Africa's Past, Present, and Future

Our Africa's New Wave package celebrates the rich culture and impact of the globe's demographically youngest continent. Through a series of visual stories, we're unpacking the gravity of Africa's history and influence on the world and why it needs to be looked to as a source of inspiration for radical youth-focused change.

Tina Tona

When we think about youth culture, The Continent immediately comes to mind. Africa has the youngest population of any continent, with the median age being about 19 years old. And despite being the oldest inhabited region of the world and enduring centuries of colonial corruption and occupation, generation after generation of Africans have created a rich, extraordinary legacy. Gen Z'ers, in particular, are evolving that legacy, unapologetically changing the way the world perceives them while also building a brighter future. They are waking up the world to the beauty and complexities of being a young African.

Africa is not a monolith: It contains 54 countries, is divided into eight general regions, and cannot be defined by one aesthetic. The purpose of this package is to shine a spotlight on what’s happening in this exceptional place across the Atlantic Ocean. Whether it's student-led movements, LGBTQ+ rights, or a music renaissance the world is loving, there are limitless subjects to unpack.

Our first stop is Lagos, the bustling metropolitan city of Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, where Afrobeats is gaining global attention. Artists Ayra Starr, Bnxn, and Victony are three young talents who were heavily inspired by their musical predecessors, but are also bringing unique flavor to the genre. Twenty-six years after Afrobeats founder Fela Kuti passed, they are intentionally making music with a message that young Nigerians can relate to.

Stephen Tayo

While in Nigeria, we also address — and offer an explainer on — the youth-led mobilization against police brutality and political corruption. In that vein, UC Irvine professor Samar Al-Bulushi provides us with a history of US military intervention in Africa and how it has destabilized several countries across the continent.

Writer Bolaji Akinwande speaks with queer Africans about their lived experiences in places that have extreme antigay laws, such as Uganda, Botswana, and Cameroon. And we've included a powerful op-ed from activist and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Vanessa Nakate about how climate emergencies are being addressed in East Africa.

In addition, we cover street style trends, and close things on a fashionable note with features on Ghanaian singer Amaarae, a new e-marketplace everyone is talking about, and 54 fashion designers you should know.

With this collection of work, Teen Vogue walks you through Africa’s past, present, and future. Our intent is to illuminate what it means to be young, aspirational, inspirational, and African. Please enjoy.