Weyni Tesfai, a travel creator, storyteller, and cultural anthropologist, has ignited a powerful dialogue with her candid reflections on life in Nairobi. Through her YouTube channel, “Plan B-Back to Africa,” and her engaging Instagram presence, she invites audiences to reassess perceptions of Africa and connect with the African diaspora. Her recent YouTube video, “How I See Life in Nairobi After 6 Months - I Wasn’t Ready For The Struggles!” offers a raw and unfiltered look at her journey, sparking important conversations about heritage, identity, and the realities of relocating to the continent.
Weyni’s reflections are deeply personal and politically charged. She shares that her move from Germany was driven by a desire to connect her children with their African roots. However, she expresses frustration with the persistence of colonial narratives in African education systems. She points to the continued glorification of figures like Queen Victoria in history curricula, highlighting how these narratives perpetuate a distorted view of African history and identity. This issue is not merely academic; it directly impacts how young Africans and members of the diaspora perceive their heritage, fostering a sense of disconnect and undermining pride. Weyni actively challenges these narratives, urging her audience to unlearn preconceived notions and demand a more accurate and inclusive representation of African history.
Beyond the political and historical analysis, Weyni delves into the everyday realities of living in Nairobi, sharing both the beauty and the challenges. She candidly discusses navigating scams, dealing with construction-related disruptions, and the mental fortitude required to build a life in a new environment. As a mother, she shares the emotional complexities of missing her elderly mother while raising her children in a foreign land, a sentiment that resonates with many in the diaspora. Alongside the struggles, she highlights the vibrant culture, the warmth of the community, and the resilience of the people, presenting a balanced and nuanced view of Nairobi. She has discussed the unexpected costs of living, and the difficulty of navigating local business practices.
Weyni’s content has a profound impact on the African diaspora, offering a unique perspective and fostering a sense of connection. Her honest portrayal of life in Nairobi resonates with many who have considered or made the move to Africa, providing a realistic and relatable narrative. Her message encourages members of the diaspora to actively engage with their heritage, to invest in and contribute to the continent’s development. Weyni’s work helps to bridge the gap between the diaspora and the continent, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose.
Weyni strategically uses YouTube and Instagram to engage with her audience and shape narratives about Africa. Her YouTube channel, "Plan B-Back to Africa," serves as a platform for in-depth discussions, personal stories, and educational content. Her Instagram profile provides a visual and immediate connection with her audience, showcasing the beauty and complexity of African life. Through her social media platforms, she actively challenges stereotypes and promotes a more authentic and nuanced representation of Africa. Her 15 years of experience traveling and working in Africa, combined with her studies in African studies, give her a unique and informed perspective that is evident in her content.
