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Hi! My name is Ziyaad, also known as Awali. Some of you may know me as the host of Season 1 ofComic Con Africa’s Anime Manga Otaku, but I am also the writer, illustrator and overall creator of Siri Watu: Descendants of Africa, the Bonzo/Afro-manga series (I am told the first of its kind in South Africa). Siri Watu follows four teenagers that inherited supernatural abilities from a secret empire of people forced into exile long ago. Hated! Betrayed! Hunted! It ultimately asks the question, if your people were taken from you, what would you do to regain them? This is my story, this is my journey in making Siri Watu a household name and becoming South Africa’s Number 1 Afro-Mangaka. Join me.
This session at Otaku Town features the work of Ziyaad Rahman, a key figure in the Afromanga movement. Rahman is the creator of "Siri Watu," his manga series that exemplifies the fusion of African storytelling with Japanese manga-style artistry. During this 25-minute session, Rahman will share his experiences, artistic process, and the cultural significance of his work, particularly focusing on "Siri Watu." His insights provide attendees with a deep understanding of how African narratives and visual traditions are reimagined through manga-inspired art. Rahman's participation offers a firsthand look at the creative process behind Afromanga. His work, especially "Siri Watu," stands as a testament to the global influence of manga and its unique interpretation through an African lens. This event promises an engaging exploration of Rahman's contribution to this exciting intersection of artistic styles.
Explore the exciting intersection of anime fandom and content creation in this engaging panel discussion! Join a diverse group of anime enthusiasts and content creators as they dive into the world of anime-inspired media. Discover how these creators blend their love for anime with their own unique perspectives to produce captivating content across various platforms. From cosplay and fan art to video essays and podcasts, learn about the myriad ways fans are expressing their passion and building communities around their favorite series. This session will offer insights into the creative process, tips for aspiring content creators, and discussions on the impact of fan-created content on the anime industry. Whether you're a budding creator or simply curious about the evolving landscape of anime fandom, this panel promises to inspire and inform!