Africa is a continent overflowing with elegance, culture, and beauty but it is also heavily misrepresented. Social media apps like TikTok became a hub for cultural expression. Although, with the rise of TikTok and greater digital connection, the popularization and romanticization of cultures and lifestyles still did not include African countries or people. However, that is changing, and romanticizing Africa is a trend that is here to stay.
The Meaning of Romanticizing Africa
Romanticization is a term people use to showcase the beauty, vibrancy, and appeal of someone or something. Altogether, romanticizing Africa serves a crucial purpose: highlighting the continent’s charm, challenging stereotypes, and creating its own narrative and identity. At the heart of the trend is a desire to showcase Africa in a positive and realistic light. Specifically, to counter the decades of negative portrayal by mainstream media.
How It Is Important
Historically, the media showed Africa through a lens of poverty and conflict. The narrative often overshadowed its rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking people and landscapes. By romanticizing Africa, creators on platforms like TikTok aim to highlight its beauty, resilience, and complexity. This perspective offers a more nuanced narrative that celebrates its people and heritage.
Through this content, creators showcase the beauty in everyday life in African countries. For example, a video of a family with small children playing on the beach or a group of people shopping at the market elicits feelings of comfort and affection not always displayed. More importantly, African countries are just as beautiful and dynamic as others.
Three Creators Romanticizing Africa
@Travelandmunchies
Nadia, a med student and self-proclaimed foodie, creates content for @travelandmunchies. The food-focused TikTok page uplifts and shares recipes from across the diaspora. Specifically, she focuses on food from her homeland Ghana. She shares recipes for meals like bean stew, banku, and fried plantain. Her videos are well-shot, colorful, and extremely appealing. They bring life and romance to African cuisine.
@RomanticizingAfrica
The name says it all. The TikTok page @RomanticzingAfrica highlights African countries and captures everyday moments through a romantic lens. It is run by Maïmouna Elle, a creator based in Senegal, but currently visiting the Ivory Coast.
@ Joy.Malonza
Joy is a content creator focusing on ethical consumption and mindful travel. She travels to African countries and captures their essence of life and luxury. Most importantly, she advocates for the political and societal well being of the countries she visits while focusing on their beauty.