Let’s discuss how we navigate privilege and success. Are we heading in the right direction if we focus on individualism or collectivism? Are you aware of your privilege? Are you being responsible for it? Can your success be valid if it does not reflect in your community? In this episode, we share our reflections and experiences on defining success and how privilege influences that and can enhance that.
Mentioned in this episode: here is the clip with Trevor Noah talking about the importance of acknowledging our differences and privileges and how that affects our success.
Mindfulness is important for all of us, but how do you feel about the aesthetics and commercialization of the mindfulness industry? In this episode, we discuss our experience and reflections on meditation, yoga, regulating emotions and navigating these things through distractions and privileges. We also share a meditation exercise you can do anywhere.
Are you into country music? Did you know an enslaved Black man invented the Banjo? Did you know the original cowboys were Black, Mexican, and Native American? Did you know the Hollywood Country Western movie era resulted from aesthetic copying and Jim Crow laws? Well, have we got a show for you.
In this episode, we decided to take an educational and experimental approach to our discussion. This was inspired by Beyonce’s new album Cowboy Carter and our own experience growing up in Texas. We gave ourselves a homework assignment to explore the origins of Country music, Country Western culture, the Rodeo, and modern discrepancies in these industries.
Let us know what you think of the episode.
Here are the links to the information we mentioned in this episode:
Let’s get back into the driver’s seat because we can’t let these apps, thoughts, or things continue to drive us. True, we are in an era that is full of a lot of convenient distractions. Are we doomed? Of course not. In this episode, we share our experience in eliminating distractions within technology, social media, negative thoughts, and people. We also share tips you can implement now to get better at balancing distractions in your life.
The African Games in Ghana was a big program that provided a spectrum of victories and hiccups. As it was the first time an event like this was hosted in Ghana, I was curious to witness it. I attended the opening ceremony and some of the tennis and net ball games. Let’s recap, shall we?
The 13th edition of the African Games was hosted in Ghana in March 2024. The program was 15 days of sports contests and ceremonies. Reportedly, Ghana hosted 5,000 athletes and coaches from 55 African countries, competing in 29 selected sports codes, plus 3,000 technical officers, journalists, and global celebrities. The African Games were used as an official qualifier for the XXXIII Olympic Games Paris 2024.
I had the pleasure of attending the opening ceremony for the African Games. It was really beautiful to witness all the African countries being represented. The show was also a very nice production. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to experience this.
A theme (or statement) that was repeated by the MC and within multiple speeches was “this is Africa’s time.” Emphasizing that sports and music will continue to unify Africa through these games.
This is lovely, if we are seriously committed. Seeing the NFL and NBA position themselves in Africa makes sense. But I hope we don’t stop there. I trust we don’t settle for entertainment. A unified Africa will also benefit from removal of visa and travel restrictions, exploitation policies, crabs in a bucket, economic hitmen, money laundering investments, genocide allies, and colonizer puppet strings. The money sports and music brings can move some of this. It would be nice to see more of that on the ground, instead of more talk in the air. I’m looking forward to when that does happen.
Apparently, supposedly, and allegedly, the African Games was moved from October 2023 to March 2024 for two reasons:
The sports facility was not ready yet. (A British company got the contract to build it. So, do we blame Ghana Time or something else?)
The marketing revenue or budget was not established yet. (Maybe we can blame Ghana Time for that one)
Now, the games took place in March 2024.
The sports facility was very nice. I hope and trust it is maintained and utilized well after the program.
The marketing for the program was slacking. The information for who was playing and timing was missing or posted on social media after the fact. In spite of this, I was glad to see folks taking the initiative to explore and bring the whole family to a new activity. This was a great a program for people of all ages to enjoy. Ticket were not scanned or checked when I went. Technically, I guess the games were free. I don’t know where my 150ghc went. But I release it as a good effort donation to Ghana’s economy. You’re welcome.
The timing to reschedule this program also made me wonder. Since it includes all African countries, that means some of the athletes would be fasting in March. I felt it was not fair to be fasting and performing in the heat like that. Of course, the athletes are professionals. Those who are supposed to go to the Olympics will get there regardless. But, I feel we could have been more considerate of everyone.
🚨ICYMI🇬🇭🎶: @IamKingPromise performed songs like ‘Perfect Combi,’ ‘Paris,’ & ‘Terminator’ at the Opening Ceremony of the 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana. – 📹: @mygtvsports
I commend Ghana for pushing through to host the African Games. It was the first time and not an easy task. Now we know how to do it better next time. I feel a lot of what was reported or shared through mainstream media and WhatsApp groups was heavy on negativity. Yes, that one shoe size was incorrect. Yes, that one ambulance did not have fuel. Yes, some of the signs were printed on regular paper. Yes, ECG thought it was the perfect time to turn off the power at a stadium during a game. Ok. But, I feel none of that weighs as much or overshadows all the good that did occur.
The arrangement to host the African Games was made years in advance. Using projections that possibly were no longer viable at the time of the program. From my understanding, the funding to host the program was not available in one full sum, but dispersed periodically or in smaller amounts. Also, from what I could see, a lot of people were needed to balance this program. Which means, the main organizations in charge needed to use a variety of third parties and vendors. So, could it be possible, that some of the hiccups were not caused by “wow, look at Ghana, who can’t do anything correct,” but, instead, caused by a trickle down disfunction of communication, schedules, or payments. It is not fair to compare your first time doing something to someone else’s 80th time doing something. Even if it is a country, ministry, or corporation.
All of the athletes, teams, reporters, etc. who traveled to Ghana for the African Games were singing Ghana’s praises. They felt safe. They commended the organization. And, of course, they enjoyed Ghana’s infamous hospitality for foreigners. That deserves credit.
During the activities and ceremony I attended, the stands were full. This was not only Ghana’s elite enjoying. A variety of Ghanaians had something to experience and look forward to. Even if it was just a moment away from their daily frustrations, this should count for something.
Maybe this is a mindset thing for me. I’m not saying we should ignore the hiccups or mistakes. But, the comparisons should be inspiration or motivation. For example, the comparison competition looking at how Ivory Coast hosted the African Cup Of Nations a month before should be viewed as inspiration and motivation. There were different nuances, funding, and work ethic at play. Instead, if you need to look at competition, take note if Ghana could have hosted the African Games 10 years ago. Take note if the NFL, NBA, or other mainstream sports organizations would pay attention to Ghana 20 years ago. At the present, we believe we should be further along then we are. I agree with you on that. But, you are not standing in one place. The movement is happening. I just hope and trust we grow more clear on the direction of that movement to be more mutually beneficial.
Overall, I think the African Games in Accra was good. Next time, it will be even better.
Did you attend any of the activities? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments. I always love hearing from you.
Let’s have a different type of Detty December, shall we? I took the time to connect and search to create a schedule of events and programs that resonated with me. From panel discussions, cultural showcases, and community initiatives, I feel the time was worthwhile. As a disclaimer, some of the events were free, some I was invited to with a free ticket, and some I purchased a ticket. Compared to the last time I indulged in Ghana’s December season (in 2019), I am encouraged to see more variety in programs, events, initiatives, and people. This is something a lot of people were commenting on back in 2019 and I’m glad to see more people show up to make that happen.
Now let’s elaborate on the recap
The MoneyHub Business Summit
First, the MoneyHub Business Summit. The event was very well organized. You know how some events can be a lot of talk with no substance. This was the complete opposite. The speakers shared relatable insight and the community was like-minded in networking priorities.
Disclaimer: I was invited with a free ticket.
Here are some gems I picked up from the speakers:
Always keep learning.
For business in Ghana, focus more on private individuals for building and investments, instead of the government.
Build it first. Take your time to grow. The team and collaborations come later. You don’t need an office or aesthetics to be successful.
With your service, product, network, or mentorship: focus on how you contribute to save time and provide a good time to others.
Be vulnerable. Teach someone. Allow someone to teach you.
Journey to Womb Wealth and Wellness
Next, Journey to Womb Wealth and Wellness with Travel Deeper Inc. This session was focused on fibroids. We had insightful and impactful conversations, empowering testimonies, breath work, affirmations, and a delicious meal.
Disclaimer: I purchased my ticket.
Did you know there is advocacy happening here to raise more awareness and resources for fibroids and grow past stigma? Whether its medically, holistically, traditionally, or all the above, people are taking their power back and sharing the knowledge.
I feel really encouraged events and communitites like this are developing and taking more space here. It’s needed.
The Ladies First Hip Hop Brunch with Crescendo Foods was cool. Three lady chefs prepared a 6 course meal inspired by lady hip hop artists. We also got to jam to a lady hip hop playlist. This was a unique experience.
Wood x Watta: Afro-Caribbean Business Brunch & Art Show
This event featured multiple panel discussions, art exhibit, and networking
The main gem I picked up: We now are more knowledgeable of the data and evidence for what we are capable of, what our value is, and the limitless possibilities. We are removing the middle men and obstacles. We are doing all of this slow and steady. I really appreciated the initiative and mindset.
For example, during one of the conversations focused on real estate, I noted how the main customer base developers are relying on are Ghanaians living in the Diaspora. This developer and their team made an intentional effort to create a database for this to understand who to target their marketing and who to build for. I found this interesting because since 2019, most of the rhetoric for selling to and marketing to Diasporans have been for people who are not from Ghana. As in, making the claim that all the rising in buildings, events, and prices are due to African Americans, Caribbeans, or others coming to Ghana. On the ground, I have noted this is not the case when it comes to who is living in these new apartment buildings…even when some of them remain empty for some time. So, it was refreshing to hear developers here be honest about what the market actually is.
Additionally, it was at this event they announced the launch of the Ghanaian Jamaican Chamber of Commerce. Proving there is more being done to bridge the gap in business, culture, travel, etc between these two countries.
This woman-owned business started as a natural hair care line. With this relaunch they are expanding as a lifestyle brand with a new tea product. This event was a combination of a product launch and photography exhibit. The theme focused on self-care in a woman’s sanctuary.
These are some of the gems I picked up:
Celebrate and respect wellness practices, giving credit to the originals who invented them.
Self-care looks different for everyone. In this collaboration, the photos showcase women in their sanctuary. Community activities, like weaving together, cooking together, or dancing together, are considered self-care. or a labor of love. It is very different from meditating alone on a mountain in Narnia.
Give yourself permission to expand in every direction your heart desires. It all connects.
This was one of the most enjoyable experiences for me. It was a spectacular production. I really appreciate the initiative and intention. It was a wholesome event for all ages.
Ok, the plot. The gods request for Kwame Nkrumah to come back to life to save Africa. We see all the freedom fighters in the underworld strategize for this and one by one convince Kwame Nkrumah to accept the request and go. He comes back to life and establishes the United States of Africa. But can a leader who is selfless truly succeed?
Now, this next part does include spoilers for the play. If you don’t want to know what happens in the story yet, skip this next part, please.
Cool, right? The play had history, culture, and comedy. It also planted intentional seeds. I loved how they connected generations and interacted with the audience throughout the play. Kwame Nkrumah had an assistant, who was supposed to also be his bodyguard, who provided most of the comic relief and connected with the audience. He primarily spoke pidgin and would ask Kwame Nkrumah the questions others would feel too embarrased to ask. I thought this was very important because it shows the future and support for Ghana and it’s people is not only restricted to those who speak “big big” english.
They also had a great scene where these two characters were debating which generation had better music. So, they decided to have a competition and the audience must vote. Kwame Nkrumah sang with the band, including songs by Bob Marley and Osibisa. His assistant sang with the band, including afrobeat songs that are being played on the radio now. The audience sang along to all of it, but, of course, voted for the assistant.
Through out the story, we see Kwame Nkrumah surprised or disappointed by what he sees is happening in Ghana today. Once he established the United States of Africa, he hosts a dinner celebration and chooses to invite the Queen of England and a representative from the US. Of course, at this dinner, there is an assassination attempt and his assistant is killed. This causes Kwame Nkrumah to return to the underworld. We see him talking with the other freedom fighters. He is very upset and saddened. Noting that again, he tried to help Africa, and again they tried to kill him. Each of the freedom fighters remind him of why he is the only person out of all of them who can make the difference Africa needs. It is a really powerful and important scene as they each share the history they each contributed to.
In addition to the play, the venue was transformed with exhibits and replicas of African landmarks to take photos with. There were also camels.
For me, this was the highlight of my entire December in Ghana experience. Every detail of this production was intentional, organized, and impactful. I really loved the message. If they end up touring or coming back to Ghana, please make a point to see this and support. It is well worth it. I would see it again.
I, Dagny, DJ
Yes, it is true. I DJ. Actually, I started DJing a while ago, but this is the first time playing publicly and consistently. I share more on that story in the video below. At the moment, I am focusing on Kizomba music. I kind of see this music as another illustration of Pan-Africanism. Music from different parts of the continent and Diaspora.
I’m grateful to the social dance community in Accra who have been open to me playing at their social parties. They have been very encouraging with tips, opportunites, and equipment. It has also been fun creating my signature DJ style and introducing them to new songs, plus witness what people enjoy to dance to.
Just to think, 2 years ago (in 2021) I was introduced to Kizomba dancing in Accra by a stranger. Then, 1 year and a half later (in 2023) I’m traveling to Benin with the Kizomba community to my first dance festival. This year (in 2024), I am DJing at Kizomba parties and my name is on flyers. I’m encouraged to see how this experience continues to blossom.
If you would like to hear some of my mixes, I upload them on mixcloud. I’m also experimenting with posting videos of me practicing with different genres on Instagram (possibly later YouTube). Next, I’m interested in exploring how to produce mashups and remixes.
My final event was a Moroccan Tea Tasting with Aguma Tea. This was my first time at a tea tasting. We learned about the benefits of different herbs and created our own tea. We also sampled different teas from Morocco. It was a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon. I also loved the theme.
Overall, I enjoyed myself. Which was your favorite event? Let me know in the comments. I always love hearing from you.
Dagny Zenovia 