For centuries, African stories have often been told through external lenses, leading to distortion and misrepresentation. Today, a new generation of creators and thinkers is reclaiming that narrative — telling Africa’s stories in ways that reflect its diversity, resilience, and depth.

The Afrotellers Conference, now in its second edition, stands at the forefront of this movement. Taking place from October 23 to 25, 2025, across multiple venues in Johannesburg, the event gathers over 150 delegates from across Africa and the diaspora to share stories, poetry, theatre, and research on the power of African storytelling.

The conference opened with a moving performance by Sondlane Dube (SOX the Poet) and his mentee Lethi, setting the tone for three days of creativity, dialogue, and social impact. Notable participants include Dr. Refiloe Lepere, playwright and scholar; Gift Ostallos Siziba, Zimbabwean political organiser; and Prof. Sir Zanele Muholi, acclaimed visual activist.

Highlights include a fireside chat on “Artivism for Citizen-Centred Governance”, live performances by Bhanshee and SOX the Poet, and the “Our Stories, Our Voices, Our Power” exhibition curated by Thrive Afrika. The exhibition features works from Afrotellers Hubs in Kenya, Lesotho, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, celebrating storytelling as resistance, connection, and imagination.

“We believe the African story is best told through authentic voices that blend creativity with cultural identity,”
said Willson Chivhanga, CEO of Thrive Afrika and Founder of Afrotellers.

Through collaboration, art, and scholarship, the Afrotellers Conference continues to amplify African voices, reclaiming the power to tell Africa’s stories, on its own terms.