Welcome to #The55. This is an appreciation of 55 creatives whose work I stan hard for, who I think deserve some props.

Posting in no particular order and by no means is this list exhaustive, so let's get started!
#Thread

1. @LukaMwango if you still haven't got a copy of #Perdition get in touch with @BitterSweetZM they'll let you know how to get one. The only Zambian author I know personally with his book in the Library of Congress and major ivy league schools. And I'm glad to have edited it.

2. & 3. @ed_summer @EmmanuelaSpring These two seasons are as refreshing as they sound. Amazing poets and writers now lawyers they pour out what they have learned and are learning for others coming behind them with their blog https://advocatementorship.wordpress.com . Check it out.

4. @TheBeardedKing_
Before he was the bearded marvel you know today, he was simply Jei; A boy with a dream and gift of storytelling. You may have seen him on the Bittersweet stage and many many others but I bet you didn't know he's also a genius at marketing and architecture

5. & 6. @eatpraystyle @DonCorleAnn you can say what you like on these streets but the same fierceness Spouse and Feyonce serve here is what they serve on the ground. Through their organisation @SistahSistahFo1 they are impacting wonderfully in the lives of many (1/2)

In addition to all the advocacy @eatpraystyle is an amazing designer and @DonCorleAnn is an amazing writer.
(2/2)

#The55

7. @leelabee my waifu is a lot of things. Whether she's writing articles, presenting a show or working in film, her work ethic remains unmatched. I'm so proud to have her in my circle. She's such an amazing pillar of strength.
#The55

8. @whoops_c this amazing woman holds a wealth of expertise in film.
She brought us the Chipolopolo documentary e18hteam which commemorates Zambia's win at the Afcon, 18 years after the Gabon tragedy. Join her in celebrating it's 5th anniversary this Friday.
#e18hteam #The55

9. @Seya_Music You may know her for her music or you may know her for her work in the film industry but one thing is certain, she is amazing at what she does! From stage, to script writing to directing or all hands on deck as crew, Seya gives everything her all
#The55

10. & 11. & 12. @nkolewanseko this amazing writer (and amazing singer) stays inspiring me so hard. Seeing her byline makes me happy. She introduced me to @onechi777 who's making great strides in film and he in turn led me to the force that is @Kuwaha. Together they shaped me

13. @iampilato you may know him as a radical, a musician, a poet or a friend. He owns a mind I'd like to open up and watch work. 7 years ago he took a chance and showed up for a show my friends and I had put together and I've stayed stanning ever since. #The55

14. 8 years ago my friend was pursuing a music career so we would occasionally find ourselves at Romaside. There I met @ThePompi who let me write his profile for UNZA's student paper The Lusaka Star. Watching his growth has been inspiring. Listen I'm a fan ai!
#The55

15. 2011 was the year I begun going for Bittersweet Poetry. In La Gondola's upper room I met a new world of creatives. One of whom is @luchi7. Whether he's sharing poetry or on air you can't deny that he has a commanding presence. I'm glad I've gotten to watch your rise

16. La Gondola also brought me to know @thenameisMag44. Watching him cut a niche for himself in our creative industry as an artist and producer has been pretty awesome. He remains a constant reminder that it is possible to follow your passion #The55

17. @ChipoAutumn is a beautiful season inside and out. Watching her transcend from a poet to a travel blogger I've learnt that you can reinvent yourself and thrive in every aspect of your interests. #The55

18. &19. I first interacted with @GirlCanWander because of numerous tags by mutuals over our love for Star Wars. After following her and her travel blog I got inspiration to be more fearless and a little more daring. She and @alattesunshine stay reminding me to go adventuring

20. In 2010 I used to see @MumbaYachi performing at arcades a lot. So one day my extra self went over and spazzed and I've stanned hard ever since. Seeing him maintain his core of folk music and make it to where he is, is a testament to what you can achieve when you're passionate

21. @itsEstherChungu way before the Ngoma Award nomination (y'all go vote for her), way before you were Carmine and from since before #PleaseDontSnap was a thing your voice was tugging at our heart strings. I'm so grateful to have been witness to your growth. I'm so proud of you

22. @Wezi_heartsound guys ine I'm a fan of this human being. More than just for her afro-soul vibes. Wezi is a passionate activist and it's amazing to be able see her make strides from the frontline. Please vote for my girl guys, she's up for the Ngoma Awards also #The55

Psssst I'll finish this later I've had no power since 9am on Wednesday. This is 3am Thursday.
Bear with.

23. Hey @ChiqqaShanna! If there's one growth story that gives me life it's this one. It's amazing to watch her photography skills grow. These amazing pictures don't just happen. She has an amazing eye but also she doesn't stop learning and honing her skill. I stan so so hard

24. This one's for @harti_24 (see what I did there). No doubt if you've seen his pictures you understand why this is one person to root for. Whether event photography or the find of photo walks he'll always find a new way to make you look at things. Yaaaassss!

25. The best thing about being able to watch @kryticworldwide's journey is being able to watch him become the artists he's always wanted to be. Unapologetic and still bringing that fire. Note: that's what happens when purpose meets passion take notes. Salute boss

26. You might know him for his music but how many of you know that @VanillaDzaddy is a patron of the arts? Back in 2012 when my friends and I were putting on poetry shows at News Cafe, his was one face that rarely missed in the crowd small as it was. Great to see you rising

27. & 28. & 29. My minions!!!!! @Nommiie_ @FrenzyT_Thinker @Tinta_Mint my mentor always said in life you need a mentor and mentees. I'm glad that this set of young creatives have allowed me to pour my knowledge into them even as I keep growing. I'm so proud of you guys!

30. First met @Ruth_Ronnie at Talent Ya Pa Zed auditions and was floored by her talent. She is one of the artists that would grace the stage during our Soul Tuesday's shows at News Cafe and blow everyone away. So proud to what what you've made of yourself

31. @rhymeswithfate guuuuyyssss!! This my friend is an amazing artist. Digital, pencil, paint. Listen if you do not commission this persome you're missing out pa life

32. First met @The_Every_Mvn in 2015 at Fashion Day out. But more than a stylist or fashion icon he is an all round afro creative. Check his page look at his work. It's absolutely amazing

33. @LitetaTheresa an amazing spirit on and off air. Her passion for advocacy of women's rights is something to be admired. She's fighter and her strength gives me life

34. If ever you want to go on a crazy literary journey, read @LydiaChiseche's work. She has a very unique way of illustrating her stories and her poetry. Checkout her blog. You won't be disappointed

35. Another great poet I know is @Chubbae_Barbie her work evokes emotions you never knew you had. You will feel all the feels and be glad you did. These writers exist and I'm glad to know her

36. Another person whose presence in the crowd goes back to Soul Tuesday's is @Dope_G! Ey look at you now guy. So happy to see you where your talent has taken you. I know you have so much more in store for us, can't for more opportunities to document them

37. Shout out to @GerrySikazwe whose book Words That Matter is also up for Nomination at the Ngoma Awards! Keep writing, keep pushing for the arts.

38. She doesn't like chikwela but I assure you @fruitoffelicity is as sweet as her voice. Love love love to listen to her sing. Love and light to you. You're an amazing growth story. Rooting for you
#The55

39. This friend is definitely more than just a footnote in my life. He holds me down and keeps me sane. @King_Chilundu the other half of Black Crimson is an amazing writer. His work is where honesty meets creativity.
#The55

40. @mumbikasumba This is a beautiful soul with a beautiful voice. So much amazing in one body.
#The55 4

41. @arushapot whether she's writing, acting, directing or saving the world, Nancy is one admirable person. Such a bringer of joy you're better for having been in her presence
#The55

42. @stock_sweets your efforts on the conservation front are commendable. You're a beacon of hope and one of the most phenomenal women I'm proud to call friend.
#The55

43. This one @machiyadaniel showed us that we weren't crazy for dropping what we were comfortable with and pursuing our freelancing passions, and choosing paths that work for us. The king of reinvention. Hats off to you sir
#The55

44. Guys the spazzjng I have yo control everytime is see @iamthezuba she's such a wonderful human. A prolific writer and her podcast @MwendeBwino is doing the things!! I want yo write like Maz when I grow up
#The55

45. @ItatiDzekedzeke this one right here brought the idea of my book cover to life. An amazing one with graphics listen, check out his work aini.
#The55

46. @LuluHaangala this woman's story is more than inspiration just for just. She works hard for what she believes in and is a reminder that life can get you down but you can achieve so much every time you fight back and get up. #wekeepmoving #discoveranewway4
#The55

47. @NubianSkywalker an amazing blogger. My favourite thing about Luke is how he writes his experiences so vividly you could swear you were there at the event with him. Keep writing, keep flourishing
#The55

48. @TBarrakka this is one amazing artist. Like guys how much stanning am I allowed to do? It's so so inspiring for me to see such young talent pursuing their dreams.
#The55 #higaimajo

49. @NizaLebo_Phiri a poet, a bookworm and a radio personality all in one. This is yet another unstoppable force I will always root for. I'm so happy to see what you're making of yourself
#The55

50. @KamotaMayondi a writer, a poet, a yogi, a radio personality imwe there is nothing Kam can't do. Another example of unapologetic realness and reinvention! Way to go Kam!!
#The55

51. @Benny_Blow this one is another all rounder. Co-creator of The Mundane Kid comics, and travel writer for Nkwazi Magazine, did you know Benny was shortlisted for the Caine prize? Yes he writes short stories too. Today we're celebrating you too.
#The55

52. I randomly came across @FrancisBuseko's picture about 4 years ago and knew that his story was one I wanted to tell. So I combed the interwebs until I found him and he marked the beginning of my, now many, profiles for Nkwazi Magazine. I respect your hustle King
#The55

53. @DennisRed93 this is one writer to look out for. He's coming to take the world by storm. I'm privileged to see some of the behind the scenes and sneak peeks into his projects. You guys are not ready! It's epic
#The55 5

54. This thread would not be complete with @C_Karimamusama, giiirrll we have come far. From setting up events in the arcades parking lot, to Y-Magazinw to now pushing and curating @KabumbaZM as @rhymeswithfate would say I LOVE THIS FOR YOU! #The55

55. @Talu_kays this would not be a thread without you humbu! An amazing actress, writer and someone who has been there from the start, I love your tenacity and drive. Wishing you many more years of success!
#The55

Thanks so much for sticking through this thread it's not exhaustive at all there so so many more that need lauding. Maybe we'll have to do #The55 part two. But let's start here.

Remember your dreams are valid and your purpose is yours. No one can do it like you
Love & Light