Replacing sweeping, stale narratives. For far too long, a one-dimensional story defined by only poverty-stricken villages and tourist safaris—has dominated the narrative surrounding Africa. While African artists influenced the world for centuries over—their fashions emulated on European runways, their art pillaged by colonialists, their original melodies and beats set as the background to English lyrics on American albums—the world knew little of the setting that shaped so much of its own everyday experiences. At best, Africa’s creations have inspired. At worst, they have been seized without citing.
Fifty Four exists to shout from the rooftops what those within the African diaspora have known for so long: ours is a continent brimming with excellence and artistry. Behind everything we produce and print is a single, unwavering declaration: Now you see us. We cannot right wrongs or erase hurtful history—but we can represent ourselves without apology…and nothing has ever felt better.
Within Africa’s borders are 54 distinct countries—each with its own rich history and culture. This publication is devoted to sharing creations and creators from all 54 of these countries—as we take readers like you all around our continent, from the Cape to the Pyramids, from Morocco to Mozambique.
WE ARE AS DIVERSE AS THE DAY IS LONG, CONNECTED DESPITE BORDERS WE DID NOT DRAW. FIFTY FOUR CELEBRATES AFRICA’S BEAUTIFULLY DISTINCT REGIONS, WHILE HONOURING HER INHERENT ONENESS.
