The Dangers of Western Feminism to African Women | Elma Akob | TEDxUniversityofPretoria

Elma's talk titled "The Dangers of Western Feminism to African Women" explores her experience of and evolving perception of feminism as a young African woman. Elma Akob is a young and vibrant lady who is incredibly passionate about her Continent and being the change, she wants to see. She has a BCom Law and a Communication Management Honours degree and is currently pursuing her Masters in Strategic Business Management at the University of Pretoria. She is an advocate for women empowerment, a PanAfrican citizen and a Voice To Be reckoned with.
At the age of 16 she received a standing ovation at the UN Headquarters as the Continental representative for Global Young Leaders Conference in New York. A Global keynote speaker, conference MC and a voice over artist whose voice has been used by the likes of Netflix, Disney and DSTV to name a few. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@ancientparadox2084]

Whenever people say that women have been oppressed globally and totally, I tell them that they need to read about African countries and their cultures. Women had esteemed roles in the community. You have queenmothers and other women that lead their nations. People say this because like this lady said, people dont know about African cultures.

[@janetjohnston1702]

True, in my culture the Queen mother is represented by an Elephant and the King by the Lion & are both in the Big 5 but have different strengths and roles in the animal kingdom.

[@thabsmthethwa]

That is true.

[@SheekaAttiba]

And then they were colonized. Most African cultures were eagletarian. Defined roles equal respect.

[@yanan4249]

And it's not only African cultures, but some others as well.

[@abdul-kabiralegbe5660]

Someone forgot Queen Elizabeth I.

[@samt4468]

22 years old??? Such an eloquent and inspiring woman!! Amazing

[@elmaa3995]

Thank you😊

[@eeshmoh]

@@elmaa3995God bless you sister.

[@J040PL7]

Damn, she looks 40.

[@mfululizowak9899]

Wouldn't have been possible without Colonialism and Feminism. 🙃 I'm an African woman BTW and I'm sure of this.

[@aberba]

​@@J040PL7that outfit gives you that appearance

[@takishaedwards273]

Never in my life did I find opinions about feminism that described my exact feelings on Western feminism. God bless her!!! She is going to go far!

[@avigrett1484]

Western feminists are just selfish egotistical and overfed children.

[@kokoyaro]

Sheep. The womanist movement is also funded by the west as a first step to feminism in Africa. The wisest way to live life as an African is to avoid any ideologies that do not originally exist in your native African language

[@AA-yc8yr]

There wouldn't be feminism if not for Western feminism. Just look around at the treatment and place of women anywhere in Africa. Speaking about 'empowerment' of African women without feminism is frankly absurd. But then, there's plenty of absurdity about African culture anyway. Enjoy.

[@oumardicko5593]

​@@AA-yc8yrno feminism without western feminism? Well, Einstein do you see any other feminism? When feminism started, would they have gone to Africa and see how women fought for freedom ? Did you hear her saying that African culture only has positives ? Listen before talking and use little bit of brain cells you have

[@the8thchurch461]

She is male identified

[@at_paix]

African solutions to African problems 💯💯. Everything she said BRILLIANCE BRILLIANCE BRILLIANCE 💁🏽‍♀️

[@tamtrinh174]

there is problem at all to begin with, the west invented gender inequality to control people

[@isaa8521]

Exactly. In her culture that’s fine, but don’t push that message onto other cultures. Not all of us want to be some boring house wife and mother. Just stick to your lane and that’s it.

[@ldyykrr]

@@isaa8521 only the west is pushing their culture to others lol

[@kurokaizen1889]

​@@isaa8521Lmao. Who's stopping you? No one cares if you want to do that then go do it as I don't recall anyone trying to stop you or anyone like you.

[@tyronelorenzovalentio3414]

@@isaa8521Love how you intentionally downplayed the role of housewives and mothers When they are far important than some job

[@Seshane1]

Thank you for this wonderful talk. Western feminism was invented to solve a western problem. Because of its rigidity, the only way it becomes fit-for-purpose in a non-western context is if we adopt western problems as our own. We need our own style of feminism that solves our problems and supports the growth of our communities.

[@sipesihlenonxuba6187]

Totally agree, I am from South Africa and when I was in varsity I took a course called ‘African philosophy’ the label was meant to describe the experiences of African people within the African borders because of our experiences. Western feminism has become the current status quo for all societies and the problem is that how does this affect non western communities?

[@sneezyfido]

Learn from western mistakes. You do not need anything based on the idea that all of life is a zero-sum power struggle. It makes people lose themselves in hatred and bitterness.

[@dp2404]

It's been 50 years in western countries... they are waaaay ahead of African countries. Of course you can't compare

[@karenl7786]

​@dp2404 oh yea of little knowledge

[@karenl7786]

Perfectly said, and those who would comment that the West is so "far ahead"conveniently forget the advancements they found and dragged back to the western version of the stone ages in order to justify their brutal imperialism.

[@MLopezVoice]

“When you sign up to be an activist, you sign up to educate.” YES!!

[@victoriatyson-kl2sw]

❤

[@sneezyfido]

To propagandize and convert

[@minngael]

@@sneezyfido No, I believe activists need to inspire with our actions, not just our words, and engage in conversations meeting people where they are at rather than just telling people what to think. Ask them what problems they face & empower them to solve those problems rather than telling them what they should do.

[@citytrees1752]

When you sign up to be an activist, you sign up to create chaos by screaming the loudest about things you do not understand fully.

[@hunter.5625]

@@minngaelwell they don’t do that at all. Damn near all super radical liberal feminists have a melt down the moment you state a fact or say anything they don’t agree with. They can’t have a conversation because when the truth gets told they can’t handle it

[@jonralph8843]

Well, I'm Yoruba from West Africa and I can proudly tell you that women have always been highly regarded in my culture. I'll take feminity over feminism any day any time.

[@God_is_an_Atheist666]

Cap! 😂😂

[@skarbuskreska]

So when receiving the possibilty of education, the girls and boys were sent equally?

[@jonralph8843]

@@God_is_an_Atheist666 laughing to cover for your mental deficiency I see.

[@ABlackBeauty]

Mo ti gbo Sister💯🫡

[@CrusadR4real]

@@skarbuskreska Yes, Yoruba's are not misogynistic. My great grandma was a nurse...and she died at the age of 98 in 1992....she was born in the late 1800's and she was educated, and no males batted an eyelid.

[@traceydumase]

"It's time we found African solutions to African problems" Elma Akob

[@sarahrobertson634]

So let's create African feminism.

[@traceydumase]

@@sarahrobertson634 African women and our society, don't need anything to do with that word lol Let's just figure out what we can do about our various issues. No need to label it

[@sarahrobertson634]

@@traceydumase Well, African women are going to have to figure something out. Because what I hear from the African ladies in my life is that African males are completely out of control. So you can be picky about words if you want, but don't expect Western women to help you if you can't figure it out on your own. But your males need to be put in check, and that's a fact. Good luck to you!

[@rufaro003]

As an African woman my understanding of feminism is freedom is through financial freedom and education

[@ruthtebuhokamwi]

Agreed👏🏾👏🏾🤝🏾

[@TransparencySA]

Absolutely. Financial independence is important to me, too.

[@patrbison5328]

Such an eloquent and intelligent speech. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾. The Western woman's struggles are far different from the African woman's struggle.

[@bibiCism]

I agree, but do we need to pit ourselves against each other or should we share our experiences and join forces?

[@joesouthborn2960]

@@bibiCism Feminism... has a history of white women bias. The developments in the west over the last decade show feminism doesn't even see what it is anymore, not even able to define and defend womanhood. That does not make for a great ally for African women. Sorry! P.S. From Malcolm X to Steve Biko, the calling out of liberal "let's just be friends, but you do the housework"... this has been called out before. About time African Lives Matter by and for African women.

[@joesouthborn2960]

@@bibiCism if you agree, how do you chose to ignore individuality and communality are mutually exclusive? This is fundamental. Which talk did you listen to? I stand with those who decide logic is the best way to problem solve. Maybe this could be helpful for western feminism... think about it.

[@beverleyreid7572]

Absolutely.

[@joesouthborn2960]

@@beverleyreid7572 thank you. I should probably also state while the west became incredibly cynical about its influence on the globe in the 30th Century, and developed the theories of post-colonialism to reign in its attempts to subjugate the other by its universalising tendencies ("let's just be friends - serve me or I exterminate you"), feminism continued this tradition of speaking for and believing in it's ability to speak and make judgement for "the other" it self-elected to represent, without any consultation taking place. This received a reboot with how intersectionality theories (how to overcome white women bias) has spawned into gender and trans ideology. For anyone familiar with African humanism, the western cutting edge trans-humanist moment is a declaration of war on non-Western (m)otherhood. So... it helps to read the fine print, whether one want to be friend or ally... judge them by their actions, not their intentions, however nice they seem.

[@ThePiggiestOne]

Feminism has blind spots and it's important to recognise them

[@isuru221]

Blind spots? The whole thing is blind

[@TJ6152]

Nah. Feminism is straight up sexism.

[@gianabakanos9131]

I cannot pick out a single part of this talk that stood out because every single sentence spoken is pure gold. Thank you for this. Incredibly thought provoking

[@elmaa3995]

Thank you so much for this 🙏🏾 your comment means more to me than you know🌼

[@MylezNevison]

​@@elmaa3995your mind is beautiful 🥰

[@MylezNevison]

​@@elmaa3995That was a phenomenal and splendid ted talk you did ma'am!👏🏾👏🏾 I'm officially a fan🥰. My only wisdom would be to consider championing egalitarianism as opposed to potentially recreating feminism under a new monica/branding of "Womanism". What l have learnt from most identity based movements is that when the movement finally achieves its objectives, it becomes extremely difficult for those who identify their selves(egos) by it to let it go; thus they begin to look for non-existent problems to justify the continued existence of their movement/identity; which consequently ends up undoing the work the movement initially fought for... Egalitarianism imho, would never face that dilemma because it is an eternal pursuit that's not identity centric, whereas Feminism & Womanism are more seasonal and can expire after their objectives are met. That's my two cents on the matter.

[@beverleyreid7572]

She hit all the marks.

[@Ranudi]

Good speech 🎉 " African problem needs African solution."

[@malebonkosi8217]

I’m all for Africans sharing our lives experiences instead of told how we should feel by pop culture and this talk embodies that! Congratulations for a thought provoking piece

[@BestPropertyDealz]

I love to hear Queens speak. You're a Queen and more.

[@africancat581]

simply wow. Well said!

[@valarienabwire4578]

Don't copy and paste it won't work. Let us find our own solutions. This is just a breathe of fresh air. Thank Elma

[@thelastpityparty4425]

Add your flavor to it.

[@RSBexpressions]

Id like to also add that this applies to African American women. I am one. That movement is based on white female needs which have a strong distinction that last to this day.

[@Provanity]

She is so accurate about western feminism often marginalising African feminists when it comes to the jargon and theory. There’s no time for jargon and theory when someone is trying to survive many daily dangers like she described. Western feminism can afford to sit in comfort and safety while enjoying conversations about the theory of equality. Thank you Elma for saying what (imo) so many have been feeling for a long time.

[@dp2404]

Wealth made it possible for western countries to be way ahead of the rest of the world in terms of human rights and freedom for their citizens. It is what it is

[@Gracieinspired]

@@dp2404wealth from that barren land called Europe? The only true resource from western countries is cabbage and potatoes. You mean stolen imperialist wealth. But hey it is what it is.

[@wrestlinganime4life288]

​@@dp2404more like exploitation

[@dp2404]

@@wrestlinganime4life288 no exploitation is possible without strenght.

[@afrykanqwin]

Yesss I wrote a paper on this

[@chilalachifwepa4213]

Love this so much. From her beautiful attire and hair to every powerful and relevant word. ✊🏾

[@vivienakagha2948]

This is the best talk on feminism ever.

[@IndigooceanOrg]

Great talk. I resonate 100% with this as an African-American woman. All the more for women of the African continent.

[@triple_gem_shining]

I'm pretty sure women would running the world would ruin it 😂

[@user-hy5qm6ve8x]

​@@triple_gem_shiningI'm pretty sure women would write a more comprehensive sentence.😅

[@wrestlinganime4life288]

​@@triple_gem_shiningyeah.. Sure.. Judging by the ongoing wars we have women are definitely gonna do worst

[@bimates2690]

We still got womanism. Although, it’s not as popular as feminism. Surprise, surprise…

[@thabsmthethwa]

She hit it on the nail. Love. Superb. I have always maintained that feminism is a real challenge to the individuality of the African female. It's not our story and what it seeks to embody is different to how we were raised in an African construct. It is about the individual more than a community or family. The sooner we go back to understanding simple African values and learning enough about what it is African women were fighting for, then we would understand our role in the current day environment. We live to co-exist and we can lead that fight to have family dynamics and values as a foundation. So that when we walk into boardrooms and certain spaces we maintain that inner construct instead of playing to the corporate coldness of gender battles.

[@imParisthoee]

“When we walk into the boardrooms” which boardroom do you intend to walk into if traditional gender roles dictate the only rooms you belong is the bedroom, kitchen and laundry?

[@kurokaizen1889]

​@@imParisthoee People like you are simply looking fo argue. Go elsewhere if that is what you seek.

[@tabbypanda82]

@@imParisthoeeright🤷🏾‍♀️

[@waynewayne8419]

@@kurokaizen1889learn to think. You’re so scared of siting down to think and it shows:

[@nombusodlamini7298]

Here here👏👏👏👏

[@monjekay2234]

Well said, Elma! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Our main frame of reference needs to be African, otherwise we’ll keep trying to solve our problems using foreign experiences that we can’t identify with. Sometimes the lesson we need to learn from other cultures is not to do as they do.

[@RastaAfricanGentleman]

From beauty, presence and intelligence our African sister is nothing shy of a queen, shine my sister and get yours. Thank you for educating us at such a young age

[@PoisonelleMisty4311]

Hey Takisha! Absolutely, Elma's perspective on Western feminism resonates so much. It's refreshing to hear someone articulate the complexity of African women's experiences in relation to feminism. Her insights challenge the one-size-fits-all approach and emphasize the need for solutions that truly address our unique challenges. She's definitely paving the way for important conversations. 🌍✨

[@karlynpercil36]

“It’s time we find African solutions to African problems.” 👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏿🙌🏿🔥🔥🔥 We need to continue building the Matriarchal Table based on the principles of Womanism. Thank you Elma - this was profound! One of the best talks I’ve heard on Feminism and you helped me gain clarity on what I was struggling with in terms of the Western Feminism movement. Asé ✨✨✨

[@thetornadocrusader968]

No matriarchy doesent work

[@elmaa3995]

Thank you so much Karlyn, its a concept that can't be explained in 15 minutes, its heavily layered and any small statement can be wrongfully analysed, but I'm glad that I could communicate how a lot of us have been feeling about Western Feminism 😊

[@mgtowbro917]

The Patriarchy can survive without womanism, womanism cannot survive without the patriarchy.

[@liiiiaaaaaa]

@@mgtowbro917 not lol, have you seen Rwanda?

[@liiiiaaaaaa]

@@thetornadocrusader968 maybe not for you, lol

[@OloyedeOlumide]

I’m only six minutes in and have noticed they’re messing with her sound…twice already during very critical points that she’s making. Nonetheless her message is not lost. Very true and very meaningful.

[@nombusodlamini7298]

💯

[@margaret6089]

You think it's intentional 🙄

[@Lexicon345]

I think they tapped into the wrong mic feed. That's ambient audio, not her lav mic.

[@ekaterinastaneva9922]

If they wanted to sabotage her they will not upload the video, easy

[@deamorebeaute2412]

​@@margaret6089History has shown you it often is. Stop the gaslighting.

[@ebbaffour3269]

Thank you, Elma!! Unfortunately, African history is not taught to our children. Africa has multiple cultures and vast history. In the Ashanti Kingdom in Ghana, the queenmother is the ultimate decider as to who becomes a king. The last war between the Ashanti Kingdom and the British was led by one of the queen mothers called Yaa Asantewaa. You can't call all women in Africa oppressed.

[@mfululizowak9899]

Actually it is. African culture in my country is taught from grade one in social studies to High school in History. You've just named a few exceptions of women having "good" rights. This can be equated to a Western woman quoating Jon of Ark to trivialize what feminism has done in the Western society. There are many many practices that are being fought to this day that heavily affect blk women. From FGM to child marriages to r*pe culture e.t.c From someone who it was compulsory to study African civilization in school, I thank God for colonization and Feminism. Otherwise at my age of 28 years I'd have been married off a long time ago, very docile and traumatized but considered meek and be a mother of almost 20children. On top of that I wouldn't be having my cl*t cause men didn't want girls to enjoy s*x fearing we would enjoy it. 😳 I'd think if my husband isn't beating me he doesn't love me or is about to usher in another woman who he loves more and would rather beat. Lol Out of ignorance one glorifies that which they no not just cause it's from skin folk yet skin folks have been the worst enemies to bw in history. I'll share links of African literature you can indulge in to know what the African woman's plight was like and in some areas IS like.

[@nyimasetousillahsillah8393]

@@mfululizowak9899I don’t think that saying ‘ I’m grateful for colonialism’ is the right choice of words. Colonialisms for most Africans has been the most destructive thing to ever happen. Families have been torn apart, sold and enslaved to their masters. I fail to comprehend how colonisation has helped you into living the life you’re living now. As a FGM survivor, I will additionally mention that not all African women are circumcised. I’m hugely against FGM of course, but categorising all of African women into the same box isn’t a wise thing to do

[@nyimasetousillahsillah8393]

@@mfululizowak9899I’m very interested in those links that you’ve mentioned above

[@mfululizowak9899]

@@nyimasetousillahsillah8393 " I fail to understand how colonialism helped in the life you are living now" 🤣😂🤣😂🤣 I became a CEO of a company at the age of 27, when my mother died she left me(a girl) her inheritance instead of my brothers, I went to school and wasn't married off, I am not circumcised, I don't have tribal marking from my tribe to be "marriage accepted" e.t.c but I mentioned those above and you still didn't grasp anything so I don't think you'll grasp this too. BTW....tribal wars were worse and in East Africa where I come from, blk girls and women were sold to Arabs in exchange for spices and food. Baby girls as young as 3months old. Colonialism stopped that. You need to erase the ignorance to understand what I mean and that means you indulging in alot of literature, videos and talking to older women in the community who aren't male identified to really tell you what was up before colonialism and the spread of Christianity in many regions.

[@mfululizowak9899]

@@nyimasetousillahsillah8393 Comprehension is key in this subject as well because I NEVER said all African women are circumcised. I am not and I have lived in Africa all my life. Women of precolonial times though, were circumcised. There was no two way about it.

[@tamuz9633]

Go, African Matriachy ❤ Its not about gender equality, because we women are not limited by men's limitations (and they are MANY). What we seek in the patriachy world is not equality to men, but EQUALITY shouldd notbe confused with Equal RIGHTS. No woman in her right mind wants to be treated like a male. What we want is the freedom to be women and have & enjoy what is OURS in Mother's Earth aka Mother Earth 🌎 There is a BIG DIFFERENCE between the two, ladies & gentlemen! 🎉

[@TheLeftRbabieskillers]

What rights do men have, that women don't?

[@meancookie89]

Funny neither is respected in African continent is large areas and various countries

[@OpinionatedBlues]

@@smallsignalswho said women didn’t have flaws? Why are you here?

[@bomgodd]

@@OpinionatedBlues been in America lately?

[@heythere9371]

Its just feminism, but you wanna rebrand it because the wprd has become associated with people you dont like

[@joannamonique707]

I do think part of the problem in America is the lack of equal respect. Different roles doesnt mean we dont have the an equal amount of value. BUT I think the freedom American women want includes the right NOT to play the role society assigned to women. I believe most women WANT to play that role but in reality there will ALWAYS be a small percentage of women who dont. They will always exist. And the goal of Western Feminism is to impress upon people that ALL people deserve basic human respect reguardless of wether or not they subscribe to your personal belief system concerning gender. The message isnt just that the womans societal role has just as much value as the males. The message is that women have a right to autonomy and to not be what men or society wants them to be. We believe that until everyone understands that, women will never truly be safe. Its not enough to just uplift the feminine role. People have to learn to respect the autonomy of the people who decide that the "role" just isnt for them. We believe that until the autonomoy of ALL women of ANY lifestyle is respected, women will always live in danger and fear. We cant only be concerned with the safety of women who are "like us." We want ALL women to be free to have their own minds and not be threatended with violence bacause of it.

[@paulds65]

Respect needs to be earned by accomplishments and behaviour.

[@mikescorpio1108]

​​@@paulds65How does that work in this scenario: a moderately dressed woman walks down the street and is approached by a man or a group of men issuing unwanted advances. How is she supposed to "earn" respect in that moment? What accomplishments are she supposed to show for respect? Which behavior? Accept the advances? Let the man/men do what they want?

[@joannamonique707]

@@paulds65 so women should respect the group of people who commit most violent crimes, start all wars, and enslaved women. Why would women respect that? I'm not talking about respect as in putting someone on a pedestal. I'm talking basic human respect, like not thinking you have a right to someone else's time, energy or body. If you believe women don't deserve respect because we don't have muscles then is it also fair to say that men don't deserve love because they can't give birth?

[@joannamonique707]

@@paulds65 so women should respect the group of people who commit most violent crimes, start all wars, and enslaved women. Why would women respect that? I'm not talking about respect as in putting someone on a pedestal. I'm talking basic human respect, like not thinking you have a right to someone else's time, energy or body. If you believe women don't deserve respect because we don't have muscles then is it also fair to say that men don't deserve love because they can't give birth?

[@aisnow5788]

Beautifully written.

[@LizTiddington]

Thank you for taking the time to educate people like me, I truly appreciate your labour in this

[@lindiwechaza-jangira6898]

Awesome!! Thank you for telling our story so brilliantly.

[@keneiloethage4000]

Yoh sis preached and did not leave crubs❤❤ As African women we have faaar more and bigger struggles. We're 50 steps behind as she said💯

[@MonifaAdebola]

This is so refreshing to listen. Thank you 💜 😊. I've had similar dilemmas with Western feminism in how feminism is propogated in the Caribbean. Our own solutions!!!

[@nnekaruizmontalvo6573]

This is brilliant. It should be translated into several languages so that more women can benefit from its message.

[@mkyrene]

Have you ever been in a position where someone litteraly takes the words out of your mouth and brain. I couldn't have said/put it any better. She's so outspoken, and her speech is so well put. I'm so happy that more and more african women wake up and distance themselves from what feminism has turned into nowadays

[@suzygirl1843]

GET FEMINISM OUT OF AFRICA

[@Dimension2364]

Hearing this, my brain is chanting „Right! Right! Right!“ over and over again. Finally! Someone who spells it out so clearly and so brilliantly! I have lots of respect and love for this woman.

[@mmmbeer3645]

Paalllleeeesssseee! Give me a break.

[@keneiloethage4000]

I'm here for this comment ❤❤ She finally said it and brilliatly so. Haters will hate

[@ukik0318]

Wow she's 22 and so accomplished! Amazing 👏

[@HenrikVendelbo]

I miss TED talks. It used to give me so much inspiration. I can no longer remember a talk that isn’t a prescription on what I should think about other people and which boxes to put them in

[@mmasimi]

What a beautiful message! Thank you for the education from a fellow Cameroonian. Thanks for making us proud

[@kasikwagoma6740]

@mmasimi,also thank the south african education system that gave her a first class education and made her so eloquent. I actually thought she was a south African native from the accent..... Still she is an African and that is what matters.

[@ste16kam35]

@@kasikwagoma6740retarded

[@OuterSpace_Queen]

Powerful talk 👏🏽 Thank you for sharing you view on such a sensitive topic.

[@Sibalukhulu_]

I remember her and her sister Joan from my school, high performing students. I'm so proud that they're doing important things.

[@Theleftycheffe]

Gotta love it. Thank you madam. You have made my night and gave me hope. Thank you for being my voice, and I am sure, that of many. May your journey and purpose be blessed.

[@elmaa3995]

This is so special, thank you your words truly mean a lot to me.

[@alexanderlukubisa6738]

I love this talk. A woman speaking wisdom!!!

[@bongarozani272]

Feminism frowns family or collectivism in support of individualism. It 'clashes' with Ubuntu because ubuntu is 'we'. Thank you for yoyr assertions Elma, you have taught us.

[@oaikanyegarakumakoe5185]

That was honestly the best South African Tedx talk I've ever watched.

[@phizzy123]

@@lunga5647they’re in Pretoria, South Africa bro what are you on about?

[@deborahnkemjika_01]

Elma Akob, this is spot on! I love your approach, resolution, coherence, references, and eloquence. ❤

[@ericlane659]

The elder-to current generation comparison between the women in her country of Cameroon is spot on! Elder women enjoyed prominence and respect in their roles within their society. Similar to how it was in the US. However, as she said, if current generations of women were to occupy those same roles within those conditions, they would view it as oppression. The sad reality is that the last three generations of women of the West are the most liberated, protected, and empowered generations in history, yet they are increasingly more unhappy -- commonly known as the Paradox of Female Unhappiness. Yes, women in Africa have different challenges in their pursuit of gender freedoms and equality but this pursuit should be rethought and juxtaposed against the benefits that the former matriarchy also held.

[@AlwaysUp-uf9dl]

Ah, yes. Female unhappiness comes from our innate desire to serve men. Shut up. Women are unhappy in the West because men are still lazy idiots who can't wash a dish or look after their own damn kids.

[@olubunmiadewolebabatunde4769]

Great work. Bless your heart 💞❤️ Such wisdom

[@yolandesteenkamp9845]

Congratulations for finding the strength to talk about this touchy subject and having the backbone to share your story so personally, and with so much conviction. You're such a rock(star), and upon and through sons and daughters such as yourself are built the new futures we pray and struggle for.

[@sunflowerdaja-womanhood]

This is one of the most powerful Ted Talks that I've seen in a very long time! I LOVED it! She is doing great work.

[@Celarsy]

This is really informative!!! Thanks Elma! Well said!!!

[@ritagreenwood9397]

This is the first I have ever heard of Elma Akob. I don't know her, but I know now that she is my sister. ♥

[@victoriatyson-kl2sw]

❤

[@errol484]

In a general sense, we should not be quick to view an ideology as having a monopoly on certain behaviors/actions. For instance, you can absolutely love and care about the lives of animals without wanting anything to do with PETA. Likewise, you can advocate for EQUAL/healthier treatment (we know a certain ideology in the west has little to do with equality) for women without wanting anything to do with the ideology that Elma Akob speaks of. For several reasons, many have this belief that if you believe in/advocate for "X," you must automatically place yourself under the ideology/organization, and the like.

[@TheMiraclePerspective]

This is the most powerful talk I've heard on the topic. Very profound Elma

[@elmaa3995]

Thank you so much Miracle :)

[@ThatsMrPencilneck2U]

At the beginning of this century, a great many Africans immigrated to the United States. I worked with a number of Africans and met others on the street. I was impressed that these folk came from a society that was incredibly more humane than my own. I cannot see any Western cultural movement being a good thing for Africa. I think we would be better off learning from African culture.

[@melaninbotswana2474]

In Africa everyone knows their roles clearly men women and children common sense seemed to be valued more by the majority of people that's why western culture is hard to dominate our society because we very cultured people. That's the reason why things like LGTV movement don't work because they don't make sense and doesn't serve the community any good in africa

[@ThatsMrPencilneck2U]

@@melaninbotswana2474 What I think is a major difference between African immigrants and the natives, here, is that the Africans come from a small town culture. Cities teach people to be cold and mean. The high rents in the US force people to work hard for long hours, and that destroys people's patience. Still, the way Africans go to help a person when that person loses their temper is something I've never seen before. This is a habit we all need to learn.

[@demoawo4968]

​@@ThatsMrPencilneck2U Even our big cities still have spirit of community and togetherness, it may be different than in rural areas, but it is there.

[@evielennard9017]

Elma, this was brilliant! I feel anything is possible listening to you. Thank you

[@Mpress123]

I was called backward because I spoke out about how feminism has become. This made me stop going into spaces that saw me different. I feel I dont fit in. Thank you for having the confidence I wish I had and have to speak out.

[@justsomeguy335]

What has feminism become in your opinion?

[@BestPropertyDealz]

I am writing a book about the fact that women were already empowered in Africa before colonization. Your perspective gave me so much insight on this.

[@elmaa3995]

I'm so glad I could help Chukwuemeka. It is a pity that so much of our history was not documented, that is why its so important to talk to your grandparents and hear the stories from their mouths.

[@BestPropertyDealz]

@@elmaa3995 Exactly, Nwanyị ọma. Unfortunately, there's very few knowledgeable about elders alive, but I'm actively doing so. How can I reach you for more in-depth insights on this?

[@BisiLIFE]

Please do! I keep telling ppl that in omenala, we held our women in high regards.

[@BestPropertyDealz]

@@BisiLIFE very true nwanne.

[@yudiamond1437]

I was attacked in an online forum for arguing that pre-colonial Igbo culture actually dignified women in more ways than Western culture. Truth remains that while no culture is perfect a lot of the current gender based issues are products of modern distortions of our traditional values system

[@elisabeth6656]

Wow! That is very strong and on point. We have to revise our values and what we already have before adopting western values 💯. Thank you Elma

[@rionachaiken]

This is so powerful - what a necessary talk, full of brilliance and insight.

[@julesandra]

Aagh! I found this too late👏🏽the level of truth in this is beyond admirable.

[@handelngure5076]

From the intro, I could tell I was gonna love it. I knew it would be a favourite ❤️❤️

[@pamngamne9424]

I love that she’s Cameroonian 🥳🥳🤩

[@astridpresley166]

❤

[@gifi11]

Between her and Libianca...... I'm about to visit. Our women are throwed off lol

[@Hereismyra]

What a formidable woman! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the topic! Very profound!

[@elmaa3995]

Thank You!♥

[@phalanesharon2173]

Wow such an eloquent and well presented talk. I love the way you present so gracefully and speaking from the heart. And thank you I have learnt a lot.

[@LadiAdewumi]

African history does show that across many Afrian tribes, woman are loved, valued and respected in families and societies. Many women even led wars or led communities.

[@thrilla72]

I mean, was it not already evident?

[@DeniseManico]

Parabéns à ela, realmente um discurso que elucida e transforma a maneira de pensar

[@kyomuhendoselevano7337]

Thanks for this great information... She is such a brilliant lady .

[@nyashamucheka1970]

Gems being dropped. A powerhouse!! Well done Elma!!!!!🙌

[@tonyenogheghase2370]

Thank you for a wonderful speech. As a Nigerian, I agree with you totally.

[@mirriamsithole9647]

Thank you Elma. This really makes sense. ❤️

[@bizent227]

God bless this woman !

[@bear.b]

I agree with almost all of Elma's points. The only one I have an issue with is the grouping on white western women as one unit. We are not, there are a lot of cultural differences between different white western cultures that often get ignored in this discussion. I am from an ex communis country, women in my country were never allowed to be housewives. They were the iron girls who were tasked to build the country from the ground up. Women worked in a all industries, and did all kinds of job while taking care of the household at the same time. Feminism in our countries today is fighting against the need for women to carry the whole country on their shoulders. But also fighting for the right to be whatever you choose, whether that is to be a career woman, a housewife, or both.

[@agmechanix]

Wouldn't an ex-communist country not be a modern western country? Could you say which country you're from please?

[@manderly109]

To me that’s what feminism means. It means choice, and not pitting women against each other or making one out to be better than the other

[@jeziskristus6084]

Such a shame the sound quality isnt that high, its a great talk! hope people arent discouraged because of it - if anyone had a better recording, please let me know! Thank you

[@galgal8333]

Thoughtful at 22. But her ideas will change in a decade or so wnere she goes through more diverse life experiences. Feminism applies everywhere. And just because African women have bigger fish to fry does not mean that the feminism movement excludes them.

[@margaret6089]

Yessssss Feminism applies to African women even more because of this "bigger fish to fry"

[@Vickiluv]

We are capable of speaking for ourselves. At 53, I certainly have never needed free advice , but nice try.

[@bennylomotey]

Thank you for your words🙌🙌🚺🚺💪Elma Akob's talk highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context and unique challenges faced by African women when applying Western feminism. This is a crucial issue that is often overlooked. Thank you for sharing this insightful talk that encourages reflection on the unintended negative effects of gender equality efforts. 💬📚🌍📚🌍

[@thedivinegoddess9455]

👏🏽 bravo I’m Cameroonian too ❤ I completely agree.

[@ministertothechurch-thezea4552]

I love it when people become conscious

[@Emma-jp1zq]

wow you are very inspiring to me. thank you very much for your words, i learned a lot !

[@baisinbu98]

This is a great thought piece and salient questions raised therein to enable us interrogate the current status quo. Feminism has been weaponised by both sexes, some using it for unfair advantage and others to totally cancel out womanism as highlighted here. We need to return to the drawing board. Thanks Elma for a thought-provoking talk. 🎉🙏🏾

[@Nzambi237]

We never were to the drawing board in the first place

[@thandazilemtetwa5600]

This is so beautifully articulated. Thank you Elma❤️

[@judithantwi3677]

Amazing and inspiring. Good bless you!

[@gracerozinah2411]

Brilliance! Brilliance!....A very good TED talk

[@johnojara7251]

Great daughter of Africa. Brilliant understanding of timeless African culture. Thank you very much.

[@1971gift]

I would say that she should not fall into the whole narrative of 'cancel culture'; or she should distinguish between cancel culture and accountability culture. Because if we are to really look at it, few people are every really cancelled. They go on a/b their business harming and offending people and groups asking bad faith questions and making bad faith statements. So I would dispense w/ that. Otherwise she gives a lot of food for thought especially for Gen Z African women (on the continent and in the diaspora).

[@jmpuva]

love to hear and learn from this Afro Queen!

[@LydiaTifuh]

This is Joan’s sister. Nice seeing you speak 🎉

[@beverleyreid7572]

Elma, you make it all makes so much sense. Thank you young lady. Just when I want to give up on the very young, here you are.

[@darktimesatrockymountainhi4046]

Thank you for making sense, Alma, and speaking up to the illogical ppl who assume power! You are brilliant & evidence that great & important things come from Africa

[@nchimunyamacha3214]

I loved this ted talk 👏

[@marigoldbeam5475]

You give great hope Elma. You prove that there are those of our children who have ears and have heard, eyes and have seen. I'm old enough to be your mum and I'm so grateful that young African women like you are there to take the baton. That you have not been subsumed by westernisation, but are forging your own paths and those of us as a people.❤🙏🏾

[@buschhuhn9197]

Very VERY well said. I, a "kaukasian" living in East Africa, feel you represented more women than you imagine.

[@samleycop]

whats "kaukasian" ? are u African or not

[@mkatekomachabi2282]

I don't remember hearing the Feminism issue the way you addressed it😢 so profound.❤

[@tdreamer25]

That was amazing, thank you Elma, well done!

[@sibzism]

Yay!! Sense being spoken! ❤ so refreshing 🙏🏾

[@dearyvettetn4489]

Beautifully said Elma. You made many solid and excellent points and really gave this talk your all. I wish that the person who handled your audio did the same 🤔 As a daughter 👩🏽‍🦱 and wife of audio files it was a distraction and the first time I ever experience this in any TED Talk I’ve ever watched.

[@kokutetabaregu8265]

Well presented!

[@midastorch]

❤❤❤❤❤ This lady is not just beautiful but she is full of wisdom and so much more. Like knowing people like this. 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@simplymoraa2565]

Her hair, her face, her style, her eloquence! I'm impressed by her! 🤗

[@beverleyreid7572]

May God continue to bless her.

[@winelabayebec4750]

Well done Elma, brilliant !

[@sophytv7064]

You are an incredible speaker 🔊 👏🏾 ❤️ 🙌 ♥️