What is the meaning of life? We have grappled with this question for decades. It can be argued that, for many, the main motivation to move through existence intentionally is to leave an impact that will positively affect future generations. 

The youth of today, seemingly aware of this motivation, are working diligently on their futures despite current difficulties in the world.  Internationally, African Diasporan youth continue to make positive strides in their respective lanes, making it easier for  future generations to succeed in their endeavors. 

One of these youth is Nile Andah, an 18-year-old multifaceted storyteller who is sharing his story with the world through writing, acting, and more. This American -born Ghanaian has performed with the Delaware Valley Opera Club, traveled to Peru while performing with the Keystone State Boychoir, achieved the national gold medal recognition for fluency in Spanish, and is one of the youngest writers for Broadway Black. Nile continues to promote diversity and inclusion through the platform he has built through hard work and perseverance. FunTimes Magazine sat down with Nile Andah to learn more about his journey.

Nile’s ideology has been a driving force of his work. He says:

“I was always raised with the idea of leaving a place better than you found it. I use this at the core of everything I do. The thought of inspiring future generations with my actions and art fuels me to keep going. I am at my happiest when I am helping others, so the thought of this motivates me greatly.”

Nile juggles many roles as a performer, writer, and student. Maintaining these passions and professions while prioritizing good organization and health has been integral in continuing his journey to success. He states:

“One thing that helps me manage the calamity is writing everything out and prioritizing my mental health. I also try to stay as organized as possible, because when I lose that order everything goes awry.” 

When describing his favorite project so far, Nile recalls: “It was definitely one of my writing projects with Broadway Black, where I got to pretend to cast one of my favorite Broadway shows with an entirely Black female cast.”

Nile’s advice to Black performers is to have courage in their craft and existence, “Do not be afraid to take up space. Oftentimes, Black performers are either told to be in the background or are seen as expendable and only used for certain tricks. I think it’s important to know that Black performers are so much more than that, and we can show that if we are given the chance.”

 Nana Ama Addo is a writer, multimedia strategist, film director, and storytelling artist. She graduated with a BA in Africana Studies from the College of Wooster, and has studied at the University of Ghana and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Visit her storytelling brand at www.asieduasimprint.blog, and connect with her creative agency on Instagram: @chitheagency.