Unpublished Africa's 'I'd Be Empowered If…' Exhibition Shifts to Physical Space in Nairobi

Unpublished Africa, founded by curator Anesu Chikumba, presented the first physical iteration of its exhibition 'I'd Be Empowered If…' at Baraza Media Lab in Nairobi, Kenya, in March 2026. The exhibition, part of Women's Month programming, builds on three virtual editions and a 2025 research project exploring empowerment for African women photographers. It features photographers from multiple African contexts, including Sue Omollo (Kenya), Clara Koimett, Neemo Mungai, and Nellie Kereera (Uganda). The show was assisted by Creative Business Studio alumni Namukolo Siyumbwa (Zambia) and Jorge Dachala (Kenya). Chikumba emphasizes that the exhibition functions as infrastructure, providing entry-level opportunities, professional development, and long-term support beyond visibility. The curatorial process includes feedback for rejected applicants, narrative responsibility, and a focus on dignity. The exhibition is part of a broader system including photo walks in 16 cities across 9 countries, the Creative Business Studio, and publishing projects like Africa Published and From the African Streets. Chikumba's 2026 paper 'I'd Be Empowered If…': Building Infrastructure for Women's Participation in Africa's Creative Economy underpins the approach. The physical space allowed for panel discussions and real-time dialogue, contrasting with virtual editions.