Unicorn Blog - The Power of Stories

Have you seen the Power of Stories exhibition at Christchurch Mansion yet? Hopefully, you have or plan to attend but in the meantime, let me tell you why it’s important to me. 

I was excited and nervous to be asked to do an interview for BBC Look East about my love of marvel, The Black Panther film and the costumes coming to Ipswich. Excited because I appreciate the workmanship of the film and marvel storytelling. Love the intricate world of Marvel, sometimes it takes it too far with alternative universes and it’s hard to follow but if you love storytelling Marvel is epic. 

The Black Panther film means so much to me as it was one of the first high profile superhero films to feature a predominantly black cast. However, it’s a story of an African Royal, which I am as a Nigerian princess but more importantly, it’s a close reflection of the Nigeria/Africa that I see. One where it’s a mix of tradition and innovation, old and new, poor and rich all in one space. I’m very sensitive to the representation of African countries in the media and in films. I grew up in two countries and two cultures but one is constantly seen as desert, famine and devastation.  Or you hear Nigerians are scammers ( even though the scamming emails come from Kenya or South African gangs posing as Nigerian using that bad reputation) Yes Africa is those things but it’s not ALL that it is. It’s a place of hope and innovation and excellence but for some reason those traits are ignored. That is why the Black Panther film is soo on point to me. It’s a celebration of black culture and a reflection of hope, vibrant colour, tech. It draws on up to 30 different African cultures represented in the film and it makes me so happy to share what I’ve seen for years. 

Black Panther is in many ways a love letter to black culture. Africa has traditionally been an unsophisticated bit player in the media, often portrayed as backward, savage, and chaotic in everything from news coverage to films. It’s a portrayal that has left little room for other interpretations, which is why Black Panther’s vision of Wakanda as a bustling metropolis of vibranium-powered futuristic skyscrapers, racing trains, and soaring spaceships feels so refreshing.

Stories are so powerful as they help our development and growth. Through stories, I learnt about who I am, my history and shaped my future.  I also learnt about how to be a good person myself, and the consequences of crappy behaviour. Stories shaped my identity growing up, and continue to do so which is why it’s so important to me to have positive stories that celebrate black culture out there. When you elevate and amplify stories you inspire others to do the same and live their lives gloriously.

Now go and share in this celebration and look at the exhibition. There you will see a community-curated exhibition that shares stories of the Ipswich community as well as award-winning costumes. 

Wakanda Forever,

Remi