Exclusive interview with Malik Afegbua "Unveiling Malik: the mind behind the vision".

Malik is a name synonymous with innovation, resilience and creativity. A pioneer in his field, Malik has consistently pushed boundaries, redefining what success looks like in a competitive world. Today, we sit down with him to explore the driving forces behind his journey, uncovering the key moments that have shaped his path. From his early inspirations to his approach to challenges, Malik's story is one of determination and vision. This conversation promises to offer a glimpse into his unique mindset, his strategies for overcoming obstacles and his aspirations for the future. Let's dive into Malik's world and his remarkable journey.

1. Vision and legacy

Jombelek: What personal legacy do you hope to leave to future African storytellers in the digital art and film sectors?
Malik: I hope to leave a legacy that demonstrates how technology can be used to amplify African narratives while promoting social change. Through my work with The Elder Series and C.E.L.S., I'm showing future storytellers that they can use cutting-edge tools like AI to solve social problems while staying true to their cultural roots. I want them to see that they can be both innovators and heritage preservers.
Jombelek: How do you define "Afro-futurism" in your work, and where do you see Africa fitting into the global technological and creative ecosystem 50 years from now?
"In my work, Afrofuturism is not just about imagining a technologically advanced Africa, but also about using today's tools to honor our heritage while solving real societal challenges. My work revolves around enduring legacies and using narrative to amplify positive change. In 50 years, I see Africa as a leading force in creative technology, where our unique cultural perspectives shape global innovation.

2. Cultural identity and storytelling

Jombelek: How do you reconcile preserving cultural authenticity with appealing to a global audience?

Malik: I don't see it as a balance, but as a synthesis. My work with "The Elder Series" has proven that deeply authentic African perspectives can resonate on a global scale. When we tell our stories with sincerity, using universal themes like respect for elders while employing cutting-edge technology, we create works that naturally connect cultures.
Jombelek: What's the African story or unsung historical figure you're most looking forward to reinterpreting through digital art or film?

Malik: I'm particularly interested in reinterpreting the stories of Africans through intentional storytelling via films, documentaries and art installations. Through my work at Slickcity Media, I seek to capture their lived experiences and knowledge systems through immersive technologies, preserving these vital perspectives for future generations.
Jombelek: How does your Nigerian heritage challenge or enhance your creative process?
Malik: My Nigerian heritage fundamentally shapes my creative process by providing a rich cultural framework that values community and intergenerational wisdom. This perspective has influenced my approach to problem-solving strategies and innovative methods based on real-life experiences and relatable stories.

3. Technology and innovation

Jombelek: What future technology will redefine African art and storytelling over the next decade?
Malik: I think mixed reality and AI will redefine African storytelling by enabling us to create immersive experiences that preserve and share our cultural heritage. We're already seeing this, but the potential of combining AI with traditional storytelling methods is only just beginning to be explored.
Jombelek: Would you consider creating a metaverse for African art and culture? What would it look like?
Malik: Yes, I'm planning to create a metaverse that would serve as a living museum of African culture, art and wisdom. It would be an interactive space where traditional knowledge meets futuristic presentation, just as my work with Meta explored the preservation of African heritage through virtual reality. This digital space would allow people from all over the world to discover the richness of African culture in an immersive way.
Jombelek: How do you see AI reshaping visual storytelling, and how can African creators use it without losing their cultural essence?
Malik: AI is a powerful tool for visual storytelling, as I demonstrated with "The Elder Series". The key is to use AI as an amplifier of our cultural narratives rather than as a substitute. African creators can use AI to extend their reach while preserving cultural authenticity by carefully organizing training data and staying true to their artistic vision.

4. Local vs. global perspective

Jombelek: Is there a specific African tradition or ritual that could revolutionize fashion or global media if adapted through technology?
Malik: Traditional African textile patterns and their narrative elements could revolutionize global fashion through technological experimentation. Imagine wearing traditional patterns that come to life through technology to tell their stories. This fusion of heritage and innovation represents the kind of work we do at Slickcity Studios.
Jombelek: What local African art forms are under-represented on the world stage but could gain international recognition through modern reinterpretation?
Malik: African traditions could gain international recognition through immersive technological interpretations. We strive to bring these experiences to a global audience while preserving their sacred nature, using technology to foster understanding rather than simply presenting them.

5. Social impact and empowerment

Jombelek: How do you empower local African communities through your art beyond visual representation?
Malik: Through C.E.L.S (Causes, Effects, Escapes and Solutions), we highlight problems using visual storytelling and actively find solutions. We also focus on youth education and mentoring in the fields of technology and creativity. Beyond visual representation, I believe in developing practical skills and creating opportunities for the next generation of African creators. This includes access to cutting-edge technology and training in digital storytelling."
Jombelek: What role do you see the African diaspora playing in reshaping Africa's creative economy?
Malik: The African diaspora is essential in connecting global technological innovations with local cultural contexts. My collaborations with international brands demonstrate how we can bring African perspectives to global platforms while maintaining authentic links with our heritage.

6. Industry challenges and opportunities

Jombelek: What has been your biggest challenge in breaking into the international creative industry while remaining rooted in Africa?
Malik: The biggest challenge has been maintaining an authentic African narrative while working with global technology platforms. I strive to overcome this challenge by ensuring that our stories and perspectives drive the technology, not the other way around. This approach has helped establish Slickcity Studios as a leader in authentic African digital storytelling.
Jombelek: What misconceptions do global audiences have about African creativity that you aim to challenge through your work?
Malik: Many still view African creativity through a limited prism of tradition versus modernity. My work, particularly projects like "The Elder Series", challenges this idea by showing how we can harmoniously combine cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology. We're proving that innovation and tradition are not mutually exclusive.
Jombelek: If you could create a collaborative project with any international artist, living or dead, who would you choose and why?
Malik: I would collaborate with pioneering global artists from all fields, combining their narrative wisdom with today's technological capabilities. This would create a powerful bridge between traditional African storytelling and modern digital innovation.7. Building futures and legacies
Jombelek: What role should African governments play in supporting the creative economy, and how can they avoid stifling its innovation?
Malik: African governments should create supportive infrastructures and education programs while allowing creative freedom. They need to invest in digital literacy and technical education while protecting intellectual property rights. This support should focus on enabling rather than controlling creative expression. And now, even more attention should be paid to AI and its regulation.
Jombelek: What advice would you give to young African artists trying to navigate both local expectations and global competition?
Malik: Stay rooted in your cultural identity while embracing global technologies. Success comes from authentically telling our stories using the tools most suited to storytelling, whether traditional or cutting-edge. Focus on developing strong technical skills while maintaining deep ties to your cultural roots.

Jombelek: Looking to the future, how would you like your art to influence the future narrative of Africa in global pop culture?
Malik: I want my art to show that African creativity is not just about the past or the present, but about imagining and creating new futures. Through my projects, I show how we can use technology to tell stories that challenge global perceptions while remaining true to our cultural essence. It's about creating a future where African perspectives are at the heart of global creative innovation.

In conclusion, Malik Afegbua's ideas highlight the profound impact of vision and resilience in today's dynamic landscape. His experiences underline the importance of adaptability and continuous learning to overcome challenges. As we navigate an ever-changing world, his story is a powerful reminder that determination and a clear purpose can lead to success. We thank Malik for sharing his journey and perspectives, and for encouraging others to adopt their unique paths. This conversation not only inspires, but also motivates us to strive for excellence in our efforts. We look forward to witnessing his continued contributions and achievements in the future.

Interview by Johanne Elie Ernest Ngo Mbelek Aka Jombelek
jombelek@gmail.com
Paris, December 29, 2024.