![What’s In An Accent with Lupita Nyong’o [VIDEO]](https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts211/v4/35/b3/91/35b391ed-93e5-7dac-3c8c-8c745f4afc46/mza_7744198519946469214.jpg/400x400bb.jpg "What’s In An Accent with Lupita Nyong’o [VIDEO]")
What’s In An Accent with Lupita Nyong’o [VIDEO]
7Digest
Lupita Nyong'o, a renowned Kenyan-Mexican actress, shares her unique journey navigating the complexities of identity, accent, and cultural expectations as an African actress in Hollywood. She discusses her experiences with colorism, the importance of reclaiming African narratives, and the power of storytelling. The conversation delves into the inspiration behind her podcast "What Now," which aims to challenge Western perceptions of Africa and provide a platform for nuanced African stories. Nyong'o and Trevor Noah, a South African comedian and host, engage in a playful debate about which African nationality reigns supreme, highlighting cultural stereotypes and the importance of embracing one's heritage. They discuss the role of storytelling and connection within African communities, emphasizing the importance of intimate conversations and the role of coffee and tea in facilitating these exchanges. The conversation also explores the limitations of data and the importance of challenging preconceived notions about African stories and perspectives. Noah emphasizes the need for authentic representation and the power of individual narratives. Nyong'o reflects on her experiences with colorism and the importance of finding self-worth beyond external markers of identity. She credits her upbringing in Kenya for providing a sense of belonging and acceptance. Nyong'o and Noah discuss the importance of reclaiming one's sense of belonging and challenging limiting narratives. They emphasize the need for societies to embrace diversity and recognize the inherent value of all individuals. Nyong'o reflects on her career trajectory, highlighting her commitment to challenging expectations and pushing boundaries. She shares her vision for the future of "What Now" and her desire to popularize African perspectives on a global scale.
Outlines
Lupita Nyong'o's Journey: From Kenyan Roots to Global Stardom
Lupita Nyong'o discusses her unique journey as an African actress navigating the complexities of identity, accent, and cultural expectations. She shares her experiences with colorism, the importance of reclaiming African narratives, and the power of storytelling.
The Best Africans: A Lighthearted Debate
Lupita Nyong'o and Trevor Noah engage in a playful debate about which African nationality reigns supreme, highlighting cultural stereotypes and the importance of embracing one's heritage.
The Genesis of "What Now" Podcast
Lupita Nyong'o explains the inspiration behind her podcast "What Now," emphasizing her desire to create a platform for nuanced African stories and challenge Western perceptions of the continent.
The Power of Storytelling and Connection
Lupita Nyong'o and Trevor Noah discuss the importance of storytelling and connection, particularly within African communities. They highlight the role of coffee and tea in fostering intimate conversations and sharing personal experiences.
Data Lies and the Importance of Authenticity
Trevor Noah explores the limitations of data and the importance of challenging preconceived notions about African stories and perspectives. He emphasizes the need for authentic representation and the power of individual narratives.
Navigating Colorism and Self-Worth
Lupita Nyong'o reflects on her experiences with colorism and the importance of finding self-worth beyond external markers of identity. She credits her upbringing in Kenya for providing a sense of belonging and acceptance.
Reclaiming Belonging and Challenging Narratives
Lupita Nyong'o and Trevor Noah discuss the importance of reclaiming one's sense of belonging and challenging limiting narratives. They emphasize the need for societies to embrace diversity and recognize the inherent value of all individuals.
The Evolution of Lupita Nyong'o's Journey
Lupita Nyong'o reflects on her career trajectory, highlighting her commitment to challenging expectations and pushing boundaries. She shares her vision for the future of "What Now" and her desire to popularize African perspectives on a global scale.
Keywords
African Diaspora
The communities of people of African descent living outside of the African continent, often facing challenges of identity, cultural preservation, and representation.
Colorism
Prejudice or discrimination based on the lightness or darkness of a person's skin tone, often prevalent within communities of color.
Storytelling
The art of sharing narratives, experiences, and perspectives, often serving as a powerful tool for cultural preservation, understanding, and connection.
Reclaiming Narratives
The act of taking back control of one's story and challenging dominant narratives that often misrepresent or marginalize certain groups.
Global Curiosity
A desire to explore and understand different cultures, perspectives, and experiences beyond one's own immediate surroundings.
Data Lie
The idea that data can be misleading or incomplete, failing to capture the full complexity of human experiences and societal dynamics.
Authenticity
The quality of being true to oneself and one's experiences, often valued in storytelling and representation.
Belonging
The feeling of being accepted, valued, and connected to a community or place, often essential for individual well-being and societal harmony.
Q&A
What inspired Lupita Nyong'o to create her podcast "What Now"?
Lupita Nyong'o wanted to create a platform for nuanced African stories and challenge Western perceptions of the continent. She aimed to popularize African perspectives and provide a space for authentic representation.
How does Lupita Nyong'o navigate the complexities of her identity as an African actress in Hollywood?
Lupita Nyong'o acknowledges the challenges of colorism and cultural expectations but emphasizes the importance of finding self-worth beyond external markers of identity. She credits her upbringing in Kenya for providing a sense of belonging and acceptance.
What is the significance of storytelling within African communities?
Storytelling plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, fostering connection, and sharing personal experiences. Lupita Nyong'o and Trevor Noah highlight the importance of intimate conversations and the role of coffee and tea in facilitating these exchanges.
How does Lupita Nyong'o's podcast challenge limiting narratives about Africa?
Lupita Nyong'o's podcast aims to challenge preconceived notions about Africa by showcasing the diversity, humor, and resilience of African communities. She emphasizes the importance of authentic representation and the power of individual narratives.
What is the importance of reclaiming one's sense of belonging?
Reclaiming one's sense of belonging is essential for individual well-being and societal harmony. Lupita Nyong'o and Trevor Noah discuss the need for societies to embrace diversity and recognize the inherent value of all individuals.
How does Lupita Nyong'o's journey inspire others to embrace their own unique identities?
Lupita Nyong'o's journey demonstrates the power of challenging expectations, pushing boundaries, and embracing one's authentic self. She encourages others to find their voice and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse world.
Show Notes
Lupita Nyong’o joins Trevor and Christiana to discuss her new podcast and its colorful stories of the African diaspora. The three also discuss their multifaceted identities, why Lupita refuses to expect rejection, and get into a debate for the ages–can they crown a “best” African country.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Table of contents
United States
