In a decisive move to bridge creativity and activism, the ONE Campaign has launched its Diaspora Creative Council, a first-of-its-kind collective of African and diaspora artists, athletes and cultural influencers united by a shared mission: to use their platforms to shape narratives, spark opportunity and drive social and economic transformation across Africa.
This landmark initiative signals a new phase in ONE’s twenty-year journey of advocacy and influence, one that places culture, storytelling and creativity at the heart of development and policy change.
“We can’t talk about global change without culture at the table,” said Jibolu Ayodele, Founder and Managing Partner of The Playmaker Group. “This Council is proof that when art and advocacy intersect, we can reach new audiences and inspire the next generation to believe in Africa’s limitless potential.”
A Cultural Movement with Purpose
Founded in 2004 by activists and global leaders, the ONE Campaign has long championed investment in Africa’s economic growth, health and human capital. Its latest venture, the Diaspora Creative Council, extends that vision into the creative economy, drawing upon the global influence of African and diaspora voices to shift how the world views Africa and how Africans perceive themselves.
Through this Council, ONE aims to amplify cultural storytelling that spotlights innovation, builds bridges between the continent and its global diaspora and mobilises millions toward shared goals of opportunity and equity.
“I am grateful to be joining a group of creatives from across Africa and the Diaspora who have the same passion to change the narrative about Africa by using their creativity,” said Charity Ekezie, Nigerian content creator and brand influencer.
The Powerhouse Council Members
The Diaspora Creative Council brings together a distinguished group of innovators from film, music, sports, technology and activism each using their influence to elevate Africa’s story.
Among them:
- Danai Gurira (Zimbabwe/USA) – Actress, playwright, producer and founder of Love Our Girls; co-founder of Almasi Arts.
- Chiney Ogwumike (Nigeria/USA) – Two-time WNBA All-Star, ESPN broadcaster and founder of The Victorious Company, advocating for mentorship and representation.
- Patoranking (Nigeria) – Award-winning musician, humanitarian, and UNDP Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Africa, known for his philanthropic focus on youth empowerment.
- Alexis Belton (USA) – Professional golfer, media personality and founder of Belton Drive, promoting youth and sports development.
- Barkue Tubman-Zawolo (Liberia/USA) – Global strategist, founder of MBL Intl Group and Power WalkHer Global 25, and Chief Community Officer at Essence Ventures.
- Gwen Madiba (Gabon/Canada) – Founder of Equal Chance and Editor-in-Chief of Rolling Stone Africa.
- Danielle Alakija (Nigeria/UK) – Olympic athlete and CEO of The SOLI Group, advocating for diversity in global business.
- Kiara Nirghin (USA) – Co-founder at Chima, a Gen Z technologist recognised for her innovation in science and STEM advocacy.
- Charity Ekezie (Nigeria) – Content Creator and Brand Influencer.
- Munya Chanetsa (Zimbabwe/South Africa) – Founder of Masters of the Industry (M.O.T.I), focused on elevating African music and talent management.
- Martins Imhangbe (Nigeria/UK) – Acclaimed actor known for his stage and screen work.
- Ego Nwodim (Nigeria/USA) – Comedian and actress inspiring global audiences through humor and representation.
- Jibolu Ayodele (Nigeria/USA) – Founder and Managing Partner, The Playmaker Group.
- Nikki Amuka-Bird (Nigeria/UK) – Multi-award-winning actress and creative ambassador for African storytelling.
- Pops Mensah-Bonsu (Ghana/UK) – Former NBA player, Founder & CEO of Sankofa Seven, and President of Seed Academy, advancing youth leadership through sport.
Together, these figures represent a new class of cultural capital, one that merges art, influence and activism into a force for tangible progress.
Advocacy Meets Creativity
The Council’s work will build on ONE’s core advocacy pillars, that is health, education, entrepreneurship and economic opportunity. By integrating pop culture and creative storytelling into campaigns that mobilise both policymakers and the public.
From digital storytelling to grassroots initiatives, the aim is to use creativity as a lever for systemic change. The Council will also serve as a strategic think tank, advising on campaigns that highlight the innovation, resilience and leadership emerging from Africa’s creative and entrepreneurial sectors.
ONE’s impact over two decades speaks volumes. The organisation has influenced billions in global aid commitments, fought for debt relief and championed access to healthcare and education. With over 25 million actions taken by citizens globally, ONE’s network has evolved into one of the world’s most trusted advocacy movements now expanding its reach through culture and creativity.
By combining artistic influence with evidence-based advocacy, ONE is reimagining how development stories are told, moving away from narratives of need and toward those of innovation, excellence and shared purpose.
The Diaspora Creative Council stands as both symbol and strategy: a coalition of thinkers and doers bridging continents through creativity. Their collective voice amplifies what ONE has long believed: that Africa’s future is not defined by limitations, but by limitless possibilities.
