A new initiative aimed at strengthening sports storytelling in Africa will culminate in a creative summit set to take place from July 29 to August 2.
The summit forms part of ‘Voices in Motion’, a platform launched by Rolling Stone Africa and ON Kenya to support emerging storytellers documenting African sport.
Speaking during the launch, ON Kenya’s Navalayo Osembo said the initiative aims to help young creators develop the skills and networks needed to tell African sporting stories from local perspectives.
“Across Africa, we have extraordinary athletes whose achievements inspire millions, yet many of their journeys remain unseen,” said Navalayo Osembo from ON Kenya. “Through Voices in Motion, we are creating pathways for young creators to develop the skills, networks and opportunities needed to tell these stories authentically and powerfully. We believe that the future of sports storytelling in Africa should be shaped by Africans themselves.”
The programme was launched against the backdrop of growing calls for more African-led storytelling around the continent’s sporting achievements.
While Africa has produced some of the world’s most celebrated athletes, many of the stories behind their successes are often told through international media outlets.
Rolling Stone Africa Editor-in-Chief Gwen Madiba said storytelling plays an important role in shaping culture, preserving history and documenting the journeys behind athletic achievements.
“Every record broken, every sacrifice made and every triumph achieved deserves to be documented by storytellers who understand the communities and cultures from which these stories emerge. ‘Voices in Motion’ is about ensuring that Africa not only produces world-class athletes but also world-class storytellers capable of sharing these journeys with the world.”
Applications for the programme are expected to open to aspiring creatives from across Kenya. Successful applicants will gain access to mentorship opportunities, industry exposure and participation at the summit in July.
The launch event brought together leading creators, media personalities, athletes, journalists, and cultural influencers in a symbolic celebration of storytelling.
