Selam & Hello
Selam & Hello is a show featuring stories of joy and justice from Africa and the diaspora. Produced in Kenya for global audiences, it curates conversations on identity and culture. The podcast aims to inform, entertain, and uplift listeners.
Episodes
Does AI Know What Githeri Is? AI & African Education
Does AI know what githeri is? Ben and Lilly, both self-proclaimed ‘African optimists’ discuss why the answer to that question matters for the children who need AI most.
Nearly four years after his first appearance (unless you caught his episode on parenting last month!), global education expert Dr. Ben Piper returns to Selam & Hello. What began as a revisit of their 2023 conversation, Power in th
African Parenting Wins and Fails | Blame or Claim Game
Does your face light up when your child walks into the room? Lilly and her husband, Dr. Ben Piper, reflect on parenting while playing ‘Blame or Claim’, a game about the wins they'll take credit for and the fails they'll pin on someone else (her? him?).Lilly and Ben have raised four children in Nairobi, between Ethiopian and Black American traditions. In a rare episode with Lilly in the guest seat
Raising Kids Between Two Worlds | Modern African Parenting with Dr. Ben Piper (&Lilly!)
What does it take to raise four children across two continents, and still like each other at the end of it?In this deeply personal Selam & Hello original, Lilly invites her husband of 27 years, Dr. Ben Piper, into the studio for an honest, funny and tender conversation about modern(ish?) African(ish?) parenting. After 24 years of raising four children and two decades on the continent, the two
The Politics of Water: Dr. Anna Msigwa on Drought, Climate, and the Future of Food
#ClimateAction #SelamAndHello #LivingWithTheLand #PoliticsofWaterIn this final conversation for Selam & Hello’s Living With the Land series, Dr. Anna Msigwa traces the path that led her into hydrology, climate adaptation, and agricultural water management. Based at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology in Tanzania and also serving as a Research Associate at the Unive
A Potato for Every Child: Dr. Dinah Borus on Food Security & Africa's Most Underrated Crop
More than one billion people eat potatoes every day. Yet this familiar crop is often overlooked in conversations about climate resilience, nutrition and Africa’s food future.This episode is Part 2 of Living with the Land, a Selam & Hello series in partnership with the Australian High Commission in Kenya. Lilly speaks with agricultural scientist Dr. Dinah Borus, widely known among farmers as “M
LIVE! 2026 Nairobi LitFest: Mothers Loom Large
Recorded live at the 2026 Nairobi LitFest on Mother's Day.What do our mothers give us beyond life? Language. Courage. Silence. Resistance. Sometimes even the freedom to choose a completely different life.Lilly Bekele-Piper sits down with three of today's most celebrated international writers, Safiya Sinclair, Dr. Nick Makoha and Lina Meruane, to explore the complicated inheritance we receive from
Inside Lilly's Afro-Modern Home
(This episode is a special collaboration with @African Interiors. FULL episode can be found at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83vTSspY7jg&t=627s)What makes a house feel like home? Today, Lilly welcomes you into her Nairobi home, where Ethiopian heritage, Kenyan life and Pan-African design come together to tell one family's story.Lilly reflects on identity, belonging, creativity and
The Power of Food: Dr Agnes Kalibata on the Systems That Feed Africa
What if the future of Africa isn't hidden beneath the ground—but growing from it?In this special episode that is part 1 of a series in partnership with Australian High Commission Kenya, Lilly Bekele-Piper sits down with one of the world's foremost voices on agriculture and food systems, Dr. Agnes Kalibata. From transforming Rwanda's agricultural sector to leading the UN Food Systems Summit, Dr. Ka
Culture Is the Circle | Katungulu Mwendwa
Recorded live at the World Hope Forum: East Africa.What if culture isn't something we simply inherit but something we intentionally build? Fashion designer Katungulu Mwendwa has spent her career living that question.In this special episode of Selam & Hello, Lilly sits down with Katungulu Mwendwa, founder and creative director of Katush, for a moving reflection on identity, belonging, creativit
Kabi's Next Cup!
The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily represent the official views, positions, or policies of the Australian High Commission Kenya.Selam & Hello has partnered with the Australian High Commission as they celebrate 60 years of partnership with Kenya for this special series: Saying the African Part Out Loud! In this final (and
The Body & The Blueprint
The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily represent the official views, positions, or policies of the Australian High Commission Kenya.In the second episode of the ‘Saying the African Part Out Loud’ series with the Australian High Commission Kenya, Lilly sits down with Hemanshi Galaiya — Kenyan bioengineer, social entrepreneur, and
LIVE! Now & Next: Caleb Maru Curates Code Across Continents
The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily represent the official views, positions, or policies of the Australian High Commission Kenya.To commemorate 60 years of diplomatic partnership between Australia and Kenya, Selam & Hello has partnered with the Australian High Commission for a special three-part series: Saying the African
The Summit of a Lifetime: Lessons from Ato Nagizy Gebremedhin
In this poignant final episode of Selam & Hello, Lilly sits down with the extraordinary Ato Nagizy Gebremedhin—engineer, mountaineer, and a treasured elder of Nairobi’s community. At 90 years old, Ato Nagizy recently climbed Mount Kenya for the 14th time, exemplifying a life lived with purpose and resilience.Together, they journey through his Ethiopian and Eritrean roots, his groundbreaking pa
The Aftermath: What the US Election Means to the Continent and Diaspora
In this compelling episode of Selam & Hello, Lilly sits down with Robyn Emerson, Chair of Democrats Abroad Kenya, for a candid and insightful discussion on the 2024 U.S. election results. Together, they unpack the ripple effects of the American election on Africa and the diaspora, delving into the emotional and political aftermath of Kamala Harris’ loss and what it signifies for communities bo
The Year That Was
In this reflective year-end episode of Selam & Hello, Lilly and Selam & Hello’s Creative Producer, Rahma take a heartfelt journey through the show’s most memorable milestones and candidly share the challenges and opportunities that come with sustaining their platform. They delve into the power of personal storytelling, how their guiding pillars of joy and justice shape who they are, and wh
(BONUS) Ethical Influence: Navigating Brand Engagement Amid Kenya's Revolution
We are back from our season break to bring you this special and timely conversation. Since June 18, Kenya has been immersed in a political and cultural revolution. This episode features a dynamic conversation with two trailblazers in the world of media and marketing who discuss what it means to be fully present, transparent, and ethical as content creators and brand managers during unprecedented t
99 Stories and Counting ... (Part 2)
In part 2 of this special 99th episode, join Lilly and Njoki Munene as they discuss some of their favorite conversations and transformative moments from the show. They dish about what really happens before live shows and the non-negotiables that have to happen before every interview. Lilly and Njoki talk about the growth process that has come with 99 episodes, what has worked and what hasn't - and
99 Stories and Counting... (Part 1)
Tune in for part 1 of a behind-the-scenes peek into the heart and soul of Selam & Hello that you won’t want to miss in this special 99th episode of Selam & Hello! Join Creator, Host, and Executive Producer Lilly Bekele-Piper as she swaps roles and sits down with the show’s Researcher and Community Manager, Njoki Munene. Get ready for an intimate conversation where they delve into Lilly’s t
The Legally Joyful World of Adelle Onyango (Part 2)
Welcome back to part 2 of our conversation with the incredible Adelle Onyango! Adelle is the Founder of Legally Clueless Africa and the Adelle Onyango Initiative, and has quickly become and powerful and important voice in media and advocacy for women and girls. In this episode, Adelle shares her views on politics, her advocacy work as a survivor of sexual violence and her (joyful) hopes for the fu
The Legally Joyful World of Adelle Onyango (Part 1)
We had so much fun talking with Adelle Onyango that we had to break the episodes into 2 parts! Adelle Onyango is the Founder of Legally Clueless Africa and the Adelle Onyango Initiative and has quickly become and powerful and important voice in media and in advocacy for women and girls. In part 1 of our two-part series, Lilly and Adelle discuss Adelle's transition from traditional media to creatin
We Are Making This For Our Children
This week on Selam and Hello, we delve into the world of "Uli & Tata's African Nursery Rhymes," an animated series celebrating Africa's cultural heritage. Join us as we chat with Sarah Mallia and Manu Akatasa, the creative minds behind the project, about their journey to bring these brilliant rhymes to global audiences and the importance of preserving cultural identity through storytelling. Fr
Congo na Biso: Our Congo
We are honored to host Kambale Musavuli, an analyst at the Center for Research on Congo & a leading human rights advocate in the Democratic Republic of Congo, on the show this week. Kambale shares his insights on the challenges and resilience of the people of the DRC and the deep-rooted historical and systemic issues contributing to ongoing conflicts. Kambale invites us to find ourselves in Co
Katush and the Tapestry of African Fashion
This week on Selam and Hello, we're honored to feature Katungulu Mwendwa, the visionary founder of Katush Nairobi. Join us as we delve into Katungulu's inspiring journey from studying fashion in the UK to establishing her own brand in Kenya, where she creatively blends traditional Kenyan influences with contemporary aesthetics. From showcasing her collections at prestigious global platforms like P
The Case for the Continent
This week on Selam and Hello, we're honored to host Lydia Namubiru, Editor-in-Chief of The Continent. Join us as we explore the inception of The Continent, and its innovative and empowering platform for African journalism. From celebrating African excellence to shedding light on humanitarian crises and preserving cultural heritage, Lydia discusses the pivotal role of media in shaping public discou
The Case for Indigenous (Re)Imaginings
This week we embark on a visionary journey into 'The Case for Indigenous (Re)Imagining' as part of our ongoing exploration in 'The Case for Hope' series. Join Lilly as she sits down with two inspiring educators for liberation, Sajda Khalil and Amin Hussain, in a conversation brimming with optimism, insight, and passion. Sajda and Amin shed light on innovative approaches to African-centered educati
The Case for Choice
This week we are privileged to hear one woman’s story on her journey towards choosing the life she wants to live. Muthoni Gitau, a notable content creator and podcaster shares her choice to be child-free, the many challenges she has faced in that journey, and ultimately, how she reached her destination. Muthoni shares the questions and answers she has wrestled with in her path to reproductive heal
The Case for Traditional Medicine
This week on Selam and Hello, Lilly delves into the world of traditional medicine with Vitalice Ochieng, Senior Program Manager at the Trust for Indigenous Culture and Health (TICAH). Together they discuss the motivation and tenets of TICAH's book 'Using Our Traditions: A Health & Nutritional Guide for Kenyan Families' and explore their efforts in preserving and promoting traditional medical k
The Case for Comedy
This week, Lilly delves into the world of comedy with Doug Mutai. Doug, Founder of the Kenya Standup Collective and Co-Founder of the Nairobi International Comedy Festival, joins us to share how he got started, the current trends in comedy in Kenya and what makes a good joke. Doug shares how language is an important cultural signal when writing comedy and his insights into navigating sensitive top
The Case for Truth
This week, Lilly dives into the world of journalism with Maya Misikir. Maya is the founder of SIFTER, a weekly newsletter that highlights the top five stories from Ethiopia, shining a light on the challenge of discerning truth in an age of misinformation. Maya shares her journey to journalism, the creation of SIFTER as a beacon for reliable and inclusive news, and her commitment to impartial repor
The Case for Domestic Workers
According to the IMF, around 60 percent of the Africa’s population engages in the informal sector - a world where many workers navigate the challenges of vulnerability while seeking dignified employment. In this episode, Lilly and her guest, Wangeci Kamau, the innovative founder of Good Housekeeping Africa, shine a light on the realities of domestic work and informal employment, advocating for dig
The Case for Hope
In today’s episode, Lilly explores how she is mining for hope amid hard days. She offers a ‘case for hope’ based on both the local and global ‘microjoys’ she’s stumbled across lately. Her reflection kicks off an upcoming series of episodes that will make the case for some of life’s most universal needs and concerns and how we can find hope in each of them. Its a short - but poignant - offering we
LIVE! 2024 Africa Media Festival with Mwalimu John Sibi-Okumu, OGW
Dive into an electrifying live episode of Selam & Hello, recorded live at the 2024 Africa Media Festival, featuring the legendary actor, author, broadcaster, and teacher - Mwalimu John Sibi-Okumu, OGW! In this captivating conversation, Mwalimu Sibi-Okumu joins host Lilly to explore the transformative power of artists as disruptors within media and society. Through gripping anecdotes and v
A Tech Safari for the People
Caleb Maru, is a tech entrepreneur and partner at Proximity Ventures. He joins Lilly this week to discuss the current trends in and the future of tech and innovation in Africa. He shares his journey from pursuing law in Australia to investing in the tech space in east Africa and starting a bi-weekly newsletter, Tech Safari, which has over 18,000 subscribers. Caleb highlights the challeng
The Fun, Fierce, Frivolous World of Wanuri Kahiu
In loving memory of Charles ‘Charli’ Ouda.In this captivating episode of our podcast, join Lilly as she dives into an enthralling conversation with the illustrious Wanuri Kahiu, a visionary force in Kenyan filmmaking and storytelling whose groundbreaking work has not only influenced African cinema but has also captivated audiences worldwide. Today, we discover the vibrant world of AFROBUBBLEGUM, a
Being a Woman Should Not Be a Death Sentence
Note: This episode contains mention of sexual assault and gender-based violence. In a powerful episode following the anti-femicide protests across Kenya on January 27th, 2024, Lilly converses with Maria Maina, a lawyer and writer who created the blog and social media platform, Social Justice Insights Kenya, which focuses on human rights and gender equality, and Audrey Mogeni, co-founder of Fe
The Color Green: How Nairobi's 'Outlaws' Are Saving the City
Join Lilly for an enlightening conversation with urban anthropologist, Dr. Wangui Kimari. Dr. Kimari discusses her unique research blending local histories, urban political ecology, and the Black radical tradition to explore urban spatial management in Nairobi from the perspective marginalized residents. Lilly and Wangui delve into the importantl role of Nairobi’s "outlaws" in greening the city, t
Trash to Treasure: Creating Enviornmental Dignity in Africa
Today’s episode brings us into the innovative world of sustainable development andenvironmental technology. Lilly chats with Kidus Asfaw, the CEO and co-founder of Kubik, a company that is revolutionizing the transformation of difficult-to-recycle plastics into low-carbon building materials for emerging markets. Kubik was founded in 2021 and is already being lauded for their extraordinary ambition
Words Have Wings
Happy New Year! Today, we are honored to welcome eminent Haitian-American author and the Wun Tsun Tam Mellon Professor of the Humanities at Columbia University, Edwidge Danticat. In this episode, Professor Danticat guides Lilly through her literary craft and prolific library of 17 published books. The conversation probes the crucial role of literature in preserving and amplifying cultural legacies
(BONUS) 23 Joys of 2023!
At the end of every episode we ask our guests - 'what is bringing you joy today?' Join us in the seasonal bonus as we listen to 23 joys from 2023! Thank you for listening, for sojourning with us and we wish you all a joyous and blessed holiday and new year!GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: KEVIN MWACHIRO, Writer, Podcaster, Journalist, and Queer ActivistEp 52: Black, Queer, BelovedALABA ANGOLE, Soc
Behind the (Selam & Hello) Scences!
In the last episode of 2023, host Lilly goes behind the scenes with Sahihi Africa’s Becky Muikia and Rahma Seif for an exclusive look into Selam & Hello’s journey through 42 episodes, 54 guests, 4 live events and 2 spin-off shows in just 1 year! Sahihi Africa, a Pan-African communications agency, is at the forefront of amplifying diverse African narratives through media and partnered with Lill
A Supermodel Comes Home to Herself
In this episode, Lilly sits down with Kenyan supermodel and founder of the Ajuma Foundation, Ajuma Nasenyana, to explore her remarkable journey from the Turkana region to global fashion runways to her impactful work with the Ajuma Foundation. Ajuma shares her experiences growing up in Kenya and the bullying she experienced, her rise as a running champion, and how her modeling career also left her
Twende! Twende! Twende!
What if your best friend was a boda-driving, super-chill, urban pangolin? Today Lilly is joined by the star-studded cast of Showmax's trailblazing 2D animated series, 'Twende' which follows the adventures of Twende, the pangolin, his best friend and bird, Nuru - and the villains on their tale - as they scope the city for adventures and snacks! This isn't just any show – it's a gem in the crown of
The Sun is a Star
Join Lilly as she dives into a conversation with Susan Murabana, the visionary Kenyan astronomer and co-founder of The Travelling Telescope. Together, they unravel Susan's fascinating journey from a stargazing enthusiast to a trailblazer in community science education. Discover how The Travelling Telescope is captivating young minds and deepening their understanding of astronomy while weaving indi
Bread and (African) Wine with Chef Munashe
Did you know that although Black South Africans represent more than 80 percent of the country, only 1% of wine brands sold there are Black-owned? Our guest today is determined to see that change one sip at a time. Munashe Kwaramba, a dynamic sommelier and winemaker, and the chef and owner of Hari Kitchen in Franschhoek, South Africa joins us this week to tell his story. Munashe journeyed from
LIVE! The Boundless African Imagination
In this engaging live recording from the Littlgig Festival in Lamu, Lilly sits down with the distinguished Tsitsi Dangarembga, one of the Continent’s most prolific writers, playwrights, and filmmakers, whose narratives have touched audiences across the world. Tsitsi’s interview recounts her mother's profound influence on her life, instilling in her the conviction to harness the intellect and creat
Black is Beautiful: Exploring Colorism
In this episode, Lilly sits down with social anthropologist and Rhodes Scholar Alaba Angole for a conversation on colorism and the skin bleaching industry in Zambia. Alaba shares the personal encounters with colorism that have informed her research and mission to dismantle damaging social ideologies around color, gender, and social interactions. Alaba's intensive research on the cultural and socia
Injustice Anywhere Threatens Justice Everywhere
This episode was recorded on Thursday 26 October. 2023. Please note that themes of war, conflict and genocide are discussed. In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King said: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” Today, Lilly is joined by Irungu Houghton, Executive Director - Amnesty I
Don't Call It a Comeback
Join Lilly as she engages in conversation with Mark Otieno Odhiambo, one of Kenya’s top sprinters. In this episode, they explore his challenging journey back to running following a three-year ban due to an unintended violation at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. They delve into the complexities of being an international athlete, the rigorous guidelines they must adhere to, and the intense pressure that co
Sheila Munyiva Takes the Spotlight!
Join Lilly as she delves into Sheila Munyiva's transformative journey in the film and theatre world. Renowned for roles in projects like ‘Rafiki’, Netflix’s ‘Country Queen’, and Disney’s ‘Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire’, Sheila recounts her rise from playing a made-up Bible character to reshaping on-screen narratives. Sheila shares what it meant to her to be a part of the Rafiki’s impact of weaving
The One and Only Gado!
Legendary political satirst Godfrey Mwapembwa, better known as Gado, is proof that a picture is worth a thousand words. In this engaging episode, Lilly and Gado chart his unique path from his hometown of Dar es Salaam, to placing second in a drawing competition in Nairobi to becoming the Daily Nation's revered political cartoonist - and beyond. During their conversation, Gado reflects on his mothe
LIVE! I Can't Breathe: Dr. Ijeoma Kola's Remarkable Journey in Scholarship & Social Impact
In our first public live recording of 2023, Lilly hosts the dynamic Dr. Ijeoma Kola, a professor of history a the University of Notre Dame and a versatile presence in digital content creation, social impact entrepreneurship, and much more. Dr. Kola, the founder of Cohort Sistas, talks about her Nigerian heritage and the formative influence it had on her worldview, even after migrating to the U.S.
Under the Sea with Kenya's Poseidon
Today Lilly plunges into the captivating world of marine life with the remarkable Gibbs Kuguru! Gibbs is a Kenyan shark geneticist, biologist, and a vibrant presence on the cast of When Sharks Attack 360 on National Geographic WILD. Gibbs is the proud recipient of the 2022 National Geographic Society Wayfinder Award and is furthering research to unravel the mysteries of shark DNA and broaden our
All Hail Arsema!
Selam & Hello to all our wonderful listeners - we are thrilled to be back with Season 2 of Selam & Hello! Our guest today is actor, activist, and tech entrepreneur Arséma Angela Adeoluwayemi Hamera Thomas. Arséma has captured the imagination of global audiences with their portrayal of the young lady Danbury in Netflix’s original series from Shonda Rhimes - Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerston Story. Bor
(Best of Series) Poverty Has an Expiration Date
72% of Kenya’s population and over half of Africa’s population live in rural areas. Join Lilly as she sits down with Nelly Cheboi, the inspiring CEO of TechLit Africa, Forbes 30 Under 30, and CNN's 2022 Hero of the Year to hear how Nelly is on a mission to empower rural, African children with the digital skills they need to access opportunities anywhere in the world. TechLit Africa has engaged
(Best of Series) My Feet Are My Only Carriage
In this episode, Lilly talks to Navalayo Osembo-Ombati - CEO and Co-Founder of Enda Athletic, Inc. Navalayo takes Lilly along her journey of founding the first running shoes and athletic brand to come from the continent. Navalyo shares her experience conceptualizing Enda and the innovation inspired by traditional Kenyan arts and culture that led to creating the brand, a story, and ultimately - a w
(Best of Series) Power in the Culture
In this episode, we get to know Lilly a little better as she brings you a mashup of the personal and the professional. Lilly speaks to Dr. Benjamin Piper - Director, Global Education at Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation - and her husband of 24 years. They talk about their journey of coming back to the continent to both raise a family and pursue careers in development as a blended Black American and
(Best of Series) Wakanda Forever Eva
Award-winning actor, director, and writer Mugambi Nthiga joins Lilly for an episode all about the movies. Following the Oscar nominations, Lilly and Mugambi talk about their favorite films of 2022, the celebration of films such as blockbuster and diaspora-inspired Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and the apparent snubs of The Woman King and Nope. They also explore the importance (if any) of institu
(Best of Series) Let's Get It On
In the Valentine's Dat episode, Lilly speaks to psychosexual therapist Julie Githiru-Goko about all things sex and relationships. Julie and Lilly tackle questions from some of our listeners on issues they have been curious about. They explore how to have deeper, more meaningful communication for better connection and ultimately - better sex. Julie gives us some tips and tricks on how to navigate s
(Best of Series) The Revolution Will Be Taught
In one of our most popular episodes of 2023, in honor of International Day of Education, Lilly speaks to ‘educators for liberation,’ Sagda Khalil and Amin Hussain. They explore their journeys to becoming educators both on the continent and abroad and their approach to education as social justice. They share the ways they are celebrating the wisdom and brilliance of every child and decentering the
(Best of Series) Ten Million Meals Isn't Enough
In 2022, Food4Education served its 10 millionth meal. Since we first aired this episode in January - they have passed the 15 million mark! Wawira Njiru, the Founder and Executive Director of Food4Education joins us to share the journey and incredible impact that the organization has had in Kenya since they began their work a decade ago. Wawira and Lilly discuss how to tell dignified stories about
(Best of Series) Who Tells Your Story?
In this episode, Lilly talks to East Africa correspondent for the New York Times, Abdi Latif Dahir. They explore the nuanced experience and incredible responsibility of writing about Africa as a child of the continent who has an international platform. Abdi discusses how his personal ties and experiences in the region inform his role as a journalist and the challenges he and other reporters face w
Live! The Happiest Place on Earth: A Journey to Centrafrique
In this special edition, join Lilly and the live audience as she has a soul-stirring conversation with Jean, a loving father, dedicated husband, and a resilient citizen of Centrafrique. Jean introduces us to his "happiest place on earth", a country populated with warm people whose focus is on the present, not the past. Jean, born and raised amidst the decades-long civil war in Centrafrique, revea
(PART 2) Selam & Done: Dennis Ombachi Chops it Up!
Friends - this week, the best way to enjoy this episode is on YouTube! Watch as Lilly and Dennis chop up his first Ethiopian meal - the classic dish, tibs! The recipe is below and you can enjoy the full experience on YouTube as they prep the meal from start to 'done!' A special twist at the end where Lilly makes ugali for the first time…enjoy! Follow Dennis Ombachi: Instagram Twitter TikTok You
Selam & Done: Dennis Ombachi Chops it Up!
This week on our show, Lilly delves into the intriguing life of Olympian, chef, international rugby player and winner of TikTok’s Top Creator Africa in 2022 - Dennis Ombachi. They explore his multifaceted career path, personal life, and his journey from a young rugby prodigy to a content creator. Dennis also touches on significant milestones such as missing a second Olympic opportunity, and father
Weaving Glorious Histories of Fathers and Griots
In this week's riveting episode, Lilly converses with Baba the Storyteller, a master griot who has spent three decades spinning tales of wonder and wisdom for global audiences. Inspired by history and a pursuit of self-knowledge, Baba narrates his journey from his roots in Compton, California to Senegal - and ultimately, across the world. Lilly and Baba journey together through tales of his herit
Lucky Girl
In this episode, Lilly engages in conversation with Irene Muchemi-Ndiritu, author of one of the hottest books of the year - "Lucky Girl." Irene's journey is as compelling as her debut novel, taking her from a career in journalism, through media and communications, and finally leading her to her true passion – writing. Together, Lilly and Irene explore the making of "Lucky Girl," a book that explor
My Mother Was My First Country
My mother was my first country, the first place I ever lived. - Nayyirah Waheed This last week of May - we are celebrating mothers and people who mother around the world. In this (belated) Mother's Day episode, Lilly, sits down with her wonderful daughters, Saron and Selah, as they peel back the layers of their shared life experiences. Join them as they delve into the richness of their unique sib
Habibi Al-Sudan
In this episode, Lilly delves into the ongoing conflict in Sudan that has caused heart-wrenching loss, displacement, and turmoil. In the face of this dire situation, where over 1000 people have lost their lives since April 15th and countless more have been forced to leave their homes, Lilly invites three Sudanese nationals to lead us into the heart of Sudan, its vibrant culture, diverse people, an
The Motherland and The Diaspora
In this episode, Lilly takes us on a journey through the lives of three Ethiopian and Eritrean students - Sophia, Daniel, and Mekides - from Blair High School in Maryland, USA. Their compelling discussion centers on the unique experience of being young diaspora members in 2023, an identity marked by cultural exploration, shared struggles, and a profound connection to their roots. They discuss thei
Gen Z Has Entered the Chat (Part 2)
This week, we pick up where we left off last week with a continuation of our conversation with Gen Z! In part two of this eye-opening interview, Lilly dives deep with Nairobi's creative trailblazers Philo, Silas, Rick, and Thomas. They candidly share their perspectives on politics, mental health, and their aspirations for the future. Discover how and who influences their lives in different circums
Gen Z Has Entered the Chat
According to the UN, Gen Z, the generation born between 1997 and 2011 and aged approximately between 12 to 26 years, is the most populous generation in the world. They are the first generation to grow up with the internet, a declining climate, war and terrorism as the norm and social media. As a result - they are different. In a recent Selam & Hello survey, our listeners said they wanted to hear m
There is Joy in Justice - Lilly has something to say
This week Lilly sits down to share her thoughts one on one with listeners. As we watch the conflict in Sudan, the attack on Black lives in the US and the conflict and tension across the world, she echoes the question of writer Nanjala Nyabola: when the world is on fire, what do we owe each other? While there are no easy answers, could we all consider creating more justice and more joy as one way
Inappropriate, Necessary African Laughter
*This episode contains (limited) mature content at 34:30-50, 51:19-51:39, and 52:00-52:45 Selam and Ha Ha Hello, everyone! In this episode, join Lilly as she participates in inappropriate, necessary, African laughter with Nairobi’s Punchline comedians, Eric and Shazz. Lilly, Eric, and Shazz explore Eric’s and Shazz’s journey into comedy and talk about the experiences that brought them into this fu
Black, Queer, Beloved
Warning: This episode contains mention of suicide from 14:30-15:40. In this episode Lilly talks to writer, journalist, podcaster, and queer activist, Kevin Mwachiro. Kevin shares his journey of being an active member in the church, traveling to the UK for his masters, spending years of his career at the BBC - all while finding his voice and eventually - becoming a human rights activist. Now age
When Sex Work Isn't a Choice
Warning: This episode contains themes of sex, sex work, and trafficking In Nairobi alone - over 40,000 women are engaged in transactional sex work. In this episode, Lilly engages in a powerful conversation with Eunice Mathu, the founder of the Rejesha Project. Discover how Eunice's an experience on the Kenyan coast made her aware of the sex work and trafficking industry in Kenya which led her to l
Poverty Has an Expiration Date
72% of Kenya’s population and over half of Africa’s population live in rural areas. Join Lilly as she sits down with Nelly Cheboi, the inspiring CEO of TechLit Africa, a Forbes 30 Under 30, and CNN's 2022 Hero of the Year to hear how Nelly is on a mission to empower rural, African children with the digital skills they need to access opportunities anywhere in the world. TechLit Africa is engagin
Being Human With Other People (E)
Trigger Warning: This episode features discussion of suicide and includes use of explicit language. Join us as we continue our celebration of Women’s History Month with this conversation between Lilly and Christine Yohannes, a gifted writer, poet, and playwright. Through their powerful exchange, they explore the profound impact of words and poetry, which have left an indelible mark on cultures ac
The Living History of the African Woman
In a continuation of our celebration of Women’s History Month - Lilly talks to Samba Yonga - award-winning journalist, cultural curator, and co-founder of the Women’s History Museum of Zambia. Samba co-founded the digital museum in 2017 with Mulenga Kapwepwe to ‘research and restore African indigenous narratives, knowledge, and living histories’ - entirely focused on women. Samba walks Lilly throu
My Feet Are My Only Carriage
In this episode, Lilly talks to Navalayo Osembo-Ombati - CEO and Co-Founder of Enda Athletic, Inc. Navalayo takes Lilly along her journey of founding the first running shoes and athletic brand to come from the continent. Navalyo shares her experience conceptualizing Enda and the innovation inspired by traditional Kenyan arts and culture that led to creating the brand, a story, and ultimately - a w
Love Yourself, Love Your Hair
Selam Emiru, the founder of Glisen, guides Lilly on a hair care - and hair love - journey in this week’s episode. Selam shares how her own journey of learning to care for her hair led her to use her background in tech to create Glisen - a free platform that offers women resources to help them understand, nurture, and love their hair. With the Black hair care industry set to reach the trillion-doll
