In the latest episode of Creative Development with IFC, host Makhtar Diop is in conversation with renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Celebrated for her award-winning books and impactful talks, Chimamanda delves into gender dynamics in African societies, the influence of colonial histories on women's narratives, and the crucial work of reframing African stories. From universality to feminism, this episode explores the rich complexity of African identity and storytelling through the lens of one of the continent’s leading literary voices.

In today's episode of Creative Development with IFC Makhtar Diop sits down with the incredible Nadia Nadim. Born in Afghanistan and having fled to Denmark as a refugee, Nadia's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. She has played for top-tier football teams like Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and the Danish national women's team; mastered nine languages; and is a doctor specializing in reconstructive surgery. As a UNESCO Champion for Girls' and Women's education, Nadia shares her insights on overcoming adversity, the power of education, and the importance of equal opportunities in sports and beyond.

In the latest episode of Creative Development with IFC, Makhtar Diop interviews Kwesi Botchway, an inspiring young artist from Accra, Ghana. Influenced by both African and Western art traditions, Kwesi's bold and colorful portraits have earned global acclaim for their profound depiction of blackness and afro-impressionism. In a compelling discussion Makhtar and Kwesi discuss the challenges African artists face, the need for better infrastructure, policies and support, and Kwesi's efforts to mentor the next generation.

In the latest episode of Creative Development with IFC, host Makhtar Diop takes a deep dive into ocean conservation and environmental storytelling with award-winning filmmaker and global sustainability ambassador, Craig Leeson. Craig shares his journey from exploring the beaches of Tasmania to producing impactful documentaries like 'A Plastic Ocean' and 'The Last Glaciers.' In a conversation that spans film, finance, and the path toward a sustainable future, Makhtar and Craig highlight the urgent need for collective action to protect our planet's precious ecosystems.

In this episode of Creative Development with IFC, Makhtar Diop revisits the heyday of the late 70’s fusion and electro-pop era with trailblazing keyboardist and synth pioneer Wally Badarou. Wally shares his unique journey from a family of Beninese doctors to his prolific work as a session musician and composer with English groups like Level 42, Mick Jagger, Grace Jones, and many others. Reflecting on his upbringing in both Africa and France, Wally discusses his deep-rooted passion for music and technology, along with his ongoing advocacy for the rights of music composers in an era of digital production.

Join Makhtar Diop and prominent ocean advocate Alexandra Cousteau in a captivating conversation that is both a reckoning with the damage done to our oceans, and a solutions-driven call to action around how we can save them. The granddaughter of legendary oceanographer and explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Alexandra shares how she is continuing the family legacy with a focus on rebuilding and restoring ocean abundance through innovative strategies and solutions.

“Creative Development with IFC” marks International Women's Day with the legendary Barbara Hendricks. Join host Makhtar Diop as he explores Barbara’s journey from the segregated southern USA to the world’s most prestigious opera stages. Beyond the notes, Barbara unveils her passionate work as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and the profound influence of human rights on her life's mission. A voice for the voiceless, Barbara shares lessons in embracing humanitarian action and the importance of women's inclusion in decision-making amid today's complex challenges.

Clarification at 20:25: #IBelong is a UNHCR campaign that aims to end statelessness by identifying and protecting stateless people, resolving existing situations of statelessness and preventing the emergence of new cases. Learn more at https://www.unhcr.org/ibelong