Hello Africa and other She Glows Africa Magazine lovers 👋. It’s an exciting moment presenting our chat interview journey with Africa’s jewel Fantacee ❤. Today we take a look at her biography.
Fantacee Wiz is a Sierra Leonean multiple award winning traditional folk singer born in Kabala Koinadugu District. Raised in Freetown where she finished high school went to college and studied ICT(IT), Fantacee Wiz is one of the only traditional folk singers among the new school of recording artists in Sierra Leone. She’s an actor, dancer, designer, Poet, Radio presenter, Children’s Ambassador, Philanthropist, Activist and a part-time model. She’s also the first singer to perform for inmates at both the Pademba Road and Special Court female prisons in Freetown. Fantacee started earlier on as a member of the Voice of Children on UN Radio and also as a producer and presenter of the programme “Problem Page”. This led to her becoming a full-time performing artist with the Freetong Players International for couple of year
She Glows Africa Magazine :
What are some of the challenges that you have faced simply because of your gender in trying to advocate for what you believe in?
Fantacee Wiz :
Gender stereotypes undermining my credibility. Online harassment and abuse.
Cultural norms reinforcing inequality and sexism. Double standards in behavior and appearance (the way I look) overcoming deeply ingrained biases. Navigating resistance and pushback, battling burnout due to persistent challenges.
She Glows Africa Magazine:
How do you think African Women can progress further?
Fantacee Wiz: Education:
Investing in quality education for girls and women is crucial. Improved access to education empowers women to pursue careers, leadership roles, and contribute effectively to their societies.
Economic Empowerment: Providing training, resources, and access to finance can help women start businesses, participate in the formal economy, and reduce financial dependence.
Healthcare Access: Ensuring access to quality healthcare improves women’s well-being and reduces maternal mortality, allowing them to participate more actively in various aspects of society.
Legal Reforms: Advocating for legal reforms that promote gender equality and protect women’s rights can lead to more inclusive policies and better representation.
Leadership Opportunities: Encouraging women’s participation in politics and decision-making processes enhances their influence and allows them to shape policies that benefit their communities.
Technology and Innovation: Leveraging technology can bridge gaps in education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, providing new avenues for women’s advancement.
Media Representation: Increasing positive and diverse portrayals of African women in media can challenge stereotypes and foster greater societal acceptance of their capabilities.
She Glows Africa Magazine:
What is your message to a little black girl in Sierra Leon who is going through some of the struggles that you have gone through?
Fantacee Wiz:
I want you to know that you are strong, brave, and valued beyond measure. I’m so sorry to hear that you’re facing such difficult challenges. Remember that what you’re going through is not your fault, and you don’t have to go through it alone. I Fantacee Wiz that you see on national/international TV and social media has been there. I know how it feels and I want you to know you’re not alone.
It’s okay to reach out for help and talk to someone you trust about what you’re experiencing. There are people who care about you and want to support you. You have the right to live a life free from fear and harm.
Please remember that you are deserving of love, respect, and happiness. Your strength will guide you through these tough times, and brighter days are ahead. Don’t lose sight of your dreams and the amazing person you are becoming.
Stay strong, little one. You have the power to overcome, and there is a community of people who stand with you. If I can then you will too.
She Glows Africa Magazine:
What would be your full circle moment?
Fantacee Wiz:
A spiritual full circle moment for me as a feminist would be witnessing the positive impact of my advocacy efforts on a significant scale. Seeing the implementation of new laws or policies that promote gender equality and protect women’s rights, reflecting the progress made through their activism. Witnessing an increase in the representation of women in leadership roles, politics, and decision-making positions. Observing women gaining confidence, breaking through barriers, and actively participating in areas that were traditionally male-dominated. Sexual reproductive rights and justice being a norm and not a privilege.
