Borders and People

omo pastor is a NY-bred Nigerian, is a talented storyteller who utilizes various artistic mediums to promote healing and empowerment through authentic narratives. She is a published storyteller representing the African Diaspora and is currently based in Atlanta, Georgia. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in English from North Carolina A&T State University, she embarked on a full-time career in storytelling. omo pastor’s creative endeavors revolve around the intricate intersections of gender, sexuality, emotions, and history, with a particular focus on the experiences of individuals of African descent in contemporary society. Her ultimate objective is to merge the past and the present, constructing a fluid future where Black people can find peace, breathe freely, and exist in fullness. Her impressive body of work has been recognized and published in various esteemed publications, including the Aggie Register, Aggie Press, Itawanba County Times, Taji Magazine, and The Bloom Journal. Furthermore, her contributions have gained attention in notable platforms such as Womanly Magazine, Voyage ATL, Shoutout Atlanta, Rolling Out, Life, I Swear Podcast, and multiple film festivals, including the Baltimore International Black Film Festival, Sabira Cole Film Festival, Twin Cities Black Film Festival, San Antonio Black International Film Festival, Arizona Underground Film Festival, and Queen City Film Festival. In 2018, she published her debut book titled Gaze; a captivating collection of poetry, prose, and photographs. Through this artistic collaboration with other Black women writers, she skillfully unravels the complex layers of Black masculinity, offering insightful perspectives and thought-provoking revelations. In 2020, she released her first short film, Privilege which has garnered immense acclaim and numerous accolades. This cinematic creation delves into the multifaceted dynamics of the African Diaspora, exploring the struggles faced by both Nigerian immigrants and African-Americans. Privilege has been showcased in various international film festivals, captivating audiences across different continents. Additionally, her artwork has been exhibited in notable events such as the IrokArt Pop-Up Show, My Art is Not Free Art Auction, JCAL Group Exhibition, and Inclusion. Her creative talent and unique perspective have allowed her to collaborate with esteemed individuals and organizations, including Diggy Simmons, The Pivot Podcast, Nicole Behaire, Adekunle Gold, Aramide, Pheelz, and many others. Currently, omo pastor continues to embark on her artistic journey, utilizing her talents to create meaningful and impactful art. As she explores different parts of the world, her creative endeavors serve as a platform for self-expression, cultural representation, and the exploration of profound human experiences.

Bayo Akanbi speaks to Amaka Obioji about moving to the UK & finding a middle ground. Bayo Akanbi is a Nigerian Filmmaker and Film Editor based in London. Bayo's expertise can be chalked up to an experimental approach to work and a diverse portfolio that spans corporate commercials, documentaries, events, short films, television, and music videos. His films are emotionally driven, using socio-cultural impact and shared experiences as pillars for artistic expression.