Intro

Setting the Stage for a Royal Guest

The Royal Name and Its Significance

From Minority to Majority: A Transformative

Navigating Cultural Identity in Nigeria and

The Biafra Conflict: A Hidden Legacy

Language as a Powerful Tool

Boarding School Adventures

Identity Crisis in London

Challenging the "Chitlin's Mentality"

The "Chitlin's Mentality" and Self-Perception

The Power of Representation in Storytelling

United Kingdom: A Hidden Gem of African

The Challenges of Telling Diverse Stories in

The Birth of MANSa: A Platform for Diverse

The Importance of Authentic Representation in

The Impact of Media on Perception and

The Journey of Bas Rutten: From Rejection to

David Oyelowo joins One54 Africa for a conversation about identity, family, faith, Hollywood, and the stories that shape culture. The acclaimed actor, producer, director, and founder of Mansa reflects on his Nigerian roots, explaining the royal history behind the Oyelowo name, growing up between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, and how returning to Nigeria as a child transformed his confidence and sense of belonging. He shares how his father’s Yoruba heritage and his mother’s Igbo background came together during a time of deep division following the Nigerian Civil War, revealing the remarkable love story that led his parents to leave Nigeria and start a new life in England.

David opens up about navigating life as a young Black student in London after returning from Nigeria, dealing with bullying, and being labeled a “coconut.” He also shares unforgettable boarding school stories, including secretly understanding Yoruba while pretending he couldn’t speak it, and the hilarious chain of events that led to him dating twins at the same time.

He discusses the making of A United Kingdom, why the true story resonated so deeply with him, and how the film challenged historical narratives about race, love, leadership, and colonialism. He explains why he spent years fighting to get Selma made, why portraying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. became one of the defining experiences of his career, and how projects like Bass Reeves, Queen of Katwe, and A United Kingdom were driven by a desire to expand the stories audiences see about Black people around the world.

The Hollywood star shares candid insights about working with Ava DuVernay, Oprah Winfrey, Colman Domingo, André Holland, and other industry leaders while reflecting on the challenges and opportunities facing Black storytellers today. He also discusses the creation of Mansa, the importance of preserving authentic Black stories, and why collaboration across cultures is essential for future generations.

David Oyelowo joins One54 Africa for a conversation about identity, family, faith, Hollywood, and the stories that shape culture. The acclaimed actor, producer, director, and founder of Mansa reflects on his Nigerian roots, explaining the royal history behind the Oyelowo name, growing up between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, and how returning to Nigeria as a child transformed his confidence and sense of belonging. He shares how his father&rsquo;s Yoruba heritage and his mother&rsquo;s Igbo background came together during a time of deep division following the Nigerian Civil War, revealing the remarkable love story that led his parents to leave Nigeria and start a new life in England.
David opens up about navigating life as a young Black student in London after returning from Nigeria, dealing with bullying, and being labeled a &ldquo;coconut.&rdquo; He also shares unforgettable boarding school stories, including secretly understanding Yoruba while pretending he couldn&rsquo;t speak it, and the hilarious chain of events that led to him dating twins at the same time.
He discusses the making of A United Kingdom, why the true story resonated so deeply with him, and how the film challenged historical narratives about race, love, leadership, and colonialism. He explains why he spent years fighting to get Selma made, why portraying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. became one of the defining experiences of his career, and how projects like Bass Reeves, Queen of Katwe, and A United Kingdom were driven by a desire to expand the stories audiences see about Black people around the world.
The Hollywood star shares candid insights about working with Ava DuVernay, Oprah Winfrey, Colman Domingo, Andr&eacute; Holland, and other industry leaders while reflecting on the challenges and opportunities facing Black storytellers today. He also discusses the creation of Mansa, the importance of preserving authentic Black stories, and why collaboration across cultures is essential for future generations.

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America.

Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots.

Godfrey Daneschmah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry.

One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America. Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots. Godfrey Daneschmah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry. One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of...

One 54 Podcast

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America.

Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots.

Godfrey Danchimah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry.

One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time 

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America. Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots. Godfrey Danchimah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry. One54 - Celebrating Africa&rsquo;s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time&nbsp;

David Oyelowo joins One54 Africa for a conversation about identity, family, faith, Hollywood, and the stories that shape culture. The acclaimed actor, producer, director, and founder of Mansa reflects on his Nigerian roots, explaining the royal history behind the Oyelowo name, growing up between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, and how returning to Nigeria as a child transformed his confidence and sense of belonging. He shares how his father’s Yoruba heritage and his mother’s Igbo background came together during a time of deep division following the Nigerian Civil War, revealing the remarkable love story that led his parents to leave Nigeria and start a new life in England.  David opens up about navigating life as a young Black student in London after returning from Nigeria, dealing with bullying, and being labeled a “coconut.” He also shares unforgettable boarding school stories, including secretly understanding Yoruba while pretending he couldn’t speak it, and the hilarious chain of events that led to him dating twins at the same time.  He discusses the making of A United Kingdom, why the true story resonated so deeply with him, and how the film challenged historical narratives about race, love, leadership, and colonialism. He explains why he spent years fighting to get Selma made, why portraying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. became one of the defining experiences of his career, and how projects like Bass Reeves, Queen of Katwe, and A United Kingdom were driven by a desire to expand the stories audiences see about Black people around the world.  The Hollywood star shares candid insights about working with Ava DuVernay, Oprah Winfrey, Colman Domingo, André Holland, and other industry leaders while reflecting on the challenges and opportunities facing Black storytellers today. He also discusses the creation of Mansa, the importance of preserving authentic Black stories, and why collaboration across cultures is essential for future generations.

David Oyelowo - One54 Africa Part 1

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/14208bbf-8603-4cf0-a7ad-b46300db7d82/transcript