'MODELE

‘modele is an African word of Yoruba extraction. It is a shortened version of the phrase “omo de ile” which means “the child got home”.

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The representation of Africa on western media is mostly a single story - one of poverty, disease, and medieval period living. Many in the USA believe that Africans still indeed live on trees, and walk naked. This level of ignorance exists because that is the image they have heard and known about Africa all their lives.

This representation has significant implications for African-Americans in particular. If one is made to believe that one’s roots are from a backward, and non-progressive continent, it is easier to convince one that one is incapable of doing great things. Without pride in one’s roots and ancestry, the result is confusion, identity-crisis, and perhaps anger, and low self-esteem.

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'modele's vision is to re-write the African narrative in America and create a bridge between African-Americans and Africa, thereby restoring ancestral pride and creating a cultural renaissance among African Americans.