tag:www.funtimesmagazine.com,2005:/categories/culture-entertainment?page=34Culture + Entertainment Culture + Entertainment | FunTimes Magazine Page 34Celebrating Africa And Its Diaspora2023-03-08T14:47:05-05:00urn:uuid:5a19569d-d91c-4743-80c5-ef951dfbdbcb2023-03-08T14:45:21-05:002023-03-08T14:47:05-05:00When the events come marchin’ in!2023-03-08 15:00:00 -0500FunTimes Staff<span><p><b>March 6, 2023 Week, FunTimes Magazine</b><br><b><i>FunTimes</i> Fun Events: Culture, Education & Entertainment!</b></p><p><br></p><br><p>Any month is a great time to showcase the many talents of women. March officially gives us a good reason to celebrate their power, prowess and passion during Women’s History Month. Here are some free or low-cost webinars, concerts and pop-up events focusing on inspirational Black music, art, business, conversation and culture -- courtesy of some super-talented women and men. </p><p>But before venturing out to these in-person activities, please respect the ongoing pandemic safety protocols, and check individual event-attending instructions with the organizers. As a general rule: If you feel unwell, please do not attend in person.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986494/fill/700x0/image3.png?timestamp=1678302062"></div><h2> <br>Worth the hour: Workshop for female entrepreneurs</h2><p><span><br><br></span></p><p><b>March 23, 2023.</b> Mark your calendar (you won’t regret it) for<i> FunTimes Magazine</i>'s special Women's History Month presentation – an inclusive virtual event called <b>How to Build Your Business Tool Box: What makes a successful female entrepreneur? </b>The can’t-miss workshop explores business start-up tips, growing your business from A to Z, and how to secure funding and city contract and procurement opportunities. Guided by engaging moderator Lavonne Nichols, leading business-development experts Towanda Livingston, Iola Harper, and Monique Joyner will inform, educate, enlighten and empower women. The open discussion includes a Q&A. Live on Zoom. Free, noon to 1 p.m., <a href="http://ow.ly/cMer50N8aeC" target="_blank">Register Here</a>.</p><p>Related articles:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/12/10/420515/are-black-women-business-owners-dominating-wellness-space-" target="_blank">Are Black Women Business Owners Dominating Wellness Space?</a></h4>
<p>Here are a few fast-growing and well-established Black woman-owned businesses you can support to keep our wealth-building efforts growing. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/12/10/420515/are-black-women-business-owners-dominating-wellness-space-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/01/19/424082/best-africans-and-african-americans-entrepreneur-books" target="_blank">Best Africans and African Americans Entrepreneur Books </a></h4>
<p>For African and African American entrepreneurs, several books stand out as precious resources. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/01/19/424082/best-africans-and-african-americans-entrepreneur-books">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986497/fill/700x0/image5.png?timestamp=1678302285"></div><p> </p><h2>WOMEN’s WAY webinar untangles taxes & gender wealth gap</h2></span><span><p><b>March 15, 2023.</b> The webinar, <b>Closing the Gender Wealth Gap: It’s Time to Talk about Taxes and the Gender Wealth Gap</b>, is just in time for tax season. Take a deep dive into tax policy in the United States and its connection to the gender wealth gap. Learn from an impressive panel of powerbrokers about the influence of race and gender when crafting and evaluating tax policy and how the tax system could be more equitable. The webinar comes to life through the insights of moderator Allison Acevedo, Esq., Philanthropy Director at <a href="https://www.nbme.org/" target="_blank">NBME</a> and panelists <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/01/17/424079/passionate-about-serving-people" target="_blank">Nikia Owens, PhD</a>, President & CEO of <a href="http://cwfphilly.org" target="_blank">Campaign For Working Families</a>, Inc. and Meg Fosque, Program Officer, <a href="https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/commitment/economic-equity/" target="_blank">Economic Policy Investments and Grantmaking at The Rockefeller Foundation</a>. It’s part of WOMEN’S WAY’s ongoing informative “Closing the Gender Wealth Gap Forum” series. Free, 4 p.m., Women’s Way, 123 S. Broad St., Suite 1320, email: info@womenway.org or 215-985-3322, <a href="http://womensway.org" target="_blank">womensway.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Related articles:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/03/08/427817/black-community-s-wealth-disparity" target="_blank">Black Community’s Wealth Disparity</a></h4>
<p>Today, one of the most important issues facing the Black community is the racial wealth gap. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/03/08/427817/black-community-s-wealth-disparity">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/03/15/393055/let-s-talk-about-credit-credit-building-strategies-for-black-communities" target="_blank">Let’s Talk About Credit: Credit-Building Strategies for Black Communities</a></h4>
<p>“Financial literacy, economic empowerment, and wealth-building are going to be the last leg of the civil rights movement. Because one step towards financial literacy takes you two steps t... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/03/15/393055/let-s-talk-about-credit-credit-building-strategies-for-black-communities">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/06/11/359267/7-black-women-who-will-improve-your-financial-literacy" target="_blank">7 Black Women Who Will Improve Your Financial Literacy</a></h4>
<p>Whether you're managing your student loan debt, searching for a better way to budget, these 7 Black women have the financial know-how to help you improve your finances. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/06/11/359267/7-black-women-who-will-improve-your-financial-literacy">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986499/fill/700x0/image4.png?timestamp=1678302365"></div><h2> </h2><h2>Artists’ pop-up chat!</h2></span><span><br><p>March 12, 2023. Who does not like a pop-up anything? The Women’s Coalition for Empowerment, Inc. knows that and gladly brings the <b>Creatives Chat Series 2023</b>, a pop-up series of curated discussions “infusing creative industry topics, best practices, networking and live music.” The pop-up is moderated by Shekhinah B., author of the <i>Art Economic Empowerment Workbook</i>, an artistic multihyphenate, arts administrator, Edutainer and vocal performer. All types of artists are invited to discuss what’s on their minds during an open dialogue exploring innovative approaches towards creative freedom. Free, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St., 708-792-3462, <a href="https://creatives-series.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank">https://creatives-series.eventbrite.com/</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986501/fill/700x0/image7.jpg?timestamp=1678302498"></div><p> </p></span><span><h2>Women’s showcase at marketplace</h2><br><div><b>March 11 & 12, 2023. </b>Celebrate Women's History Month at<b> Live More Marketplace</b>. Enjoy and buy the handiwork of dozens of female-owned businesses in the fields of visual artists, wellness and makers from the Philadelphia region. Check out handmade crafts, health products, art pieces and creative products. Opportunities for vendors: vendor applications. There is an accessible entrance from noon to 7 p.m. Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-more-marketplace-womens-history-month-tickets-557071514897" target="_blank">eventbrite.com</a><span>.<br><br><br><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986504/fill/700x0/image6.jpg?timestamp=1678302620"></div><p><br></p><h2> Jazz photographers in front of the lens</h2><span><br><p><b>March 10, 2023. </b> Tune in to PHLgovTV (Comcast channels 64 and 1164, Verizon channels 40 and 41) in the Philadelphia region and check out the latest online episode of Arts Access TV featuring <b>Philly Jazz Talks About Jazz Photographers by Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project</b>. Local photographers Bruce Turner, Anthony Dean and L. David Hinton talks about their shooting techniques and passion for jazz. Their life-long images are featured. It’s presented by the <a href="https://phillyjazzhistory.org/" target="_blank">Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project</a> and partially funded by the <a href="https://www.philaculturalfund.org/" target="_blank">Philadelphia Cultural Fund</a>. Free, online, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Arts Access TV is part of the <a href="https://www.creativephl.org/" target="_blank">City of Philadelphia’s Office Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy </a>in collaboration with PHLGovTV. Arts Access TV and the Arts Access Calendar. <a href="https://www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-innovation-and-technology/phlgovtv/" target="_blank">PHLgovTV</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983544/fill/700x0/black_20violin.jpeg?timestamp=1678302719">Key Marcus and Wil Baptise</div></span><span><br><h2>Mozart meets Marvin Gaye</h2><br><p>March 9, 2023. Classical kicks it with hip-hop. It’s a modern-day mash-up of classical and hip-hop. Call it class hop. And this innovation that bridges the strings of generations is making classical music accessible. <b>The Black Violin Experience Tour </b>headlines with the two-time Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin of Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste performing their out-of-the-box musical mix of classical sounds and hip-hop beats. Marcus gives a dazzling violin performance, along with Baptiste’s grabbing viola and vocal performance. Nat Stokes is on drums, DJ SPS on the turntable, and Liston Gregory on keys. They create a crossover orbit in which Mozart, Marvin Gaye and Kendrick Lamar are playing as a family all in one house. Tickets: $44 to $85, 7:30 p.m., Miller Theater, 250 S. Broad St., 215-893-1999, <a href="https://www.kimmelculturalcampus.org/events-and-tickets/202223/kcp/black-violin/" target="_blank">kimmelculturalcampus.org</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Related article:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/06/22/403649/c-elebrate-and-support-our-classical-music-artists-as-we-re-define-classical" target="_blank">Celebrate and support our classical music artists as we re-define classical</a></h4>
<p> I was super impressed to view and find out about the all-African American Re-Collective Orchestra that served as the musical backdrop to CNN’s Juneteenth TV production. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/06/22/403649/c-elebrate-and-support-our-classical-music-artists-as-we-re-define-classical">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986505/fill/700x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1678302827"></div><p> </p></span><span><h1>Femme Ensemble lunchtime treat</h1><br><p>March 24, 2023. Have lunch and enjoy another emerging Philadelphia group, <b>The Femme Ensemble</b>. The 6-member group from the <a href="https://www.uarts.edu/" target="_blank">University of the Arts</a> was formed in 2019 to provide a supportive environment for women, trans and gender-expansive musicians to perform. It’s part of the Kimmel Center’s “Lunchtime Unplugged” series. Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.,215-893-1999 or <a href="https://www.kimmelculturalcampus.org/events-and-tickets/202223/free/plaza-events/lunchtime-unplugged/femme/" target="_blank">kimmelculturalcampus.org</a>.</p><br></span><div><br></div><span><p><br></p><br></span></div></span><div><br></div><div><br></div><span><p><br></p><p><br></p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:5f4876d6-e13f-4a07-a7f7-999970d6e0712023-03-06T10:50:48-05:002023-03-07T14:27:02-05:00Make 'Em Laugh: The Best Black Female Comedians2023-03-07 15:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>Comedy is among the most treasured forms of art today. Through it, comedians talk about pertinent issues, make light of moments, and pass on enlightening information. Black female comedians have been on top of their game for a while now.</p><p>Many funny black women have found success in other aspects of the entertainment industry. They will not only give you a great laugh but are also talented actresses with award-winning roles in <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/01/425258/must-see-black-movies-in-2023" target="_blank">films</a> and <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/08/07/408099/5-best-black-tv-shows-of-2022" target="_blank">television shows</a> in Hollywood and <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/07/425617/five-popular-festivals-in-south-africa" target="_blank">South Africa</a>. </p><p>Whether you’re into political humor, commentary on romance, or sketch comedy, there’s something for everyone on this list of Black female comedians.</p><p><br></p><h2><br></h2><h2>1. Loni Love</h2><br><p>A proud Detroit native, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/comiclonilove/" target="_blank">Love</a> was raised in the same Brewster-Douglass Housing Projects as Diana Ross. Love also earned an electrical engineering degree, until later launching a career in stand-up comedy. She was the runner-up on Star Search 2003 and was named among the "Top 10 Comics to Watch" in both <a href="https://variety.com/" target="_blank">Variety</a> and <a href="https://www.cc.com/" target="_blank">Comedy Central</a> in 2009. Love is the Executive Producer of <i>Little Women Unfiltered: Atlanta</i> - an after-show for<i> </i><a href="https://www.mylifetime.com/shows/little-women-atlanta" target="_blank"><i>Little Women: Atlanta</i></a><i>,</i> season six on Lifetime. Love is a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community, she holds the 2022 WOWIE award for Best Queen Comedian. She was one of the co-hosts of the syndicated daytime talk show <i>The Real</i>.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986221/fill/700x0/image3.png?timestamp=1678210759"></div><p><br></p><p> </p><h2>2. Nicole Byer</h2></span><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/nicolebyer/" target="_blank">Nicole Byer</a> is a comedian, actress, and television host. She is known as the host of the Netflix comedic reality bake-off series <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80179138" target="_blank"><i>Nailed It!</i></a>, for which she received two Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Byer gained recognition for her work in the commentary series <a href="https://www.mtv.com/shows/girl-code" target="_blank"><i>Girl Code</i></a>. Byer's first full-length special, <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/81489095" target="_blank"><i>Nicole Byer: BBW (Big Beautiful Weirdo)</i></a>, premiered on Netflix in December 2021 and earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special. Byer described <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/11/13/334864/whoopi-goldberg-hollywood-icon" target="_blank">Whoopi Goldberg</a>, Tina Turner, and Mo'Nique as her early inspirations.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986222/fill/700x0/image2.png?timestamp=1678210852"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>3. Leslie Jones<br></h2></span><span><p>She started doing stand-up comedy in 1987 and was a cast member and writer on <i>Saturday Night Live</i> from 2014 to 2019. In 2017 and 2018, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lesdogggg/" target="_blank">Jones </a>was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her work on SNL. In 2008, Jones was part of Katt Williams's It's Pimpin' Pimpin' tour, and Netflix signed Jones for a stand-up special slated for 2020.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986227/fill/700x0/image5.jpg?timestamp=1678211946"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>4. Tiffany Haddish<br></h2></span><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tiffanyhaddish/" target="_blank">Tiffany</a> was born on 3rd December 1979 in Los Angeles, California, to an Eritrean-Jewish father and an African American mother. She started doing comedy after graduating from high school and got her first big break in 2006. Her Netflix special, <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80221271" target="_blank"><i>Black Mitzvah</i></a>, dropped on her 40th birthday, describes her long road to womanhood, her discovery of her Jewish heritage, and singing and dancing that’s bound to make you laugh out loud.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986228/fill/700x0/image4.png?timestamp=1678211989"></div><h2> </h2><h2><br>5. Wanda Sykes</h2><br><p></p></span><span><p><a href="https://twitter.com/iamwandasykes" target="_blank">Wanda Yvett Sykes</a> is a stand-up comedian, actress, and writer. She was first recognized for her work as a writer on <i>The Chris Rock Show</i>, for which she won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1999. In 2001, she won the American Comedy Award for Funniest Female Stand-Up Comic. Aside from her television appearances, Sykes has also had a career in film, appearing in <i>Monster-in-Law</i>, <i>My Super Ex-Girlfriend</i>, and <i>Evan Almighty</i>, as well as voicing characters in animated films such as <i>Over the Hedge</i>, <i>Barnyard</i>, <i>Brother Bear 2</i>, <i>Rio</i> and <i>UglyDolls</i>. In 2015 she won the Activism in the Arts honor at the Triumph Awards.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986229/fill/700x0/image7.png?timestamp=1678212042"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>6. Maya Rudolph<br></h2></span><span><p>The daughter of legendary singer <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnie_Riperton" target="_blank">Minnie Riperton</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/princesstagram/" target="_blank">Maya Rudolph</a>, has managed to make a career outside of the shadow of her mom as a hilarious part of the SNL cast. The comedian actress started as a singer before pursuing comedy and has been one of the famous performers on <i>Saturday Night Live</i> since 2000. Since 2017, she has voiced various characters in the Netflix animated sitcom <i>Big Mouth</i>, including Connie the Hormone Monstress, which won her Primetime Emmy Awards in 2020 and 2021. For her portrayal of United States senator and vice-presidential candidate <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/01/20/343280/kamala-harris-makes-history-as-she-is-sworn-in-to-her-role-as-vice-president" target="_blank">Kamala Harris</a> on SNL, Rudolph won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series.</p><p><br></p><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986230/fill/700x0/image6.png?timestamp=1678212073"></div><h2><br></h2><h2> 7. Yvonne Orji</h2><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/yvonneorji/" target="_blank">Yvonne Anuli Orji</a> is a Nigerian-American actress and comedian. She is best known for her role in the television series <i>Insecure</i>, for which she was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award and three NAACP Image Awards. She gave a speech at TEDxWilmingtonSalon in 2017 titled, "The Wait is Sexy". In the talk, she explains her reasons for abstaining from sex before marriage. In 2021, she began development on a series for Disney+ titled <i>First Gen</i>. The series is based on her personal life and is produced by <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/01/31/344011/media-mogul-and-philanthropist-oprah-winfrey-celebrates-her-67th-birthday" target="_blank">Oprah Winfrey</a> and David Oyelowo. Orji is the author of the book <i>Bamboozled by Jesus</i>.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986232/fill/700x0/image9.png?timestamp=1678212154"></div><p> </p><h2>8. Sheryl Underwood</h2><br><p></p></span><span><p><a href="https://twitter.com/sherylunderwood" target="_blank">Sheryl Patrice Underwood</a> is an American comedian, actress and television host. She first rose to prominence in the comedy world as the first female finalist in 1989's Miller Lite Comedy Search. Underwood is one of the hosts of the CBS Daytime talk show <i>The Talk</i>, becoming the show's longest-running co-host, a role she first stepped into in September 2011. She has received one Daytime Emmy Award with seven nominations. Underwood is also a member of the <a href="https://ncnw.org/" target="_blank">National Council of Negro Women</a> and the <a href="https://naacp.org/" target="_blank">NAACP</a>. She also founded the African-American Female Comedian Association.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986233/fill/700x0/image8.png?timestamp=1678212202"></div><p> </p><h2>9. Quinta Brunson </h2><br><p></p></span><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/quintab" target="_blank">Quinta Brunson</a> is an American writer, producer, actress, and comedian best known for creating, executive producing, co-writing, and starring in the ABC comedy series <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/01/31/388450/what-s-the-buzz-on-abbott-elementary-" target="_blank"><i>Abbott Elementary</i></a>. Brunson gained prominence for her self-produced Instagram series <i>Girl Who Has Never Been on a Nice Date</i>. For Abbott Elementary's first season, she was named <i>Time</i>'s 100 Most Influential People of 2022. At the 74th Primetime Emmy Awards, she became the first Black woman nominated three times in the comedy category. She won the Emmy for Outstanding Writing For a Comedy Series for the show, making her the first black woman to win that award solo. In August 2022, Brunson signed a multi-year overall deal with Warner Bros. Television, the co-production studio of her show.</p><p><br></p><p>Related article:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/31/388450/what-s-the-buzz-on-abbott-elementary-" target="_blank">What’s the Buzz on Abbott Elementary?</a></h4>
<p> One major difference between this show and many of the shows before it, is that Abbott Elementary focuses on a mostly black cast of teachers and administrators serving an underfunded bla... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/31/388450/what-s-the-buzz-on-abbott-elementary-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986234/fill/700x0/image12.png?timestamp=1678212249"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>10. Celeste Ntuli<br></h2></span><span><p><br></p><p>Among her many achievements, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/celestentuli/" target="_blank">Celeste</a> is listed as the first local female comic to record a one-woman show DVD, ‘<i>Seriously, Celeste.’</i> Celeste Ntuli impressed the judges in the second season of SABC 1’s So You Think You’re Funny competition in 2009, making her a finalist. Since then, her star has been shining, leading her to perform in huge shows like<i> </i>Blacks Only comedy showcase in 2010 and 2012, the first Stand Up Zulu comedy show.</p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/08/27/409482/most-powerful-women-in-entertainment-industry-south-africa-edition" target="_blank">Most Powerful Women in Entertainment Industry - South Africa Edition </a></h4>
<p>Let's look at some ladies who have led the road and left their mark in their different sectors. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/08/27/409482/most-powerful-women-in-entertainment-industry-south-africa-edition">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986235/fill/700x0/image10.png?timestamp=1678212335"></div><p> </p><span><h2>11. Janelle James</h2><br><p></p></span><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/janellejamescomedy" target="_blank">Janelle James</a> is an American comedian, actress, and writer. She is best known for her role as Ava Coleman in the television series <i>Abbott Elementary</i>, for which she won a Black Reel Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and an NAACP Image Award, in addition to nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Critics' Choice Award, and an Independent Spirit Award. She was named one of <i>Variety</i>'s 10 Comics to Watch for 2020 and will host the 2023 Writers Guild of America Awards.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986236/fill/700x0/image11.png?timestamp=1678212590"></div><p> </p><h2>12. Sherri Shepherd</h2><br><p></p></span><span><p><a href="https://twitter.com/sherrieshepherd" target="_blank">Sherri Shepherd</a> is an American actress, comedian, author, broadcaster, and television personality. She currently hosts the daily syndicated daytime talk show<i> Sherri</i>. She also starred in many sitcoms like <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/12/13/338917/celebrate-entertainer-and-advocate-jamie-foxx-on-his-53rd-birthday" target="_blank">The Jamie Foxx Show</a> and recurring roles on the sitcoms <i>Suddenly Susan </i>and <i>Everybody Loves Raymond</i> in the late 1990s. In 2009, Shepherd won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host alongside her co-hosts from <i>The View.</i></p><p><br></p></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986238/fill/700x0/image13.png?timestamp=1678212842"></div><span><div class="image-main"> <br> <br></div><h2>13. Tumi Morake</h2><br></span><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tumi_morake" target="_blank">Tumi Morake</a> is a South African comedian, actress, TV personality, and writer. Some comedy festivals she has performed at include Heavyweights Comedy Jam, Blacks Only, Have a Heart, Just Because Comedy Festival, The Tshwane Comedy Festival, The Lifestyle SA Festival and Old Mutual Comedy Encounters. She has hosted shows, including<i> Our Perfect Wedding, Red Cake</i> and <i>WTFTumi </i>(her talk show). The Free State native was the first African female comedian to have her own set on Netflix. She is also the first female comedian to host Comedy Central Presents in Africa. </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986239/fill/700x0/image14.png?timestamp=1678214875"></div><p> </p><h2>14. Sommore</h2></span><span><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sommore" target="_blank">Sommore</a> is an American comedian and actress. Known as the “Diva of Contemporary Comedy,” her comedic style features biting sarcasm and frank discussions about money, sex, and equality between the sexes. She appeared in the films <i>Friday After Next, Soul Plane</i>, and <i>Dirty Laundry</i> and has received the Richard Pryor Award for Comic of the Year. Her father was the poet Doughtry “Doc” Long, and her half-sister is actress <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nia_Long" target="_blank">Nia Long</a>. Most of Sommore’s subsequent solo specials also have debuted on Showtime, but this year, her solo special called <i>Queen Chandelier </i>was picked up by Netflix.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/986240/fill/700x0/image15.png?timestamp=1678214928"></div><p> </p><p>Related articles:</p></span><div class="media clearfix">
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<p>Let's see whether this revival can stand on its own or if it can fill the massive shoes that the first show did so quickly. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/08/20/408989/bel-air-review-is-it-better-than-fresh-prince-or-not-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><div><br></div><div><span><p><b>Sources</b></p><ul><li><p><a href="https://briefly.co.za/facts-lifehacks/top/114535-top-20-black-female-comedians-watch-now/">Briefly</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/celebs/a33636438/black-female-comedians/">Cosmopolitan </a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.thetealmango.com/featured/best-black-female-comedians/">The Teal Mango</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.essence.com/feature/7-black-female-comedians-were-loving-right-now/">Essence</a></p></li></ul><div><br><br><br></div></span></div><span><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1678215329"></div><span><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/01/425258/must-see-black-movies-in-2023" target="_blank">Must-See Black Movies in 2023</a></h4>
<p>When it comes to Black films we’re definitely supporting one-hundred percent! <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/01/425258/must-see-black-movies-in-2023">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/03/06/428152/best-black-history-movies-to-watch-during-black-history-month" target="_blank">Best Black History Movies to Watch During Black History Month</a></h4>
<p>While BHM is a great time to brush up on our history and our ongoing journey to overcome, any month in the year is a good time to look at our varying stories, perspectives, and messages c... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/03/06/428152/best-black-history-movies-to-watch-during-black-history-month">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/10/426000/nicole-lynn-becomes-first-black-woman-agent-to-represent-a-player-in-the-super-bowl" target="_blank">Nicole Lynn Becomes First Black Woman Agent To Represent A Player In The Super Bowl</a></h4>
<p>She is representing Jalen Hurts, an American football quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/10/426000/nicole-lynn-becomes-first-black-woman-agent-to-represent-a-player-in-the-super-bowl">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div><br></div></span></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:76654688-d936-4e82-9b3b-ab4b152935e42023-03-06T12:03:24-05:002023-03-20T11:40:30-04:0018 Black History Movies to Watch Even After Black History Month2023-03-06 15:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>Movies about Black culture often focus on well-known historical events like the enslavement of Africans and the civil rights movement. However, there are films that depict Black joy and everyday life and are equally important.</p><p>While <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/04/425647/10-creative-ways-to-celebrate-black-history-month-2023" target="_blank">BHM</a> is a great time to brush up on our history and our ongoing journey to overcome, any month in the year is a good time to look at our varying stories, perspectives, and messages conveyed through art. Some of these films tell the incredible stories of so many Black historical figures. From athletes to musicians to politicians, we've compiled a wide variety of media for your next binge session.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><h2>1. Judas and the Black Messiah</h2><br><p>Director Shaka King brings us a powerful rendition of a true story set in the late-1960s. It stars <i>Get Out</i> actors <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/12/21/421424/black-tv-programs-premiering-in-2023" target="_blank">LaKeith Stanfield</a> and Daniel Kaluuya, who won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for his performance. This historical biopic follows FBI informant William O'Neal infiltrates the Illinois Black Panther Party, with an aim to keep an eye on chairman <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/08/30/365936/the-assassination-of-fred-hampton-and-the-raid-that-changed-chicago" target="_blank">Fred Hampton</a>. But as Hampton's power grows, so does O'Neal's moral quandary in this stunning portrait of the Black Panther movement.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985770/fill/700x0/image3.png?timestamp=1678118069"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>2. Marshall</h2><br><p></p><p>It stars <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/12/30/340152/remembering-the-black-stars-lost-in-2020" target="_blank">Chadwick Boseman</a> as Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice. Marshall is a lawyer primarily working to fight against racial prejudice. He takes on a case to defend Joseph Spell, an African American man accused of raping a wealthy Caucasian woman. At the 90th Academy Awards, it received a nomination for Best Original Song for "Stand Up for Something".</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985771/fill/700x0/image2.png?timestamp=1678120165"></div><p> </p><h2>3. Ghosts of Mississippi</h2><br><p></p><p>Focusing on the 1989 trial of the white supremacist who killed Civil Rights Leader Medgar Evers in his driveway in 1963, Ghosts of Mississippi focuses on Evers’ widow Myrlie, who sought the help of a decorated lawyer with political aspirations to bring her husband’s killer to trial for the third time in 30 years after two previous attempts resulting in hung juries. James Woods was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role of Byron De La Beckwith.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985791/fill/700x0/image5.png?timestamp=1678121048"></div><p> </p><h2>4. One Night In Miami</h2><br><p></p><p>Directed by Regina King, <i>One Night In Miami </i>reimagines the events of February 25, 1964 when <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/14/426087/the-great-boxer-muhammad-ali-and-his-journey-to-fame" target="_blank">Muhammad Ali</a>, still called Cassius Clay then, NFL star Jim Brown, musician Sam Cooke, and Malcolm X spent a night together in a Miami—the same night Clay became the heavyweight champ. In the film, the foursome discuss being Black in America, religion, and their own legacies. It's full of rich conversation, tense moments and even a few laughs. The film is an example of the powerful art that can be created when Black filmmakers are allowed to tell their stories.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985867/fill/700x0/image4.png?timestamp=1678126209"></div><p> </p><h2>5. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom</h2><br></span>Starring <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/08/11/365080/actress-and-producer-viola-davis-celebrates-her-56th-birthday" target="_blank">Viola Davis</a><span> and the late Chadwick Boseman, <i>Ma Rainey's Black Bottom</i><span> chronicles a heated afternoon in the recording studio with legendary "Mother of the Blues" Ma Rainey, her band, and the white management. Over the course of several hours, Ma Rainey uses her talent to test the power dynamic between talent and those who profit off of that talent. Davis and Boseman also won lead acting awards for their performances at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, making history as the first Black actors to win in leading categories in the same year. Both received nominations at the Golden Globes, with Boseman posthumously winning Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama.<br><br><br></span></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985868/fill/700x0/image7.png?timestamp=1678126267"></div><p> </p><span><h2>6. 12 Years a Slave</h2><br><p></p><p>This biographical drama follows the life of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped by conmen in 1841 and sold into slavery. The film stars <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/07/11/362240/chiwetel-ejiofor-renowned-stage-and-film-actor-turns-44" target="_blank">Chiwetel Ejiofor</a>, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Lupita Nyong’o in her first feature film role, for which she won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. The film was awarded the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama, and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts recognized it with the BAFTA Awards for Best Film and Best Actor for Ejiofor. The film was later named the 44th greatest film since 2000 in a BBC poll of 177 critics in 2016.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985869/fill/700x0/image6.png?timestamp=1678126323"></div><p> </p><h2>7. Moonlight</h2><br><p></p><p>A young Black boy living in Miami during the '80s struggles to come to terms with his sexuality Based on the unpublished play, <i>In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue</i>, the film takes viewers on a journey through the main character's childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. In this Academy Award Best Picture winner, Starting in Miami in the 1980s, Chiron navigates daily life as we are confronted with the impacts of drug addiction and poverty. The protagonist's struggle to understand his sexuality and identity highlights the complexities of living as a Black man in America.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985871/fill/700x0/image9.png?timestamp=1678126375"></div><p> </p><h2>8. Malcolm X</h2><br><p></p></span><span><p><a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/05/19/356338/malcolm-x-a-leader-by-all-means-necessary" target="_blank">Malcolm X</a> was an American Muslim minister and human rights activist who was a prominent figure during the civil rights movement. A spokesman for the Nation of Islam until 1964, he was a vocal advocate for Black empowerment and the promotion of Islam within the Black community.. This biographical titan of a film stars Denzel Washington as the eponymous Malcolm X and follows his early years, his conversion to Islam, his rise as a <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/12/13/420884/black-civil-rights-torch-bearers-who-changed-america" target="_blank">Civil Rights leader</a>, and his eventual death by assassination in 1965. In 2010, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985875/fill/700x0/image8.png?timestamp=1678126579"></div><p>Related article:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/05/19/356338/malcolm-x-a-leader-by-all-means-necessary" target="_blank">Malcolm X: A Leader By All Means Necessary</a></h4>
<p>Due to Malcolm X’s work, the words to describe African American people changed to “Black” and “Afro-American” rather than “Negro” and “colored”. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/05/19/356338/malcolm-x-a-leader-by-all-means-necessary">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p> </p><h2>9. Hidden Figures</h2><br></span><span><p>Starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/12/02/377115/what-is-pansexuality-black-celebs-who-have-come-out-as-pansexual" target="_blank">Janelle Monáe</a>, this film follows the true stories of three Black NASA mathematicians—Mary Jackson, <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/02/11/345733/international-day-of-women-and-girls-in-science-katherine-johnson" target="_blank">Katherine Johnson</a>, and Dorothy Vaughan— who played an integral role in the Space Race and were not initially given the credit they deserved. In 2016, NASA dedicated the Langley Research Center's Katherine Johnson Computational Building in her honor. The film was chosen by the National Board of Review as one of the top ten films of 2016 and received various awards and nominations, including three nominations at the 89th Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It also won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985878/fill/700x0/image12.png?timestamp=1678126636"></div><p>Related article:</p></span><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/04/22/353544/international-girls-in-ict-day-5-women-who-paved-the-way" target="_blank">International Girls in ICT Day: 5 Women Who Paved The Way</a></h4>
<p>Technology is a significant portion of today's industries, and the majority of these jobs are dominated by men. Among those men, however, are a number of incredible women who have made hu... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/04/22/353544/international-girls-in-ict-day-5-women-who-paved-the-way">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><p><br></p><h2>10. Selma</h2><br><p></p><p>This movie is a chronicle of <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/01/18/343095/10-things-you-may-not-know-about-dr-martin-luther-king-jr" target="_blank">Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</a>'s campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965. Directed by <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/03/08/349655/celebrate-the-110th-international-women-s-day" target="_blank">Ava DuVernay</a> in 2014, the film was nominated for Best Picture and won Best Original Song at the 87th Academy Awards. It also received four Golden Globe Award nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director and Best Actor, and won for Best Original Song.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985880/fill/700x0/image10.png?timestamp=1678126752"></div><p> </p><h2>11. 42</h2><br><p></p><p>This 2013 sports film stars <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/12/30/340152/remembering-the-black-stars-lost-in-2020" target="_blank">the late Chadwick Boseman</a> as <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/01/425200/jackie-robinsons-role-in-breaking-the-baseball-color-barrier" target="_blank">Jackie Robinson</a>, the first Black athlete to play in the MLB. The title of the film is a reference to Robinson's jersey number, which was universally retired across all MLB teams in 1997. Jackie Robinson's widow, Rachel Robinson, was involved in the production of the film and has praised the end result, saying, "It was important to me because I wanted it to be an authentic piece. I wanted to get it right. I didn't want them to make him an angry black man or some stereotype, so it was important for me to be in there. I love the movie. I'm pleased with it. It's authentic and it's also very powerful."</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985884/fill/700x0/image11.png?timestamp=1678126808"><br><br>Related article:</div></span><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/01/425200/jackie-robinsons-role-in-breaking-the-baseball-color-barrier" target="_blank">Jackie Robinson's Role In Breaking The Baseball Color Barrier</a></h4>
<p>His courage and determination changed the game of baseball forever and inspired generations of athletes after him, breaking the color barrier of Major League Baseball in 1947. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/01/425200/jackie-robinsons-role-in-breaking-the-baseball-color-barrier">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>12. Do the Right Thing</h2><br><p></p><p>One of Spike Lee’s most famous films, <i>Do the Right Thing</i> follows the racial tensions between residents of a Brooklyn neighborhood in the dead heat of summer. Despite the weight of that charge, the film is really a comedy drama and was selected for preservation in the <a href="https://www.loc.gov/programs/national-film-preservation-board/film-registry/" target="_blank">National Film Registry</a> in 1999. Lee wrote the screenplay in two weeks after hearing about the police shooting Eleanor Bumpurs as well as the 1986 "Howard Beach racial incident" where a Black man died.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985886/fill/700x0/image13.png?timestamp=1678126867"></div><p> </p><h2>13. Fruitvale Station</h2><br></span><span><p><a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/02/21/347936/wakandan-is-a-real-language-south-africa-s-isixhosa" target="_blank">Black Panther</a> director Ryan Coogler made his directorial debut <i>Fruitvale Station</i> stars Michael B. Jordan and details the death of Oscar Grant, a young man killed by police in 2009. An indie darling, this film won awards at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and Cannes Film Festival. The film includes actual amateur footage of the shooting, which Coogler initially did not want to use.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985887/fill/700x0/image14.png?timestamp=1678126935"></div><p><br></p><h2> 14. Glory</h2><br></span><span><p>A dramatized look at the true story of the U.S. Civil War’s first all-black volunteer company, as they fight prejudices from both their own Union Army and the Confederates who’d rather see them in chains than as free men. Robert Gould Shaw, played by Matthew Broderick leads the U.S. Civil War's first all-black volunteer company, fighting prejudices from both his own Union Army, and the Confederates. <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/07/27/406356/13-black-legends-who-received-the-presidential-medal-of-freedom" target="_blank">Denzel Washington</a> won his first Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his turn as Private Trip in this historically accurate war epic.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985890/fill/700x0/image15.png?timestamp=1678126976"></div><p> </p><h2>15. Just Mercy</h2><br></span><span><p>This film tells the true story of Walter McMillian and Bryan Stevenson—a young man wrongfully convicted of murder and the defense attorney determined to find justice. McMillian's story of wrongful conviction is one of many. Dozens of Black people across the country are wrongfully imprisoned, and many of them will never be exonerated. By telling one man's personal account, the film addresses a systemic injustice that has disproportionately impacted the lives of generations of Black people. <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/12/13/338917/celebrate-entertainer-and-advocate-jamie-foxx-on-his-53rd-birthday" target="_blank">Jamie Foxx </a>was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role at the 26th Screen Actors Guild Awards. Both he and Michael B. Jordan won NAACP Image Awards for their respective roles.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985891/fill/700x0/image16.png?timestamp=1678127023"></div><p><br></p><h2> 16. Bessie</h2><br></span><span><p>A biopic on the too-short life of the ‘Empress of the Blues,’ Bessie Smith. Expertly played by Queen Latifah, Bessie is a portrait of an immense talent, whose love for music took her from anonymity to international fame in the 1920s blues scene. The film focuses on the life, loves, and lows of a tenacious spirit who, despite her own demons, went on to become one of the most successful and influential musical artists of the 20th century. The film premiered in May 2015. By the following year Bessie was the most watched HBO original film in the network's history. The film was well received critically and garnered four Primetime Emmy Awards, winning for Outstanding Television Movie.</p><div><br></div></span><span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985900/fill/700x0/image17.png?timestamp=1678127169"></div><p> </p><h2>17. The Butler</h2><br><p></p><p><i>The Butler</i><i> </i>is a 2013 American historical drama film directed and co-produced by Lee Daniels and with a screenplay by Danny Strong. It is inspired by Wil Haygood's <i>Washington Post </i>article "A Butler Well Served by This Election". This historical drama spans decades of American history, following the life and memory of Cecil Gaines, a Black butler in the White House played in this movie by <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/07/15/362574/forest-whitaker-celebrates-his-60th-birthday" target="_blank">Forest Whitaker</a>. In the film, Gaines witnesses some of the most influential political and social events of the 20th century.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985901/fill/700x0/image18.png?timestamp=1678127217"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><h2>18. BlacKKKlansman<br><br></h2><p></p><p><span><i>BlacKkKlansman</i> is a 2018 American biographical black comedy crime thriller film directed by Spike Lee. It is based on the true story of Black Colorado police officer Ron Stallworth, who manages to infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan and thwart their attempts at terror attack all via phone. It received six nominations at the 91st Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director (Lee's first directing nomination), and Best Supporting Actor for Driver, and won for Best Adapted Screenplay, making it Lee's first competitive Academy Award. At the 76th Golden Globe Awards it earned four nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Drama.</span></p></span><div><br></div><span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/985902/fill/700x0/image19.png?timestamp=1678127282"></div><p> </p><p><b>Source</b></p><p><a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/g35349723/black-history-movies/">Good Housekeeping</a></p><p><a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/g32733628/black-history-movies/">Women’s Health</a></p><p><a href="https://www.essence.com/holidays/black-history-month/28-movies-for-black-history-month/#1145128">Essence</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/movies/a42687108/black-history-movies/">Cosmopolitan</a></p><p><br></p><p>Related articles:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<p>On July 7, President Joe Biden awarded the presidential Medal of Freedom to 17 Americans. In light of this prestigious event, here’s a look at some of the wonderful and deserving Black l... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/07/27/406356/13-black-legends-who-received-the-presidential-medal-of-freedom">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1678130554"></div><span><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Boitumelo Masihleho:</p><p><br></p><div class="media clearfix">
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<p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:1a013fa1-1356-4f43-9432-f1f697f2cc732023-02-28T09:59:59-05:002023-03-03T12:58:12-05:00Nigeria elections: the surprising influence of Afrobeats music on politics2023-03-04 10:00:00 -0500The Conversation, via Reuters Connect<span><p>In the run-up to Nigeria’s February 2023 elections, the country’s younger generation has mobilised to demand change and redefine the political landscape – and music has been pivotal.<br></p><br><p>Despite being dismissed by several political commentators, Nigeria’s younger generations have shifted the former two-party liberal electoral democratic competition between the ruling <a href="https://apc.com.ng/" target="_blank">All Progressive Congress (APC) </a>and the prominent <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialPDPNig?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank" title="Link: https://twitter.com/OfficialPDPNig?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor">People’s Democratic Party (PDP)</a>. This is due to their overwhelming support for Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi.</p><p> </p><p>The use of music in campaigning for these elections shows the influence of this generation. Political candidates now routinely release videos showing them dancing to <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/03/14/393009/black-music-the-rise-of-afrobeats-and-afro-pop" target="_blank" title="Link: https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/03/14/393009/black-music-the-rise-of-afrobeats-and-afro-pop">Afrobeats</a> music.</p><br><p>The Afrobeats genre encompasses contemporary music styles from Nigeria (and Ghana) with a distinct use of Nigerian languages and percussive beats.</p><br><p>APC candidate Bola Tinubu’s song of choice was <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLF90M96m2Q" target="_blank"><i>Buga</i> by Kizz Daniel and Tekno</a>, with its accompanying choreography and references to hard work.</p><br><p>PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar revealed his five-step recovery plan with a choreographed video to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyR6Sd2-afI" target="_blank">Davido’s <i>Stand Strong</i></a>, which references devotion and consistency. It’s his sixth time standing for president.</p><br><p>Though some politicians are criticised when their enthusiasm on the dance floor contrasts with their performance, this pattern of dance as diplomacy shows new ways they are making connections with the electorate.</p><br><p>Afrobeats’s popularity is a story of African creative and economic production, intended for African creative and economic consumption. The genre’s focus on authenticity has resonated with Nigerian, African and global markets.</p><br><p>The success of Afrobeats, alongside the wider creative economy, saw Nigeria become Africa’s <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/12/20/421387/has-nigeria-become-a-leading-cocoa-and-palm-oil-producer-" target="_blank">largest economy</a> in 2014. In their 2022 trade report, the <a href="https://www.afreximbank.com/" target="_blank">AfriExim Bank</a> discussed the music industry’s wider success in Africa, particularly through its use of <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/01/17/423841/how-fintech-is-changing-the-financial-system-in-africa" target="_blank">digital technology</a>. The report also highlighted music’s power to create and disseminate knowledge in ways that address the damage done by colonial systems and structures.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984501/fill/700x0/afrobeats_20artists.png?timestamp=1677609586" title="Image: //cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984501/fill/700x0/afrobeats_20artists.png?timestamp=1677609586"></div><p> <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/03/14/393009/black-music-the-rise-of-afrobeats-and-afro-pop" target="_blank">Black Music : The Rise of Afrobeats and Afro-Pop</a>. Artists CKay, Fireboy DML, Burnaboy, Davido, and Wizkid.</p><br><p>Afrobeats shows how African creative endeavours can succeed by centring African people in their choice of language, themes and imagery. It shows what can be possible when African needs are prioritised. Questions remain, however, about the extent to which the benefits are retained within African economies.</p><br><p>Afrobeats music creates solidarity among people of African descent through a sense of a shared global African identity. This success has been underpinned by music and video production collaborations across global African communities.</p><br><p>The ingenuity in Afrobeats is astounding. Poetic lyrics draw on the wealth of <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/19/426337/nollywood-how-this-nigerian-film-industry-is-changing-the-world" target="_blank">Nigeria</a>’s languages (including pidgin English) to challenge issues such as socioeconomic exploitation (as in Tekno’s 2020 track, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSbpkA5T4Cs" target="_blank">Sudden</a>) and sexual abuse (as in Tiwa Savage and Asake’s 2023 track, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgeTnpTkzI0" target="_blank">Loaded</a>). The music blends contemporary sounds and Nigerian instruments, such as the Oja flute (as in Omah Lay’s 2022 track, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6eE3c70hgg" target="_blank">Soso</a>).</p><br><p>Afrobeats offers an opportunity to tune in to visions of hope from younger generations. The genre’s stars often reference the recognisable aesthetics of the period following <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/09/30/369855/legendary-writer-wole-soyinka-releases-new-novel-on-the-eve-of-nigeria-s-60th-independence" target="_blank">Nigeria’s independence</a>, between the 1960s and 1970s. In doing so, they are connecting their music to a period of transition and liberation after colonisation.</p><br><p>Consider Wizkid and Tem’s platinum single, <i>Essence </i>(2022), with the box TV, standing and ceiling fans and stone wall. Rema’s<i> Calm Down</i> (2022) also echoes this aesthetic with its wooden framed sofa and beaded curtains.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982001/fill/700x0/tems.png?timestamp=1677609714" title="Image: //cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982001/fill/700x0/tems.png?timestamp=1677609714"></div></span><span><p><a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/17/426396/nigerian-music-industry-and-its-rapid-rise-on-the-global-stage" target="_blank" title="Link: https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/17/426396/nigerian-music-industry-and-its-rapid-rise-on-the-global-stage"> Nigerian Music Industry and Its Rapid Rise on The Global Stage</a>. Tems</p><p><br></p><br><p>In her <a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/08/31/906718431/tiwa-savage-tiny-desk-home-concert" target="_blank">2021 NPR Tiny Desk performance</a>, Tiwa Savage is at the Jazzhole in Ikoyi, Lagos, surrounded by books and LPs. Her 2020 video for 49-99 samples the “father of Afrobeat” musician <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/05/13/356234/fela-kuti" target="_blank">Fela Kuti</a>.</p><br><p>In the Nigerian diaspora, British rapper <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/01/16/424022/8-black-uk-rappers-to-listen-to-right-now" target="_blank" title="Link: https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/01/16/424022/8-black-uk-rappers-to-listen-to-right-now">Little Simz</a> and Obongjayar’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvY31eN3gtE" target="_blank">video for Point and Kill (2022)</a> features a terracotta bordered veranda, vintage film posters, afros, moustaches and sideburns, woven mats and references to Fela Kuti’s sound.</p><br><p>What are these images calling for? There is joy and beauty in their fluidity. In its innovation, Afrobeats still calls back to the past. Post-independence times were complex and contradictory but offered different ways to change than the despondence that has tended to define Nigeria and wider Africa since.</p><br><p>These included pan African visions of blackness and challenging imperial powers to support the anti-apartheid struggle.</p><br><p>Tiwa Savage and Naira Marley exemplify how the younger generation intends to hold truth to power in their 2021 anti-political class anthem, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7rcfEboa7g" target="_blank">Ole</a>. The song satirises the botched 2021 National Assembly investigation into allegations of misappropriation in the Niger Delta Development Commission and suggestions of complicity by members of the National Assembly.</p><br><p>With their ingenuity and agency, innovators like these have picked through the rubble that has been allowed to define Nigeria and found abundance. I doubt they will let it go.</p><br><p>As politicians attempt to connect with the largest constituency in the largest black country on earth, they would do well to recognise that dancing will not quite suffice. Whoever wins the 2023 elections takes these voices for granted at their own risk.</p><br><br>Related:</span><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/01/16/424022/8-black-uk-rappers-to-listen-to-right-now" target="_blank"><img alt="8 Black UK Rappers to Listen to Right Now" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/976573/fit/80x80/image4.png?timestamp=1677608428" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/01/16/424022/8-black-uk-rappers-to-listen-to-right-now" target="_blank" title="Link: /2023/01/16/424022/8-black-uk-rappers-to-listen-to-right-now">8 Black UK Rappers to Listen to Right Now</a></h4>
<p>These 8 Black UK rappers are among some of the best artists to top the UK Charts and most of them have had major breakthroughs in their music careers. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/01/16/424022/8-black-uk-rappers-to-listen-to-right-now">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/09/23/369016/artists-from-africa-and-the-diaspora-to-add-to-your-playlist" target="_blank"><img alt="Image by Andrea Piacquadio via Pexel " src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/854356/fit/80x80/pexels-andrea-piacquadio-813940.jpeg?timestamp=1677609800" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/09/23/369016/artists-from-africa-and-the-diaspora-to-add-to-your-playlist" target="_blank" title="Link: /2021/09/23/369016/artists-from-africa-and-the-diaspora-to-add-to-your-playlist">Artists from Africa and the Diaspora to Add to Your Playlist </a></h4>
<p>Who doesn’t love a good music selection? Here are some artists from Africa and the Diaspora to add to your playlist, and songs to add to your playlist or to listen to as you go about your... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/09/23/369016/artists-from-africa-and-the-diaspora-to-add-to-your-playlist">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/09/20/412112/trendy-songs-by-african-artists-in-the-diaspora" target="_blank"><img alt="Trendy Songs by African Artists in the Diaspora" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/950556/fit/80x80/pexels-tima-miroshnichenko-6614801.jpg?timestamp=1677609812" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/09/20/412112/trendy-songs-by-african-artists-in-the-diaspora" target="_blank" title="Link: /2022/09/20/412112/trendy-songs-by-african-artists-in-the-diaspora">Trendy Songs by African Artists in the Diaspora</a></h4>
<p>People listen to music to relax, be amused, informed, and so on. In summary, music fulfills several functions in daily life. This is why we may say that music is a part of life. To put it... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/09/20/412112/trendy-songs-by-african-artists-in-the-diaspora">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians" target="_blank" title="Link: /2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians"><img alt="All-Time African Most Influential Musicians " src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/979521/fit/80x80/image8.jpg?timestamp=1677610701" class="media-object" title="Image: //cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/979521/fit/80x80/image8.jpg?timestamp=1677610701"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians" target="_blank">All-Time African Most Influential Musicians </a></h4>
<p>African music has been an integral part of the culture for centuries, and many great musicians have emerged from the continent. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:399f6fe9-a17b-425e-b531-e0174aafc9bb2023-03-01T12:33:14-05:002023-03-03T12:57:13-05:005 Black Podcasts to Listen To2023-03-03 10:00:00 -0500Kyrah Page<span><p>I had little knowledge of podcasts growing up. Who wants to hear someone talk for hours on end? I found them to be dull. My opinion of podcasts, however, shifted as I grew older. I learned to enjoy and respect the craft of podcasts as my college schedule got busier, and I was exposed to more. Podcasts are a way to hear other perspectives, stay caught up on current events, or laugh.</p><br></span><span><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/small-doses-with-amanda-seales/id1333316223?app=itunes&cId=none&ign-itscg=30440&ign-itsct=catchall_p1&lId=26530765&mt=2&sr=1&src=Linkfire" target="_blank">“Small Doses”</a>, a podcast by Amada Seals, was the first I ever listened to. I frequently turned in to her podcast since it was so humorous and realistic. I’m unsure if it was the subjects she covered or how engaging she made what she said sound, but I found myself interested and engaged. I believe that more individuals are starting podcasts today and becoming more pertinent. With that said, I’ve listed a few podcasts below that are run by Black people that I’ve either been recommended or have personally listened to!</p><br></span><h2><a href="https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510312/codeswitch" target="_blank">1. Code Switch</a></h2><br><div class="image-main"><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984796/fill/700x0/code_20switch.png?timestamp=1677685542"></div><p> </p></div><p> This NPR podcast explores race, ethnicity, and cultural issues and how they intersect with various aspects of American life.</p><h2><br><a href="https://gimletmedia.com/shows/the-nod" target="_blank">2. The Nod</a><br></h2><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984806/fill/700x0/the_20nod.jpg?timestamp=1677686912"></div><p> </p><p>This podcast, hosted by Brittany Luse and Eric Eddings, explores Black culture, history, and identity, often through personal anecdotes and humor.</p><p><br></p><span><h2><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/column/still-processing-podcast" target="_blank">3. Still Processing</a><br></h2><br><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984807/fill/700x0/still_20processing.png?timestamp=1677687200"></div><p> </p><p>This <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/" target="_blank"><i>New York Times</i></a> podcast, which Jenna Wortham and Wesley Morris host, examines pop culture, politics, and social issues from a Black perspective.</p><p><br></p><h2><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-girl-podcast/id1184104197" target="_blank">4. Black Girl Podcast</a><br></h2><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984855/fill/700x0/bgp.jpeg?timestamp=1677693002"></div><p> </p><span><p>This podcast features a group of Black women discussing everything from pop culture to race and politics, often through a feminist lens.</p><br><h2><a href="http://www.thestoop.org/" target="_blank">5. The Stoop</a><br></h2><br><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984856/fill/700x0/the_20stoop.png?timestamp=1677693151"></div><p> </p><p><br></p><p>Hosted by journalists Hana Baba and Leila Day, this podcast explores stories from the Black diaspora, often through personal anecdotes and interviews.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/07/16/406036/popular-black-entrepreneur-podcasts-to-listen-to-in-2022" target="_blank"><img alt="Popular Black Entrepreneur Podcasts to listen to in 2022" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/936431/fit/80x80/pexels-ketut-subiyanto-4559517.jpg?timestamp=1677693394" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/07/16/406036/popular-black-entrepreneur-podcasts-to-listen-to-in-2022" target="_blank">Popular Black Entrepreneur Podcasts to listen to in 2022</a></h4>
<p>We've compiled a thorough list of the most popular Black Entrepreneur podcasts. Look no further if you want to fire podcasts for Black companies - we've got you covered. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/07/16/406036/popular-black-entrepreneur-podcasts-to-listen-to-in-2022">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2021/10/28/372744/8-black-owned-true-crime-podcasts-youtube-channels-to-listen-to-this-halloween" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/863348/fit/80x80/crime_20scene_20tape.png?timestamp=1677693400" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2021/10/28/372744/8-black-owned-true-crime-podcasts-youtube-channels-to-listen-to-this-halloween" target="_blank">8 Black-Owned True Crime Podcasts & YouTube Channels to Listen to this Halloween</a></h4>
<p>We’ve rounded up some of the best Black-owned podcasts and YouTube channels that focuses on chilling true crime cases from murders to abductions to unsolved, cold cases. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2021/10/28/372744/8-black-owned-true-crime-podcasts-youtube-channels-to-listen-to-this-halloween">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2020/12/29/340060/6-black-girl-podcasts-to-listen-to-before-the-end-of-the-year" target="_blank"><img alt="6 Black Girl Podcasts to Listen to Before the End of the Year" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/798590/fit/80x80/podcast_201.png?timestamp=1677693401" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2020/12/29/340060/6-black-girl-podcasts-to-listen-to-before-the-end-of-the-year" target="_blank">6 Black Girl Podcasts to Listen to Before the End of the Year</a></h4>
<p>The COVID-19 pandemic raised more awareness of the importance of mental health as many countries went into lockdown and people stayed in their homes. Listening to podcasts is a great form... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2020/12/29/340060/6-black-girl-podcasts-to-listen-to-before-the-end-of-the-year">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2020/06/09/322471/soothe-your-spirit-podcasts-of-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank"><img alt="Soothe Your Spirit Podcasts of the African Diaspora" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/745911/fit/80x80/portrait-photo-of-smiling-woman-in-black-top-and-glasses-3765147.jpg?timestamp=1677693401" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2020/06/09/322471/soothe-your-spirit-podcasts-of-the-african-diaspora" target="_blank">Soothe Your Spirit: Podcasts of the African Diaspora</a></h4>
<p>By Nana Ama AddoCOVID-19’s impact on mental health continues to be a pressing issue. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 48% ... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2020/06/09/322471/soothe-your-spirit-podcasts-of-the-african-diaspora">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/936444/fill/300x0/image9.jpg?timestamp=1677693326"></div><p> Kyrah Page is currently a student at Lincoln University. She is also the CEO and founder of her own brand called “Keepin’ It Kultured.” Where she combines art with activism to empower, inspire and educate the Black community. She advocates for change, promotes black positivity, and addresses controversial issues. Kyrah is many things but most importantly she is an activist.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Kyrah Page:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/01/09/423625/halle-bailey-plays-lead-in-disney-s-the-little-mermaid-" target="_blank"><img alt="Halle Bailey Plays Lead in Disneys " src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/975409/fit/80x80/image1.png?timestamp=1677693340" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/01/09/423625/halle-bailey-plays-lead-in-disney-s-the-little-mermaid-" target="_blank">Halle Bailey Plays Lead in Disney’s, "The Little Mermaid"</a></h4>
<p>Most of us dreamed of being princesses as young girls. However, as young Black girls, we were unable to identify any princesses who resembled us. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/01/09/423625/halle-bailey-plays-lead-in-disney-s-the-little-mermaid-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/07/03/404596/mental-health-issues-are-a-symptom-of-being-black" target="_blank">Mental Health Issues are a Symptom of Being Black</a></h4>
<p>When someone says, “Black Lives Matter!,” you always have that one white person that rebuttals with “well, all lives matter!” <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/07/03/404596/mental-health-issues-are-a-symptom-of-being-black">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/24/426767/black-history-reimagined-" target="_blank"><img alt="Black History Reimagined" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982956/fit/80x80/black_20history_20month.jpg?timestamp=1677693373" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/24/426767/black-history-reimagined-" target="_blank">Black History Reimagined!</a></h4>
<p>To truly celebrate Black history, we must reimagine it. We must expand our understanding of Black history beyond a few select figures and events and embrace the full diversity of Black ex... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/24/426767/black-history-reimagined-">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><br><br></span></div></span><div><br></div><div><br></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:68c97886-4ec8-4128-bb7f-29a2fe828e702023-02-27T14:52:01-05:002023-02-28T10:00:05-05:00The Reading Quilt: A Breed Apart2023-03-01 10:00:00 -0500Dr Rachel Slaughter<span><p>Now that Black History Month (BHM) has passed let’s reflect: In February, we take the time to honor the lives of extraordinary Black Americans, their culture, and their turbulent history. Often in February, especially in schools, people are laser-focused on a handful of late Black Americans: <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/01/15/387385/martin-luther-king-day-lessons-from-mlk-on-economic-justice-and-a-toolkit-for-upward-economic-mobility" target="_blank">Martin Luther King</a>, <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/02/04/345058/10-things-you-may-not-know-about-rosa-parks" target="_blank">Rosa Parks</a>, Frederick Douglass, and <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/03/18/393196/how-philadelphia-is-honoring-the-legacy-of-harriet-tubman" target="_blank">Harriet Tubman</a>. <br></p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/04/425647/10-creative-ways-to-celebrate-black-history-month-2023" target="_blank">BHM celebrations</a> and recognitions are well regarded and necessary, but they must be improved? Does BHM month miss the daily and extraordinary accomplishments of Black Americans who can serve as living and emotional testimonies of everyday American life? </p><br><p>Perhaps we can take just one moment in Women’s History Month to give the nod to a man whose childhood started in a privileged family in the suburbs of Chicago but continued in a life of crime which landed him in jail. After his release, he vowed to travel to the United States to help young impressionable minds avoid the pitfalls of crime.</p><br><p>Victor Woods, motivational speaker and author of <i>A Breed Apart (</i>Atria, 2015), is a model of redemption from crime and victory in rebuilding a better life. In an effort to help other young people avoid lives of crime, Woods has taken the message of his memoir to the streets.</p><br></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/798581/fill/300x0/Quiltcover-1-791x1024.png?timestamp=1677526360"></div><span><p> Each month “The Reading Quilt” provides a short review of a book that a teacher may use to spark conversations about culture and race. This month features an interview with Victor Woods, author of a memoir that encourages young people to resist criminal behavior, embrace their inner greatness, and give back to others.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><br><p>In the following Q/A, Woods details his poignant experiences that are captured in his book “A Breed Apart” published by Simon and Schuster in 2015. The book has since caught the eyes of the executives at <a href="https://www.hartbeat.com/" target="_blank">Hartbeat</a>, Kevin Hart’s entertainment production company.</p><br><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984078/fill/700x0/a-breed-apart-9780743477390_hr.jpeg?timestamp=1677526546"></div><p> Cover of <i>A Breed Apart</i>, Victor Woods</p><span><br><p><b>Q - Your autobiography is well constructed. Was it difficult for you to compose this book as a new writer? </b></p><br><p>A- When I first completed the manuscript, it was 900 pages that I scaled down to 578 pages and self-published it.</p><br><p><b>Q- What happened when you caught the eyes of Simon and Schuster Publishers? </b></p><br><p>A- Simon and Schuster came in (after I received a ton of rejection letters from other publishing companies) and scaled my manuscript down by half. There is so much more to my story than what is included in the book. </p><br><p><b>Q- The book is so well written that it seems like you took writing courses. Is that the case? </b></p><br><p>A- I wrote the book by hand and saved all of my handwritten pages in case someone suggests that I had a ghostwriter or a helper, I could show my handwritten stack of papers to show that I did everything myself. I wrote every word. I got no help.</p><br><p><b>Q- You are a knowledgeable man who grew up in the suburbs with great parents as role models. I Googled you and found this short description: “Born to an affluent Chicago family -- the son of a Fortune 500 executive and a dedicated schoolteacher -- Woods attended all the best schools and was never in want of anything. He lived safely in the bosom of a loving home. But like so many African Americans who came of age in post-segregation America, newly entitled to the benefits of racial integration, Woods felt alienated and enraged.” So, how did you get mixed up in crime?</b></p><br><p>A- When you consider my background, it is unusual that I would choose a life of crime. It was this idea that riveted Bryan Smiley, President & Chief Content Officer of “Hartbeat Productions,” to my story. Bryan said to me, “Most of the time when people get involved in crime, they were born into it. Or the story is that they are a product of the inner city and this or that happened to them. That is the typical story.” </p><br><p><b>Q- So you are atypical. </b></p><br><p>A- Yes, I had a mother who went to Spelman, a father who went to Morehouse. My mother has her master’s degree. My grandfather went to Moody Bible Institute and earned his Ph.D. My aunt was a sitting judge, and her husband is a doctor.</p><br><p><b>Q- Yes, the pedigree is evident. Your background is solid. So why crime?</b></p><br><p>A- The short answer is that I was a kid, and I ran away from home because I didn’t want to listen and I didn’t want to be out in the suburbs as the only Black kid.</p><br><p><b>Q- Safe home in the burbs, loving parents, money. Victor, you have described the American dream. Why would you snub your nose at it?</b></p><br><p>A- You have to remember, I grew up in the ’70s. When you are a kid, and you walk into a school and have a thousand kids calling you the N word, you might not want to be there. Basically, I wanted to relocate and do something different.</p><br><p><b>Q- Where did you want to go? What were your plans?</b></p><br><p>A- I wanted to go to Detroit, where my grandmother lived, but my parents were against it. They said, ‘You’re not going there with your mess and cause her a mental breakdown.’</p><br><p><b>Q- Were your parents right?</b></p><br><p>A- No, because me and my grandmother never had a problem. She was my heart. Nonetheless, I ran away from home. I didn’t listen when my parents told me to get my butt back in the house. I just kept walking off into the darkness.</p><br><p><b>Q- Wow, you were brave and quite stubborn. What happened when you left?</b></p><br><p>A- Once I was away from the confines of my home, I got hungry. Honestly, sometimes you take for granted that there will be food and juice in the refrigerator, toilet paper, a roof over your head, and a bed. But when you walk out of your house and you do not have anywhere to go, stealing starts as a necessity. I was shoplifting for food and sleeping in various friends’ closets. After their parents went to sleep, they would sneak me into the house.</p><br><p><b>Q- That is a tough existence. How long did you live that way?</b></p><br><p>A- Eventually, I got my own apartment with a guy who played junior college football, and he had extra room.</p><br><p><b>Q- How old were you when hanging out with the college student?</b></p><br><p>A- I was fifteen years old, in the apartment, and I am stealing bicycles cause I don’t have a job and I am trying desperately to make extra money. But, I had a creative mind to begin with, so they say the idle mind is the devil’s workshop. So, like a lot of kids who you see in inner city schools, if you don’t find that niche for their creativity…painting, drawing, building something, or chess, you will lose them. </p><br><p><b>Q- So your creative mind was idle, and what happened?</b></p><br><p>A- When you are like me, creative and intelligent, and not knowing where to use that creativity, I just expanded whatever I could…and that was crime. For example, when I did my first armed robbery, I got something like $5,000. In 1980’s, $5,000 was like $20,000 in today’s money. That is a lot of money for a 15 year old black kid in the suburbs. </p><br><p><b>Q- In some ways, you needed the money because you ditched your comfortable home to live on the streets. However, essentially, crime excited your creativity back then.</b></p><br><p>A- Yes, and after that, I wanted to continue to get that easy money. I shouldn’t say, ‘easy money’ because it wasn’t easy, but it was the life I chose.</p><br><p><b>Q- Do you now realize that the effort you put into crime and the mental fatigue that came with it is the same mental effort you could have used for a positive and fruitful life, or a life on the straight and narrow?</b></p><br><p>A- Yes, no question about it. You are right to say that if we catch young people early, we can show them how to use their creativity for positivity. For example, if you are selling drugs, you have to market and distribute the drugs. Listen, Jay-Z got this right. He put out what he called “The Blueprint.” The album detailed how he once sold drugs, transformed it, and moved it into a different direction. Fifty Cent did it. He was a drug dealer admittedly and took that same entrepreneurship, hustle, and fortitude and placed it in another direction. I am definitely not the only one who has done this. </p><br><p><b>Q- The difference between you and the rappers you mention is that not one that you mentioned came from a solid upbringing. Those guys came from poverty and single-parent homes. You grew up in a two-parent, economically safe suburban home. Did any part of you recognise that your life choices were embarrassing to your family’s reputation? In other words, did you choose the life of crime to snub your nose at your family’s legacy and get a rise out of your parents?</b></p><br><br><p>A- To be honest, mine is an unusual story because, actually, I am a retired gangster. My crimes were big and on the front pages of newspapers. I was on American Gangster with Larry Hoover. I was locked up with mafia hitmen. I moved up to do big things (in crime) and I was good at crime. Actually, I never thought about the consequences of my actions. But it was never about embarrassing my parents. This was never about embarrassing my parents. I enjoyed what I was doing. I would case a place for months before I robbed the place. This was about getting away with something and using my brain (to get money). I was a leader. I was never a follower. When you look at the crimes that I committed, you can see that all of my abilities meant that I was bent on showing people that not only am I smart, I am smarter than them. One thing that is important to note is that I was attending Northwestern, in my twenties, while selling drugs and I never got caught. Someone who I knew (who was associated with Northwestern) suggested I go to Northwestern even though school didn’t mean anything to me. But, my friend told me that if I pass the entrance exam, Northwestern will let me in. I passed and I got in.</p><br><p><b>Q- So, at one point, you were a college kid living a life of crime.</b></p><br><p>A- Yes, I enjoyed the life of crime. I wasn’t killing anybody. Crime was interesting to me: To do an armed robbery, come back to a hotel room and the police are arriving at the scene, and I am sitting in a hotel room with a bag full of money. Yes, that life was interesting to me: to spend $100,000 a day with those stolen credit cards, and have the secret service chasing me.</p><br><p><b>Q- Wow! You spent $100,000 a day!</b></p><br><p>A- Yes, I was a big time criminal and (when I was investigated by the Federal Government) I refused to cooperate with the Feds. I was offered five years probation and I told (the Feds) that I would rather die in prison than to tell on my family and friends. I knew that I had committed the crimes. I knew that I needed to take responsibility for the crimes. And I did. I saved fourteen people’s lives from going to prison. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/984083/fill/700x0/victor_20woods.png?timestamp=1677527006"></div><p> Victor Woods, Source: <a href="http://victorwoods.com" target="_blank">Official Website</a></p></span><span><br><p><b>Q- So you went above and beyond a life of petty crime. Your life was centered upon a credit card scam worth more than forty million dollars. </b></p><br><p>A- I was trying to show my parents “I don’t need you.” My parents were hell-bent on doing my life their way or I needed to hit the highway. In choosing a life of crime, I was saying “I am going to live my life my way, like Frank Sinatra says in the song. I am not going to listen to you. I am going to show you that I can make it without you, and I don’t care if I have to rob, steal, or put a gun to someone’s head to do it.” I began to love a life of crime. </p><br><br><br><p><b>Q- How did you even know how to break into a life of crime? Who were your role models?</b></p><br><p>A- My heroes were <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucky_Luciano" target="_blank">Lucky Luciano</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugsy_Siegel" target="_blank">Bugsy Siegel</a>. So when the other kids were reading about Abe Lincoln and George Washington, I was reading about Lucky Luciano, a man in the mafia. And, if you look at my crimes, they were connected and formulated that way (mafia mentality). </p><p>So, I knew what I was doing. My motivation was buying nice clothes and living a luxurious lifestyle. You have to remember, I was 16 years old wearing a tie, slacks, driving an expensive sports car to school and spending thousands of dollars at the mall on clothes. I was a lot more sophisticated than most young people. But, embarrassing my parents was never on my mind. </p><br><p><b>Q- Do you think you were a genius who happened to choose a life of crime?</b></p><br><p>A- I don’t want to come off as self-glorifying but there is no question (that I was a genius). There are geniuses who do some things well, and geniuses who do everything well. A judge once told me that my ability to lead people is amazing. Judge James F. Holderman (Ret) said, “Victor, your ability to be persuasive and influence people is frightening when it is turned toward criminal ends.” I am a genius at getting people to do things that I want them to do.</p><br><p><b>Q- Yes, there is a magnetism about you.</b></p><br><p>A- <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zig_Ziglar" target="_blank">Zig Ziglar</a>, author and public speaker, once said “A good speaker can get 75-85% of his audience locked in. If you look at my audience, whether I am talking to White or Black people at schools, churches, or businesses, 99% of the people are riveted to me. A prisoner once heard me give a speech in prison and said “Victor was spellbinding when he spoke.” I took a communication class at Northwestern, but I have the natural ability to speak and influence people. </p><br><p><b>Q- What point are you making with your book?</b></p><br><p>A- What I want people to understand isn’t that I did crime and went to prison, was released, and now I am telling my story. No, I want people to understand that they can LEARN from my story. </p><p>I am published by Simon and Schuster, a major publishing company. I am published by the same company as John F. Kennedy, Steve Jobs, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton, and the list goes on and on. Now you can add Victor Woods to the list. I am a part of a major publishing company and conquering Hollywood. I am in a class by myself. </p><br><p><b>Q- Your accomplishments attest to your high intelligence.</b></p><br><br><p>A- Yes, you would have to possess a high level of intelligence to have done the crimes that I committed. You have people coming out of Yale and Berkeley who are never going to get published and receive an offer for a movie deal like I did. Most people do not have the God-given ability that I have. And I say that with sincere humility because without God, none of this would be possible. </p><br><br><p><b>Q- In some ways, you are saying you are a success in your own right. You didn’t follow the traditional path your parents had in mind, instead, you forged your own road.</b></p><br><p>A- If I had traveled the pathway that my parents had laid out for me, there would have been nothing wrong with that. I would have graduated from Morehouse College like my father and worked for General Mills, a corporate job, like him. I would have engaged in Jack and Jill of America and come together with the Black elite. But, that is not what God had in store for me. My grandmother always said, “Victor, you are destined to minister to the people.” So God gave me a very strong story to tell to all races and cultures to help change people’s lives. I want people to think if God can change someone like Victor Woods and mold him into a person who can help do God’s work, God is good. I am doing God’s work, and doors are flying open for me. That is why <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_Young" target="_blank">Andrew Young</a> did the foreword for my book.</p><br><p><b>Q- A foreword from Andrew Young is a huge accomplishment.</b></p><br><p>A- But, there are young people who do not even know who Mr. Young is. Yet they are inspired by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Hoover" target="_blank">Larry Hoover</a> because they are trying to model the criminal behavior they hear in rap songs. But these young people don’t even know Larry Hoover’s legacy because he has been locked up for over 50 years. </p><br><p><b>Q- Victor, tell me about your redemption. How did you turn your life around?</b></p><br><p>A- I am grateful that God allowed me to get out of prison. Had I gone to Morehouse, and done what my parents wanted, would I have gone to all the prisons or detention centers I went to and influenced people? Would I have gone to all the churches and done the kind of work that I do all over the United States. No, I would not. Yes, I started at the top (when you consider the money I made via crime). But God brought me all the way down to cleaning toilets and took all the glitz and extravagance away from me so I may know how other people feel. I recognized that, because of my privilege and upbringing, that it was incumbent upon me to give back.</p><br><p><b>Q- So you know that your privilege has purpose.</b></p><br><p>A- You can look at my life now and see that God protected and moved me through a life of crime. He spoke to me and when He wasn’t speaking, He put other people in my life to speak to me and lead me to where I am. I have been out of prison for twenty five years and look at what I am doing. Praise God!</p><br><p><b>Q- When you think back on your experiences in jail and the poor treatment you received, how did you maintain humility, faith in God, and a sense of purpose?</b></p><br><p>A- My grandmother instilled that sense of purpose in me. I pray on my knees. I prayed throughout prison. My grandmother always told me, “Victor, you can make it.” My humility comes from the fact I know there is a God who sits up high and looks down low.</p><br><p><b>Q- Despite the despair you faced, you seem to be upbeat with a light inside of you. You have proven that you never give up. Your book illustrates that you persevered even behind bars. Why is that?</b></p><br><p>A- I made sure to take care of myself in prison. I said to myself “Victor, you should work out two times a day. Eat the right foods and not take any prison alcohol. Do not engage in any conduct that would cause me to not be the best version of myself when I leave prison.” </p><br><p><b>Q- How did you eliminate the anger you talk about in your book?</b></p><br><p>A- Honestly, I had a chip on my shoulder because I was mad at people who had done me wrong. I wanted to show people up. My grandmother used to say, “the proof is in the pudding. Don’t talk about it, do it.” That was arduous advice to follow. For example, it took me five years to get a paid speaking engagement. I have been homeless as a speaker. But I refused to give up. I kept going and going and going. I had the belief of things unseen. There is a higher power, and it is in me. Every day I find a reason to thank God for my existence.</p><br><p><b>Q- Do you also thank your parents? </b></p><br><p>A- Yes, I love my parents. My father and mother taught me a lot. I would be remiss to sit here and act like their kindness didn’t rub off on me. It definitely did. But I put my experiences up against anybody. On the other hand, I am old enough to understand the tremendous embarrassment that I caused my parents, who lived in an all-white neighborhood and have a son who went, with a replica machine gun, and robbed the grocery store. My parents have still not come to grips with my past. They are angry. They prefer that I had not written a book about my past or been on television. But I have to do what I am doing because it is what God wants. But my parents were good people. Very nice. I have apologized to them, and they know that I love them, although we do not agree. I say to myself, “Look at the Black boy who didn’t graduate from high school or college, ran away from home, went to prison twice, and been in a gang, but look at me now!”</p><br><p><b>Q- You have been out of prison for many years. What are your days like now?</b></p><br><p>A- Listen, I go back into prisons to speak to the prisoners and ask them to better themselves. Also, I want them to sign a petition asking them not to shoot up places randomly, killing innocent bystanders. (I do this work with my production crew.) We got nominated for an enemy for this story.</p><br><p><b>Q- Do your presentations make a difference?</b></p><br><p>A- I like to say that I have dropped seeds in people’s brains. In other words, I start the conversation. I have received thousands of letters from people whose lives I have touched. My agent says, “Victor, people either love you or they hate you.” That is the kind of personality that I have. I have the ability to be a magnet and I can use it for bad or good. I choose to use it for good. </p><br><p>To reach Victor Woods, visit <a href="https://victorwoods.com/#contact" target="_blank">https://victorwoods.com</a></p></span><span><br>Related articles:<br></span><div class="media clearfix">
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<p> </p><span><br><br><br><br></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:8540007c-4443-451d-b145-10d1673bf9422023-02-26T11:33:41-05:002023-09-06T10:45:31-04:00WOULD LIVING BE FUN WITH A LIFE MANUAL2023-02-26 12:00:00 -0500Okechukwu Nzeribe<span><p>If you ever had the chance to relive life would you hope someone would hand you a manual of life to guide you through the ropes, or would you prefer taking a leap of faith? </p><p>That was a question thrown at me, and truthfully, I was pretty unsure of how to answer such a question seeing that my opinion might differ concerning aspects of my life where I might desire a manual as a guide and other aspects where I might just want to dive into the deep and see what lies in store.</p><p>You see, life, indeed, has no formula. What works for one might be inapplicable to another. We all get to figure things out as we take each day in strides. I had come to accept a vital fact as I reflected on my younger years when I was quite opinionated on every topic under God's green earth. But with age comes wisdom, and the once exuberant young man has grown more reflective, less opinionated, and more accommodating.</p><p>Therein lies the beauty of life. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983663/fill/700x0/aziz-acharki-U3C79SeHa7k-unsplash.jpg?timestamp=1677429171">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/de/@acharki95?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Aziz Acharki</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/images/people/life?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a><br><br></div><p>You only know what is behind the bend once you take that leap of faith. You can only appreciate different perspectives once you have seen things from the other person's point of view. I learned early in life that you must have an open mind if you want to advance. Just because you are right doesn't mean there aren't other ways to look at things.</p><p>Whether it relates to marriage, education, friendship, or other aspects of life, human life is meant to be a journey of discovery. </p><p>Every waking moment is an opportunity to learn something, meet someone, achieve milestones, and grow. If we had a manual to accomplish all these, life would be boring.</p><p>The tremendous disservice anyone could do to themselves is to not live their lives to the fullest. That is why the cemetery is always referred to as the place of many regrets. Staying in your comfort zone is the quickest way to become unsatisfied. If you don't step outside your comfort zone, you won't learn anything new, and every aspect of your life will stagnate.</p><p>Discovering life may be as simple as honoring that invitation, going out on that date, taking up that job, or planning a flight or road trip to a foreign location. You can go right if you pick something, invest more in trying new things or see what's around the bend. </p><p>Do something new today because when people look back on their lives, they regret the risks they didn't take more than the ones they did. </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983666/fill/700x0/louis-hansel-uyNMxCFYMvo-unsplash.jpg?timestamp=1677429592">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@louishansel?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Louis Hansel</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/black-person-adventure?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></div></div><p> </p><p>Looking clearly at all of it you get to appreciate that there is no need for a manual for life because no one has it all figured and we are all discovering the mystery of each waking day.</p><p>So take to heart the words of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Single-Woman-Life-Love-Dash/dp/1400322316/ref=sr_1_1?gclid=Cj0KCQiAo-yfBhD_ARIsANr56g4FTlC8VYYpDV48w2FjlfWBvgL7xUKlpqx8lbqKHx2Rdju187ATWv8aAiA2EALw_wcB&hvadid=241615306926&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9007386&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17219038676069520831&hvtargid=kwd-314092367497&keywords=mandy+hale+the+single+woman&qid=1677428175&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Mandy Hale</a> in her book - <i>The Single Woman: Life, Love, and a Dash of Sass</i>, "Life isn't meant to be lived perfectly…but merely to be LIVED. Boldly, wildly, beautifully, uncertainly, imperfectly, magically LIVED".</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022" target="_blank">Small Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health in 2022</a></h4>
<p>Self-care won't solve every problem, but these quick and easy activities may at least bring some happiness to your day, and care for your mental health. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/01/15/387386/small-ways-to-take-care-of-your-mental-health-in-2022">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/01/24/424445/small-habits-that-have-huge-return-on-life" target="_blank"><img alt="Small Habits That Have Huge Return on Life " src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/977695/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1677428806" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/01/24/424445/small-habits-that-have-huge-return-on-life" target="_blank">Small Habits That Have Huge Return on Life </a></h4>
<p>Small and simple habits can go a long way in making major changes in your life. By focusing on one or two habits at a time, you can slowly and steadily boost your productivity and overall... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/01/24/424445/small-habits-that-have-huge-return-on-life">Read More »</a></span> </p></div></div></span><div class="media clearfix"> <br></div><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/01/31/425048/pros-and-cons-of-marriage-and-cohabitation" target="_blank"><img alt="Pros and Cons of Marriage and Cohabitation" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/978975/fit/80x80/pexels-jasmine-carter-888923.jpg?timestamp=1677428917" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/01/31/425048/pros-and-cons-of-marriage-and-cohabitation" target="_blank">Pros and Cons of Marriage and Cohabitation</a></h4>
<p>In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both types of relationships and examine the reasons for their popularity. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/01/31/425048/pros-and-cons-of-marriage-and-cohabitation">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p><span><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="https://cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/1036257/fill/300x0/okechukwu_20nzeribe.jpg?timestamp=1694011379"></div><p> Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures.<br><a href="mailto:nextquestservices@gmail.com">nextquestservices@gmail.com</a><br><br><br><br><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Okechukwu Nzeribe:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/17/426396/nigerian-music-industry-and-its-rapid-rise-on-the-global-stage" target="_blank"><img alt="Nigerian Music Industry and Its Rapid Rise on The Global Stage" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982001/fit/80x80/tems.png?timestamp=1677428263" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/17/426396/nigerian-music-industry-and-its-rapid-rise-on-the-global-stage" target="_blank">Nigerian Music Industry and Its Rapid Rise on The Global Stage</a></h4>
<p>Unquestionably, the Nigerian music industry has evolved over the years onto the global stage. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/17/426396/nigerian-music-industry-and-its-rapid-rise-on-the-global-stage">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/12/08/420347/the-thrill-of-homecoming-for-igbos-in-december" target="_blank"><img alt="pIheaka Village Enugu State NigeriabrImage Source Juju Films a href" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/968983/fit/80x80/igbo_20village.png?timestamp=1677428216"></a><p></p><br></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/12/08/420347/the-thrill-of-homecoming-for-igbos-in-december" target="_blank">The Thrill of Homecoming for Igbos in December</a></h4>
<p>The month of December is not just any month for the Igbo people of South Eastern Nigeria, it is a month that heralds the final closure to the hustling and bustling activities that have be... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/12/08/420347/the-thrill-of-homecoming-for-igbos-in-december">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><div><br></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:326996da-385b-4245-9b98-66c9d4c43ffd2023-02-20T13:06:30-05:002023-02-23T16:48:13-05:00The Ancient Origin Of The Bàtá Drum2023-02-24 14:00:00 -0500Burns Johnson<span><p>An essential drum used by the Yoruba people is the Bàtá, a double-headed drum shaped like an hourglass with one cone more significant than the other. Aside from being used in religious functions, festivals, carnivals, and coronations, it can also convey messages of hope, divination, praise, and war.</p><br><p>The ìyáàlù (mother) Bàtá drum is the biggest of the set of drums played by the <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/07/29/406809/ile-ife-the-cradle-of-yoruba-culture-and-civilization" target="_blank">Yoruba people</a>. For at least 500 years, these instruments served as a form of communication to Sàngó, Esu Egungun, Oya, and other <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/10/08/414420/yoruba-gods-that-influence-lives" target="_blank">Yoruba Orisa </a>cults. At the turn of the 21st century, they extended their repertoire to include sacred and non-sacred music, though this latter category is rare. The importance of Bàtá drums carries across the African diaspora – for instance, in New World Lucumi (Santeria), as found in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the United States – where it is used in both religious and secular settings.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982381/fill/700x0/image4.jpg?timestamp=1676915565"></div><p> </p><div>Bàtá drums have special religious and historical significance in African and Cuban cultures and traditions. They were introduced to Cuba through the <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/09/07/411117/slave-castles-the-legacy-of-a-horrific-past" target="_blank">slave trade</a> in the 19th century. As well as being part of Brazilian Candomblé, Bàtá drums are also an integral part of the African diaspora religion.<br></div></span><span><br><p>It consists of three drums of different sizes, similar to an hourglass. Each drum has two different-sized heads and is played sitting down with both hands on the drum.</p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/09/25/412410/sound-and-movement-a-brief-look-at-the-djembe-drum" target="_blank"><img alt="Sound and Movement A Brief Look at the Djembe Drum" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/951114/fit/80x80/Sound_20and_20movement_20-_20A.jpg?timestamp=1676916154" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/09/25/412410/sound-and-movement-a-brief-look-at-the-djembe-drum" target="_blank">Sound and Movement: A Brief Look at the Djembe Drum</a></h4>
<p>The sound of beating drums tends to engulf the air that surrounds you and, in some way, make you feel the need to move to the rhythm and get lost in possession of the tune. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/09/25/412410/sound-and-movement-a-brief-look-at-the-djembe-drum">Read More »</a></span> </p></div></div><p><br></p><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982382/fill/700x0/image3.jpg?timestamp=1676915604"></div><p><br></p><p>The Iyá Alu ("Mother") is the giant drum and leads the group, playing long, complex patterns with many variations and initiating conversations with the other two drums. The drums of Iyá are often adorned with bells and bronze caps called Chaworo, which enhance their vibrations and timbre when they are played.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982383/fill/700x0/image6.jpg?timestamp=1676915641"></div><p> </p><p>As a middle-sized drum, the Itótele plays long but less complex patterns with some variation, answering and occasionally initiating conversations.</p><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982384/fill/700x0/image5.jpg?timestamp=1676915783"></div><p> Okónkolo plays short, simple patterns with occasional conversations and variations. It is the smallest of the three.</p></div><div><span><br><br></span></div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982385/fill/700x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1676915854"></div><p><br></p><p>Several parts make up the Bàtá drum; "Igi Ilu" (wooden framework), leather, "Egi Ilu" (wide brooms used for support), "Osan" (wire work), "Iro" (black substance applied to the drum surface), "Bulala" (leather drumstick), and cowries. Afro-music producers now use this drum to produce musical sounds.</p><p><br></p><p>Related articles:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/10/08/414420/yoruba-gods-that-influence-lives" target="_blank"><img alt="Yoruba gods that influence lives" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/955081/fit/80x80/YORUBA_20Gods_20-_20A.jpg?timestamp=1676916053" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/10/08/414420/yoruba-gods-that-influence-lives" target="_blank">Yoruba gods that influence lives</a></h4>
<p>The Yoruba people of West Africa have a rich and varied mythology. Their gods and goddesses cover a wide range of topics, from love and fertility to war and death. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/10/08/414420/yoruba-gods-that-influence-lives">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/07/29/406809/ile-ife-the-cradle-of-yoruba-culture-and-civilization" target="_blank"><img alt="pDrummers at Oonis Palace Ile-Ife Source a href" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/938398/fit/80x80/Drummers_at_Ooni_s_Palace.jpeg?timestamp=1676916059"></a><p></p><br></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/07/29/406809/ile-ife-the-cradle-of-yoruba-culture-and-civilization" target="_blank">Ile-Ife: The Cradle of Yoruba Culture and Civilization</a></h4>
<p>Nestled in the heart of Yoruba land in southwestern Nigeria is the ancient city of Ile-Ife. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/07/29/406809/ile-ife-the-cradle-of-yoruba-culture-and-civilization">Read More »</a></span> </p></div></div><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/06/425833/nigeria-s-ancient-ancestral-rock-where-history-meets-tourism" target="_blank"><img alt="Nigerias Ancient Ancestral Rock Where History meets Tourism" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/980515/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1676916177" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/06/425833/nigeria-s-ancient-ancestral-rock-where-history-meets-tourism" target="_blank">Nigeria’s Ancient Ancestral Rock: Where History meets Tourism</a></h4>
<p>The stone is a substantial monument created by nature, using local resources, and Its patron spirit is revered in the Yoruba religion as an Orisha. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/06/425833/nigeria-s-ancient-ancestral-rock-where-history-meets-tourism">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/975928/fill/300x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1676915931"></div><p> Immanuel Burns Johnson is a young and dedicated social media personnel. He was born, raised and schooled in Lagos, Nigeria. His hobbies include traveling, sports, political criticism and mobile games like C.O.D.M. Apart from these; he is also interested in skydiving and aeronautics. He is skilled in web coding and has a trait of hard work. This has helped him become successful in his field at a young age.<br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Burns Johnson:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians" target="_blank"><img alt="All-Time African Most Influential Musicians " src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/979521/fit/80x80/image8.jpg?timestamp=1676916334" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians" target="_blank">All-Time African Most Influential Musicians </a></h4>
<p>African music has been an integral part of the culture for centuries, and many great musicians have emerged from the continent. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/06/425337/all-time-african-most-influential-musicians">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/13/425841/east-african-hip-hop-8-iconic-rappers-who-put-east-africa-on-the-map" target="_blank"><img alt="East African Hip Hop 8 Iconic Rappers Who Put East Africa On The Map" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/980548/fit/80x80/east_20african_20rappers.jpg?timestamp=1676915969" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/13/425841/east-african-hip-hop-8-iconic-rappers-who-put-east-africa-on-the-map" target="_blank">East African Hip Hop: 8 Iconic Rappers Who Put East Africa On The Map</a></h4>
<p>"East African hip hop" is a genre of music that developed in East Africa in the late 1980s and early 1990s. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/13/425841/east-african-hip-hop-8-iconic-rappers-who-put-east-africa-on-the-map">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2023/02/15/426083/reggae-music-the-root-and-history-of-this-genre" target="_blank"><img alt="Reggae Music The Root And History Of This Genre" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/981079/fit/80x80/image1.jpg?timestamp=1676916349" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2023/02/15/426083/reggae-music-the-root-and-history-of-this-genre" target="_blank">Reggae Music: The Root And History Of This Genre</a></h4>
<p>The Reggae music style emerged in Jamaica in the late 1960s and became the dominant style there for many years. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2023/02/15/426083/reggae-music-the-root-and-history-of-this-genre">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p></div></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:097fefa9-22e2-4eb2-8e5e-be093586a7902023-02-23T16:25:51-05:002023-02-23T16:51:15-05:00YOU SHOULD SEE THESE PLACES WHEN VISITING KENYA2023-02-24 12:00:00 -0500Minna Davies<p>Kenya has lush landscapes, ancient sites, and stunning wildlife. From its snow-capped mountains in the north to its gorgeous beaches on the Indian Ocean, <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/12/11/377940/17-kenyan-proverbs-to-inspire-wisdom-this-season" target="_blank">Kenya</a> offers something for every traveler. <br></p><span><br><p>Something can be found in this African nation whether you're looking for an adventure or some relaxation time. </p><br><p>In this post, we will explore some of the most beautiful places to see in Kenya. </p><br><p>From national parks to safari tours and more, we will cover everything you need to know about making your trip to Kenya one of the best experiences of your life. So without further ado, let's dive in!</p><p><br></p><h2>The Maasai Mara</h2><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983042/fill/700x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1677187386"></div><p> </p><p>The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a large game reserve in southwestern Kenya, adjacent to the Serengeti National Park in <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2023/02/23/426526/a-brief-history-of-volleyball-in-eastern-africa-of-tanzania" target="_blank">Tanzania</a>. </p><p>It is named in honor of the <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/12/12/338916/exploring-the-majestic-maasai-tribe-on-kenya-independence" target="_blank">Maasai people</a>, who live in the area and have traditionally used the land for cattle grazing. The reserve covers an area of 1,510 square kilometres (580 square miles) and is one of Kenya's most popular tourist destinations.</p><p> </p><p> The reserve has various animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and hippos. Visitors to the reserve can also see many birds, including vultures, storks, and flamingos. </p><p><b><br></b></p><p>The annual wildebeest migration through the Serengeti-Maasai Mara ecosystem is one of the most impressive natural phenomena in the world.</p><p> </p><p> The <a href="https://www.maasaimara.com/" target="_blank">Maasai Mara National Reserve</a> was established in 1961 as a wildlife conservation area. In 1974, it was designated a national park. Today, it is managed by the <a href="http://www.kws.go.ke/" target="_blank">Kenya Wildlife Service</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix"><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2020/12/12/338916/exploring-the-majestic-maasai-tribe-on-kenya-independence" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/783751/fit/80x80/masai_20tribe.jpg?timestamp=1677188460" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2020/12/12/338916/exploring-the-majestic-maasai-tribe-on-kenya-independence" target="_blank">Exploring the Majestic Maasai Tribe on Kenya Independence</a></h4>
<p>On Kenyan Independence Day, we are highlighting one of its most well known tribes: the Maasai. Most Maasai are known for their tall stature, spears, red clothing and retention of traditio... <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2020/12/12/338916/exploring-the-majestic-maasai-tribe-on-kenya-independence">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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<p> </p></div><p><br></p><h2>Amboseli National Park</h2><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983044/fill/700x0/image3.jpg?timestamp=1677187444"></div><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.kws.go.ke/amboseli-national-park" target="_blank">Amboseli National Park</a> in Kenya is an iconic destination for wildlife and nature lovers. The park is known for its incredible variety of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unbeatable sunsets. </p><p><b><br></b></p><p>Whether you're looking to explore the beauty of the African savanna or experience a once-in-a-lifetime safari, Amboseli National Park is your ticket to the wildest dreams you can imagine. </p><p><b><br></b></p><p>In this post, we'll look at what makes Amboseli National Park unique and why it's one of the most sought-after destinations in Africa. From where to stay and what animals to see, read on to learn more about this bucket list destination.</p><p><b><br></b></p><p>The history of Amboseli National Park goes back to the early twentieth century when it was established as a game reserve. In 1948, the park was designated as a national park. Since then, Amboseli has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kenya.</p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/05/21/400482/importance-of-gastronomy-tourism-in-africa" target="_blank"><img alt="Importance of Gastronomy Tourism in Africa" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/922629/fit/80x80/image2.png?timestamp=1677188348" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/05/21/400482/importance-of-gastronomy-tourism-in-africa" target="_blank">Importance of Gastronomy Tourism in Africa</a></h4>
<p>Gastronomy is much more than just-food. It represents distinct peoples' cultures, history, customs, and feelings of community. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/05/21/400482/importance-of-gastronomy-tourism-in-africa">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><p></p><p><br></p><h2>Lake Nakuru</h2><br><br><div><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983045/fill/700x0/image2.jpg?timestamp=1677188128"></div><p><br></p><p><a href="http://www.kws.go.ke/lake-nakuru-national-park" target="_blank"> Lake Nakuru</a> is situated in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya. It lies on the floor of the valley at an elevation of 1,754 m above sea level and has an area of 188 km2. The lake is surrounded by wooded and bushy grassland. Several hot springs around the lake maintain a constant water temperature of 20-22 degrees Celsius.</p><span><br><p>Lake Nakuru's ecosystem is home to many animals, including many species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The most common fish in the lake are tilapia and catfish. </p><br><p>The amphibians include several species of frogs and toads. </p><br><p>The reptiles include crocodiles, snakes, and turtles. </p><br><p>The mammals include hippopotamuses, waterbucks, zebras, giraffes, buffalos, and elands.</p><br><p>The lake is world-famous for its vast flocks of lesser and greater flamingos that feed on Spirulina platensis, a cyanobacterium that flourishes in alkaline waters. </p><br><p>The number of birds often reaches 1.5 million. Other large waterbirds include pelicans, herons, egrets, ducks, and gulls.</p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
<span class="pull-left"><a href="/2022/06/01/401943/5-best-african-beaches-to-explore" target="_blank"><img alt="5 Best African Beaches to Explore" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/925770/fit/80x80/image3.png?timestamp=1677188328" class="media-object"></a></span>
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<h4 class="media-heading"><a href="/2022/06/01/401943/5-best-african-beaches-to-explore" target="_blank">5 Best African Beaches to Explore</a></h4>
<p>The African continent has roughly 18,950 miles/30,500 kilometers of coastline, including an abundance of magnificent beaches. <span class="pull-right"><a href="/2022/06/01/401943/5-best-african-beaches-to-explore">Read More »</a></span> </p>
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</p><p> </p><br><h2>Tsavo West National Park</h2><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/983046/fill/700x0/image4.jpg?timestamp=1677188160"></div><p><br></p><p><a href="http://www.kws.go.ke/tsavo-west-national-park" target="_blank">Tsavo West National Park</a> is one of Kenya's most stunning natural landscapes. </p><span><br><p>Situated along the coast, its landscapes range from tropical rainforests to semi-arid savannahs and offer a variety of activities for travellers. </p><br><p>There are plenty of things to do in Tsavo West National Park! For starters, you can go on a game drive and see some of the incredible wildlife in Kenya. </p><br><p>You can also visit Mzima Springs, where you can see hippos and crocodiles, or go on a safari walk and learn about the plants and animals that call Tsavo West home. </p><br><p>Several massage therapists and tour guides are also available for hire, so you can relax and enjoy your time in the park without worrying about planning everything yourself.</p><p><br></p><p>Related:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<p> </p></div><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/934785/fill/300x0/IMG_7548.jpeg.jpg?timestamp=1677188212"></div><p> Minna Davies is a creative writer and a thespian with a degree in theatre arts from the University of Lagos. He has been privileged to have some of his works featured on Nigeria's big stages. It is important to dream, but if no one gets to see it, it is as good as dead. <br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Read more from Minna Davies:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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<p> </p></div></div></span><div><br></div></div><div><br></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:790635ba-4fd7-472a-abc2-bba1afceffab2023-02-20T13:21:36-05:002023-02-22T10:59:47-05:00A Brief History of Volleyball in Eastern Africa Of Tanzania 2023-02-23 14:00:00 -0500Burns Johnson<span><p>As the volleyball scene in Tanzania has slowly grown over the past few decades, some incredible feats have been achieved. A powerhouse in the sport, Tanzania is producing some of the best players worldwide and winning medals at international tournaments.</p><br><p>Volleyball first came to <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2021/12/08/377691/celebrate-tanzania-independence-with-these-7-local-tanzanian-dishes" target="_blank">Tanzania</a> in the early 1920s, when British colonials, European settlers, and missionaries brought it. Evidence of the sport being played can be found as far back as 1911, when two teams of British soldiers had a match against each other here. It soon became a beloved pastime, and there were numerous clubs in Dar es Salaam before the 1930s. Today, it remains popular among Tanzanians and is frequently enjoyed on the <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2022/06/01/401943/5-best-african-beaches-to-explore" target="_blank">beach</a>.</p><p><br></p><div>Two teams of British soldiers played the first official volleyball match in <a href="https://www.funtimesmagazine.com/2020/12/09/338345/tanzania-independence-day-mount-kilimanjaro-wildlife-and-animal-preservation" target="_blank">Tanzania</a><span> in 1922, but it wasn't until 1955 that the first national volleyball federation was founded. As a result, the sport's grassroots and elite levels developed.<br><br><br></span><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/982387/fill/700x0/image2.jpg?timestamp=1676916672"></div><p> </p><p>The first national volleyball federation was founded in 1954, and the country made its international debut at the 1956 African Championships, finishing in fourth place. Since then, Tanzania has participated regularly in major competitions such as the <a href="https://inside.fei.org/fei/games/cont-regional/all-africa" target="_blank">All-Africa Games</a> and the <a href="https://www.cafonline.com/africa-cup-of-nations/" target="_blank">Africa Cup of Nations</a>.</p><p><b><br></b></p><p>Tanzanian volleyball's most memorable moment came at the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow when the national team stunned the world by defeating China in the quarter-finals.</p><p><b><br></b></p><p>In recent years, volleyball has grown in popularity in Tanzania among people of all ages and abilities.</p><p><br></p><p>The Tanzania National Volleyball team has earned many international awards and boasts some of the world's finest volleyball players. This sport has been instrumental in uniting people from diverse backgrounds, promoting national pride, and providing youths with invaluable skills and self-belief. Above all else, it has created a more inclusive culture where everyone can compete on common ground.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Related articles:</p><div class="media clearfix">
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</p><p> </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/975928/fill/300x0/image1.jpg?timestamp=1676916777"></div><p> <span>Immanuel Burns Johnson is a young and dedicated social media personnel. He was born, raised and schooled in Lagos, Nigeria. His hobbies include traveling, sports, political criticism and mobile games like C.O.D.M. Apart from these; he is also interested in skydiving and aeronautics. He is skilled in web coding and has a trait of hard work. This has helped him become successful in his field at a young age.<br></span><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br>Read more from Burns Johnson:<br></p><div class="media clearfix">
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<p> </p></div></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>