cultural fabric of Canada. Scheduled for Saturday, October 26th, 2024, this year’s gala promises to be an evening of inspiration and connection, where the stories of extraordinary women will take center stage.
From business leaders and educators to artists and innovators, the honorees are carefully chosen for their impact and dedication. Each story reflects the core values Rose-Cathy has
championed throughout her career: excellence, resilience, and the courage to lead.
ROSE-CATHY’S LEGACY OF EMPOWERMENT
Beyond the gala, Rose-Cathy’s contributions extend into every aspect of CIBWE’s initiatives. She has fostered mentorship programs, created platforms for women to showcase their talents, and developed events that celebrate cultural heritage and professional achievement. Her unwavering commitment to excellence has positioned CIBWE as a beacon for those striving to break barriers and redefine success.
Through her work, RoseCathy has not only elevated the achievements of others but has
also demonstrated the boundless possibilities that come with vision and determination. Her leadership exemplifies the essence of the Black Pearls Gala—an event that honors not just individual achievements but also the collective power of a united community.
AN INVITATION TO CELEBRATE
As the Black Pearls Gala approaches, it is an opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of leadership and the extraordinary women who embody it. Join us on October 25th, 2025, to honor the achievements of 100 remarkable Black women and celebrate the visionary leadership of RoseCathy Handy, whose passion and dedication continue to inspire excellence.
Save the Date: Black Pearls Gala Saturday, October 25th, 2025 For more details, visit: www.cibwe.ca
At Afro Diaspora Pulse, we are proud to spotlight changemakers like Rose-Cathy Handy and the incredible work of CIBWE. Stay tuned for more stories celebrating the excellence of the African diaspora.
FUN FACTS
Did You Know?
Listen, when they say Africans go hard for education, they’re not joking!
Here’s the tea: Our people weren’t just getting degrees, they collected them like infinity stones. But it’s not all books and lectures. Did you catch that viral TikTok trend of second generation kids learning native languages from their parents?
Pure gold. The food scene? Oh, the food, Nigerian restaurants had the whole of North America saying, “Another plate of jollof, please”
From food trucks in Houston to fine dining in Vancouver, Africans took over the culinary scene and added extra pepper.
