Senegal is about to be in the spotlight of international cinema with the shooting of the biopic film dedicated to Akon, a world-famous artist whose journey embodies both the success of the African diaspora and the new forms of influence of the continent. Directed by David SereroThe film aims to trace the exceptional itinerary of a man who has become a cultural, entrepreneurial and philanthropic icon over the years. In this exclusive interview given to Diplomatika, the director gives us his vision of the project, his perspective on the role of culture in international relations and his perception of the African potential for cultural diplomacy.
David Serero with Akon
1. Akon is much more than’a music star; it has become a world figure associated with the’Africa. Why did you choose to tell your story today’Today?
Akon is one of the most influential African personalities of his generation. Everyone knows his songs, but few people really know his career, his family history, his Senegalese roots and how they shaped the man he became.
I chose to tell her story today because she far exceeds the music. It's the story of a child from Senegal who has become an international superstar, but has never forgotten where he comes from. In a world where positive models are essential, Akon embodies success, perseverance, ambition and attachment to its origins. His journey deserves to be passed on to new generations, in Africa as elsewhere.
2. The filming of this biopic is currently taking place in Dakar with artistic figures like Youssou Ndour. What role does Senegal play in building the’identificationand international outreach d’Akon?
Senegal is at the heart of Akon's history. Even though he grew up between several cultures, his profound identity is deeply Senegalese. His family, education, values and vision of the world are intimately linked to Senegal.
The film shows that Akon's international success has never been built in opposition to its roots, but thanks to them. Senegal gave him a cultural and human strength that accompanied him throughout his career.
The participation of emblematic personalities such as Youssou Ndour It is particularly important because it allows Akon to be placed in Senegalese cultural continuity. Senegal has long been a great cultural and musical nation. Through Akon, it is also the story of Senegal's influence on the world stage that is told.
3. ConsiderDo you have this film as a simple film project or as a tool of cultural diplomacy capable of strengthening the’image of l’Africa to l’International?
I see it clearly as both.
It is not only a film film but also a great tool for cultural diplomacy. For too long, Africa has often been told by external eyes. Here we tell the story of an African who conquered the world while remaining proud of its origins.
Akon is a natural ambassador of Africa. His journey shows a creative, ambitious, innovative and forward-looking Africa. Cinema has the power to change perceptions, and I believe that this film will help to present a fairer and more inspiring image of the African continent to the international public. America has Superman, Africa has Akon!
4. Through route d’Akon, what lessons do you want to share on the relationship between African diaspora, continent development and global influence?
One of the great lessons of Akon's journey is that there is no contradiction between international success and commitment to its roots.
Akon has become a world star, but he has always sought to maintain a strong link with Africa. Its history shows that the African diaspora is an extraordinary force for the development of the continent. African talents around the world can contribute to the cultural, economic and social spread of Africa.
The film's message is simple: one can succeed at the highest level worldwide while remaining deeply attached to his country of origin. Akon embodies this bridge between Africa and the rest of the world.
5. In your opinion, what impact could this biopic have on the perception of’Africa by international audiences and on the development of African talent in the’world entertainment industry?
I hope that this film will remind the world that Africa is not just a market or a topical subject; It is also an immense source of creativity, talent and universal stories.
Akon's journey demonstrates that an African artist can influence world culture, collaborate with the greatest stars and make a lasting mark on the entertainment industry.
I also hope that this film will inspire young African talent. Akon is proof that it is possible to start a strong African heritage and build a world career without abandoning its identity. Its history is a source of hope and confidence for a whole generation.
Conclusion question
In a context où cultural industries become soft power instruments, do you think l’Africa has’how to tell her great stories to the world?
Yeah, more than ever.
Africa has talent, artists, creators, technicians and, above all, stories. I had the pleasure of filming today Positive Black Soul, with DJ Awadi and Duggy-T, with whom Akon started. They are the pioneers of Senegalese rap and historical figures whose stories must be told and especially celebrated. What is changing today is that the continent has more and more tools to produce, finance and disseminate its own stories worldwide.
Akon's international success shows that African stories are of interest to the whole world when they are told with authenticity.
We are at a historic moment when Africa can speak with its own voice. My film about Akon is part of this dynamic. Beyond the story of an exceptional man, it is also the story of a continent that affirms its place in world culture and shows that its greatest stories remain to be told.
