In 2025, Bold Network Africa didn’t just tell stories, we occupied space. From the global stage of democratic advocacy to the intimate stages of live queer performance, we spent the last 12 months proving that the African queer experience is vibrant, resilient, and unstoppable.
As we look back on our “Bold Wrapped” for the year, we celebrate a reach of over 357,000 views. This isn’t just a number; it represents lives touched, perspectives shifted, and a community finding its voice.
1. Cultural Milestones: Chimano & Mika
Our storytelling this year focused on the power of creative expression:
- Chimano Live: We had the historic honor of recording Chimano’s first solo live performance in Kenya as an out queer artist. This performance was a landmark moment for queer visibility in the Kenyan music industry.
- Mika’s Art: We featured Mika, a non-binary queer artist whose work serves as a powerful testament to the beauty of self-expression beyond the binary.
2. Launching the “Bold Stories” Podcast
This year, we transitioned from the page to the airwaves. The launch of the Bold Stories Podcast allowed us to dive deeper into the issues that matter.
Must-Listen Episode: Our founder Chris and GG discussed the milestone gender marker ruling—a legal development that is fundamentally changing the landscape for identity rights in Kenya.
3. Global Advocacy & Local Excellence
Bold Network’s influence reached far beyond digital screens:
- The Kettering Foundation: Our founder, Chris, was honored to discuss the intersection of inclusive democracies and human rights on a global platform.
- Recognition: Our impact was felt within the creative industry, with our Head of Communications receiving an Ubinifu Award nomination for “Healing through Creativity” at the 12th Upinde Awards.
4. Heqaya: Building Community Through Truth
One of our proudest moments was hosting Heqaya, a storytelling event that brought our community together in person. In a world that often tries to silence us, Heqaya was a safe sanctuary for us to share our truths, laugh, heal, and build the bonds that sustain our movement.
5. Bold News: Your Source for Truth
Through our Bold News series, we kept our fingers on the pulse of global and local developments. We covered everything from groundbreaking legal wins to heartbreaking setbacks, always centering on community resilience and international solidarity.
The Road to 2026
We enter the new year more committed than ever. Our mission remains: to humanize the African queer experience and advocate for a world where everyone is valid.
Thank you for being part of the 357,000+ people who engaged with us this year. Let’s make 2026 even Bolder.
Want to stay updated on our 2025 milestones? Drop your email here to join our movement.
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