WELLLL, hello again!
This week, I had a different message for you — then the Wicked movie premiered!
I haven’t seen it yet, but this isn’t a review of the movie—it’s a reflection on the press coverage of the two stars. I’ve been excited to see what Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, two artists who are unafraid to be wholly themselves, will do in this movie.
My excitement was almost derailed when I saw how the British press turned itself into a pretzel to ignore Cynthia and focus almost entirely on Ariana. The usual media suspects, including The Daily Mail and The Daily Telegraph, were the main culprits. My thoughts started to spiral and went into a doomscroll. Then I saw Cynthia's adorable interview with Cocoa Girl Mag.
WHEW – it brought me back, people! It was a conversation between Cynthia Erivo and a girl who asked her what to do if they didn’t get the part they wanted. And Cynthia’s answer was perfect: What isn’t yours, isn’t yours.
Cynthia talked to many other UK Black women and girls during this press blitz, and I think this was the conversation she wanted to have first. Cynthia knew what was up. Of course, she didn’t want the pain of being ignored. Like many of us in the diaspora, she grew up knowing she didn’t fit, didn’t feel wanted or safe, and could be vilified for speaking up. But none of that distracted her. I genuinely believe she invested her energy and emotions in her primary audience.
Realizing this reminded me of the conversations I’ve had with so many people in my real-life community who have reminded me to stay focused on what’s real and - as far as my work is concerned - my north star. Just after the U.S. election, I got the (to quote Ariana) ‘Yes… and?’ talk from my sister, who reminded me not to let others steal my humanity or joy. In the past year, a good friend, Sharon Brooks, has kept me steady and reminded me that names and labels ain't it - it’s what I bring to the table.’ I’ve just highlighted conversations with two of you – and I thank you all.
Now I’m gonna detour for a second. I mention Sharon by name because I also wanna shout her out. I am in the business of amplifying Black creative innovators, after all, lol! This writer and executive won a CLIO award for her work on the Ally x ESPN Flip the Game campaign. The CLIOS recognizes excellence in advertising, design, and communication. She’s a creative who brings mission, talent, and heart to her work!
Now, back to the topic at hand. I’ve also received messages from listeners and the creators we’re amplifying. Thank you for encouraging me to continue telling and amplifying the stories of Black creatives worldwide who are ignored by the mainstream press. You’re right; our stories are needed now more than ever.
This is a team effort. I’m not stopping at the podcast. I’ll extend support to other areas of the platform and outline what this looks like in my next post. If you value this work and believe in amplifying the work of Black creators worldwide, you can help us continue by subscribing to AudioDiaspora on Substack for $50 a year.
EP 81: Fight for the Life of Your Work! AudioDiaspora 2024 Highlights
It’s nearly the end of 2024, and as the year winds down, Christabel takes a moment to reflect on some of the most impactful AudioDiaspora conversations of the year so far. From the power of telling your truth to the art of owning your narrative, this episode is packed with wisdom from Black creatives you SHOULD know - and stories that will help the creators amongst you to push boundaries and stay true to your roots as you create your work.
You'll hear Nana-Ama Danquah's wisdom on fighting for your work, Fritznel D. Octave’s commitment to truth and journalistic integrity, Andy Mundy-Castle’s take on humility in storytelling, and Kerry-Ann Stimpson’s actionable advice on using data to grow authentic communities. This isn’t just a recap—it’s a guide to navigating creativity and connection in a genuine and empowering way.
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IG: @christabelnsiahbuadi
Website: www.nsiahbuadi.com