Shades of Us
'Shades of Us' reviews art created by Africans and people of African descent, covering music, movies, TV shows, albums, and books. Each episode explores and celebrates the diverse creative expressions from the African diaspora. The podcast offers insightful critiques and recommendations to its listeners.
Episodes
Screens, Silence, and Shame
Abusers have evolved, using digital media and artificial intelligence to perpetuate new forms of gender-based violence. We discuss why young Africans should become advocates for safer online spaces in this podcast episode. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.
Lessons 12: Cyberbullying Awareness and Mental Health Support
Cyberbullying, the use of digital platforms to harass, intimidate, or harm others, is a growing concern. We discuss why young Africans should become advocates for mental well-being, champions of online kindness, and supporters of those in need in this podcast episode. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written –
Lesson 11: Drug Avoidance and Violence Prevention
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that drug avoidance and violence prevention are keys to development. In lesson eleven of our 12-part series, we explore why young Africans must recognize the perils of drug addiction.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Lesson 10: Resilience and Adaptability
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that resilience and adaptability are keys to development. In lesson ten of our 12-part series, we explore resilience as the capacity to withstand and recover from challenges faced by African youth.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Lesson 9: Leadership and Responsibility
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that leadership and responsibility are keys to development. In lesson nine of our 12-part series, we explore why young Africans should lead with honesty, transparency, and integrity.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Lesson 8: Financial Literacy
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that financial literacy is the key to development. In lesson eight of our 12-part series, we explore the importance of long-term financial planning, including saving for retirement and building generational wealth.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written –
Lesson 6: Environmental Stewardship
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that environmental stewardship is the key to development. In lesson six of our 12-part series, we explore why young Africans should be at the forefront of climate action.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shade
Lesson 7: Gender Equality
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that gender equality is the key to development. In lesson seven of our 12-part series, we explore why young Africans should be aware of the intersectionality of gender with other forms of discrimination, such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read i
Lesson 5: Entrepreneurship and Innovation
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that entrepreneurship and innovation is the key to development. In lesson five of our 12-part series, we explore why entrepreneurship and innovation are the engines of progress for Africa's youth.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Lesson 4: Critical Thinking Matters
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that critical thinking matters. In lesson four of our 12-part series, we explore why the ability to dissect these issues critically is essential. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org.
Lesson 3: Education is Empowerment
A major lesson for young African youth is the reminder that education is empowerment. In lesson three of our 12-part series, we explore why education empowers individuals to become leaders, advocates, and agents of transformation. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting sh
Lesson 2: Preserve Indigenous Knowledge
A major lesson for young African youth is a call to preserve and cherish indigenous knowledge. In lesson two of our 12-part series, we explore why African youth need the preservation of our indigenous knowledge to drive positive change across the continent.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Lesson 1: Embrace Cultural Diversity
Embracing cultural diversity means actively engaging with the world around us. In lesson one of our 12-part series, we explore why African youth need to embrace cultural diversity to drive positive change across the continent.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofu
Ending Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence against women has become a disease that has been permitted to stay. We discuss why must reiterate that women are human beings first and, thus, equal to men.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, t
How Men Can Reduce Gender Inequality
Men tend to hold higher positions in many societies, especially in countries like Nigeria, where patriarchy is widespread. We discuss why gender equality can only be achieved when everyone comes together to challenge the status quo. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shad
Why Is Gender-Based Violence Prevalent?
In Western Africa, more than 60% of women experience some form of violence or harassment in their lifetimes. We discuss why this has weakened our societal and family institutions, causing widespread distrust between men and women.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesof
Workplace Harassment and Ending GBV
Workplace harassment and violence against women remain a pressing issue worldwide, cutting across industries, professions, and cultural divides. We discuss why collective action is needed for a future of dignity, safety, and equality in the workplace.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Power Outages and Maternal Health
Women in Africa face a range of challenges when it comes to accessing quality healthcare, and power outages only exacerbate these challenges. We discuss why improving access to reliable electricity can ensure that African women in Africa give birth safely and with dignity.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have writt
You Are The Change
It is easy to think that being the change means you have to do something big or dramatic. We discuss why real change starts in the small, often unnoticed moments. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are way
Healing Through Stories
Victims of domestic violence often struggle with feelings of isolation and shame. Breaking the silence is a vital step toward healing. We discuss why sharing your experiences with someone you trust can bring clarity in this podcast. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofu
The Rise of 'Ritual' Killings
A chilling aspect of ritual killings is their connection to the illegal organ trade. Ritualists often harvest organs from their victims, which are then sold on the black market. We share what we can do to stop these wanton murders in this podcast. This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
African Mothers Deserve Better
Addressing maternal mortality in Africa is not merely a health challenge: it is a moral imperative that demands our unwavering commitment. We share what we can do to stop maternal mortality in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At
Toxic Beauty
The widespread use of toxic chemicals in beauty and personal care products not only threatens individual health but also undermines global efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We share why this needs to stop in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by
Worsening Recession in Nigeria
There is a widening gap between the rich and poor: as if the gap wasn’t wide enough already. Soon enough, we may not have a middle class in this country, and the poor will have even worse straits than they do now. We share why this needs to stop in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by v
Digital Harassment
Cyberbullying is a pervasive issue in today's digital age, with far-reaching consequences for mental health. The constant harassment and humiliation inflicted online can erode a person's self-esteem and sense of worth, exacerbating existing mental health conditions or precipitating new ones. We share why this needs to stop in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the
Using Storytelling to Address SGBV
Storytelling is a great tool to address socio-economic issues in society. Shades of Us uses storytelling to educate our community about sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). We share how we do this in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org.
Sparing the Koboko
If we were trained properly by our parents and the nation is still a mess, how much more horrible will this nation be if children are not properly trained? Would basic respect be stripped in public and shamed to the gory delight of all onlookers? We share more in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have
Sex...And How Our Parents Lied to Us
Sex is still the most exciting topic to talk about: from the loud guffaws of Casanovas to the muted whispers of belles, sex cannot be easily shrugged off. Parents need to start spilling the truth because every lie their child discovers on their own reduces their credibility as parents. We share more in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You
Reproductive Health for Black Women
The consequences of restricted access to reproductive health services are starkly evident in maternal mortality rates. This disparity is exacerbated in states with stringent reproductive health laws, where access to comprehensive care is limited. We share more in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have
Rape Cases
Rape is a crime against the humanity of the victim. Sometimes, these victims become survivors. Other times, they never heal from the trauma. However, at no time is a rape the fault of the survivor. It begs to be repeated.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the
Maternal Health in Africa
In many African countries, maternal mortality rates remain among the highest globally. Addressing these challenges is not just a matter of health equity but a fundamental human rights issue.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are w
Mental Health Services in the Workplace
We share why mental health services help foster an inclusive and encouraging work atmosphere.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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To Africans In Countries That Don't Want Them
Why do Africans go to other countries when they are not wanted there? Why risk mob action, police brutality, racial or xenophobic discrimination, robbery, and even death?
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways t
Overwhelmed Mothers
There are many overwhelmed mothers raising one too many children. How can we get parents to space their birth so they are better able to deal with raising each of their children properly?
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, t
Combating Poverty Amidst Economic Challenges
Now more than ever, we must come together as a global community to tackle poverty head-on, addressing its root causes and implementing sustainable solutions that uplift the most marginalized among us. We share more in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.
The Role of African Literature in Social Enlightenment
As you delve into the pages of African novels, you become a time traveler, journeying through the complex history of the continent. We share why literature can contribute to social enlightenment in this episode.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end
Return That Shame
In Africa, there is this expectation that anything outside of the norm is shameful and a mark of failure! Societal expectations are often a double-edged sword. We discuss why people need to find themselves to effectively contribute to life and development.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting
Embracing Happiness
Happiness is the light that leads us home in a world that frequently seems dark and unclear. What is happiness to you?
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Nurturing Minds: The Link Between Education and Mental Health
It is quite easy to overlook the profound connection between education and mental health. Yet, the truth is that the two are inseparable, each influencing and shaping the other in a delicate dance. We share more in 'Nurturing Minds: The Link Between Education and Mental Health'.This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have
Don't Ask Me When I Am Getting Married
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye shares the pressures that come with being unmarried and how she responds to people who make her decisions their business.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discu
Building Peaceful Societies
A peaceful society allows for equal access to education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), and reduced disparities (SDG 10). Justice guarantees that no one is left behind, helping to eradicate poverty (SDG 1) and promoting ethical consumption and production (SDG 12).
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written –
Revolutionizing Freedom, Equality and Justice
To attain true equality, we must adopt a more sophisticated understanding – one that respects and accommodates diversity. This is referred to as ‘equity’. We share more on why we must revolutionize freedom, equality, and justice.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org.
Tackling Poverty in Africa for a Sustainable Future
'No Poverty' isn't just a global goal on paper: it is a shared vision for a brighter future for all Africans. In the quest to achieve 'No Poverty' in Africa, progress is undeniable, but challenges remain. Shades of Us shares why creating awareness and contributing to activities that help tackle poverty in Africa and among African people is critical.
This conversation was first
Green Skills for Youth Paving the Path to Sustainability
Green skills encompass a wide range of abilities that are essential for understanding, mitigating, and solving environmental challenges. We share why we believe this is critical for young people paving the pathway to sustainability.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org.
Friendship
Friendship is the universal bond that links souls together. We share why friendships matter in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Partnering Beyond Limits
When different actors with diverse experiences and perspectives come together, they can shed new light on old problems. We share more on partnerships in this podcast.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would
Striking the Balance for Labor Rights and Fair Wage Policies
We share why labor rights and fair wage is important to national, regional, and communal growth and development.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Eliminating Hepatitis in Africa
We share why Hepatitis is a silent killer in Africa and what steps are necessary to eliminate the disease among Africans and people of African descent.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discus
Promoting Sustainable Fashion and Design Skills
We share why promoting sustainable fashion and design skills among African youth is a crucial step towards building a more durable and ethical fashion industry.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like
Why We Should Refine Our Speech
We share why speaking well is a constant journey to perfection in speech.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofus.co.uk. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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The Unfairness of Marriage
We share why marriage can be unfair to women, and why women must consider all the intricacies of this union before committing themselves to it.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this f
The Weird One Out
We share why being different - termed weird, even - may not be so bad after all.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Patching Things Up
We share our thoughts on patching things and how it can worsen situations rather than fix them.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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On Flawed Leadership and Stunted Growth
We share our thoughts on flawed leadership and how it can cause stunted growth for followers.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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A Culture of Filth
We share our thoughts on open disposal of waste, and the ripple effects on individuals, communities and the nation at large.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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(Mis)Diagnosing Depression
We share our thoughts on depression and the idea that it is mostly misdiagnosed.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Ripple Effects of Poverty: Hunger
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye shares why she thinks hunger negates a person’s dignity.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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I have An Idea About Prison Reforms
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye shares what she thinks can be done to decongest Nigerian prisons in what could be a great inter-government agency collaboration.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss
Pay That Money!
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye talks about bad debtors and why they shouldn't wait to be asked to pay what they owe.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Demographic Dividends Through Communication
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye shares how communication (through social media) can help governments achieve demographic dividends.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Bleeding Trees
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye shares her sadness at the loss of some trees.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
Facebook: Shades of Us.
Twitter: Shades of Us.
LinkedIn: Shades of Us
My Inspiration Wall
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye shares a backstory of the women who have inspired her life and career path, and why they are important in her journey.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this furth
Cancel Culture
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye discusses cancel culture, and the balance between its harmful and beneficial aspects.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Addressing Workplace Harassment
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye discusses harassment in the work place, and processes to follow to ensure harassers are properly checked.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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When No One is Looking
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye discusses the burnout that comes with activism and the dilemma between choosing to quit and trudging on.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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The God Complex of the Old
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye discusses the relationship between the old and the young...and why the dynamics needs to change..
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
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Wife to be Auditions
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye discusses the practice of 'auditioning' women who want to get married by the family and friends of the prospective groom.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discus
A Rookie's Mistake
Ramatu Ada Ochekliye discusses the mistakes she has made while trying to make films, and how these mistakes will make her a better film maker.
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this fu
'Silent Treatment' May Not Be About You
This conversation was first posted in article form on the Shades of Us blog. You can read it – and other articles we have written – by visiting shadesofusafrica.org. At the end of this podcast, there are ways to reach us if you would like to discuss this further.
Facebook: Shades of Us.
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