6 Women Shaping & Inspiring Culture, Music and Film.
The month of March was set aside to spotlight women breaking barriers, leading conversations, and reshaping industries. As we begin a new calendar month, we selected a few of our personal favorites, a reminder that women leaders will always be vital, celebrated, and unstoppable.
Angélique Kidjo
Few artists embody the spirit of African music like Angélique Kidjo. With an incredible 16 albums and five Grammy Awards to her name, her voice is both powerful and timeless. From fusing traditional African sounds with global influences to electrifying audiences with her stage presence, Kidjo is an unstoppable force. More than just a musician, she’s an activist, using her platform to advocate for education, women’s rights, and African culture worldwide.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s storytelling is more than literature—it’s a movement. From Purple Hibiscus and Half of a Yellow Sun to Americanah and her latest, Dream Count, her works have captivated hearts and challenged societal norms. Beyond her novels, she has ignited global conversations on feminism through TED Talks, speeches at schools, and numerous other platforms. Recognized among Time’s most influential people, Adichie’s voice doesn’t just resonate—it shapes culture, education, and activism.
Cynthia Erivo
Whether on Broadway or in Hollywood, Cynthia Erivo commands the stage with a magnetic presence. From Harriet to The Color Purple, she brings characters to life with unmatched intensity. But beyond acting, she’s a vocal powerhouse, using her music and influence to champion diversity and inclusion in entertainment.
Lupita Nyong’o
Lupita Nyong’o isn’t just an actress; she’s a cultural icon. From her Oscar-winning performance in 12 Years a Slave to her standout roles in Black Panther and Us, She has consistently proven that talent knows no limits. Off-screen, her children’s book Sulwe addresses colorism and self-acceptance, and she consistently advocates for African heritage, representation, and equality.
Tems
Tems has redefined what it means to be a Nigerian artist on the global stage. With two Grammy wins and collaborations with industry giants like Drake, Future, and Beyoncé, her distinct voice and style are setting new standards. But her impact extends beyond music—she’s a savvy businesswoman, navigating the industry on her own terms and expanding her influence far beyond singing. By prioritizing creative control and ownership, she has become a role model for independent artists, proving that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about vision, strategy, and unwavering self-determination.
Tshwenlo Marendi
Not all game-changers seek the spotlight—some redefine industries from behind the scenes. Tshwenlo Maredi is one of them. With experience at MultiChoice, Showmax, Trace, and now Apple Music for the past 6 years, she has been instrumental in taking African music to the global stage. An undeniable support behind the Afrobeats movement, she has created platforms where African artists can thrive, ensuring their voices resonate far beyond the continent.
Each of these women is a trailblazer—pushing boundaries, breaking records, and reshaping the narrative. Their stories are proof that the future belongs to those who dare to dream, create, and inspire.