By Mackie M. Jalloh
Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, has been appointed as a Global Ambassador for Elevate Africa, a prestigious pan-African initiative founded by His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom in Nigeria.The recognition came during a two-day high-level event in Nigeria, where Gilpin was honored for his dedication to reshaping the African narrative and his efforts in promoting a positive image of the continent on the global stage.
Elevate Africa, established by King Atuwatse and other visionary leaders from across the continent, aims to change the global perception of Africa by emphasizing its rich history, diverse cultures, and indigenous solutions. The initiative focuses on fostering pride in African heritage among the younger generation and inspiring the next wave of African leaders. The organization seeks to reposition Africa in global discourse, highlighting its potential and contributions to the world, rather than the negative stereotypes often perpetuated by the media.
Dr. Gilpin’s participation in the event in Nigeria was part of a broader effort to bring together key thinkers and leaders from across the continent to discuss Africa’s future. He shared the stage with prominent figures such as Lord Mayor Fabrice Rulinda of Entebbe, Uganda, and Tim Hanstad, a globally recognized social entrepreneur and Vice Chairman of the Chandler Foundation’s Board of Directors based in the United States. The panel discussion focused on how Africa sees itself, how it is perceived by the world, and what steps are necessary to reshape the continent’s global image.
During the panel, which was broadcast live across major news networks and social media platforms, Dr. Gilpin passionately addressed the untapped potential Africa holds in the global community. He argued that despite its vast resources and rich heritage, the continent has yet to fully leverage its unique advantages to establish its rightful place in world affairs. Gilpin called on Africans to take deliberate actions to combat discrimination and enforce a stronger sense of self-belief.
“We need to lead by telling our own stories, the way we want Africa to be seen,” Dr. Gilpin emphasized, receiving resounding applause from the audience. “We must make ourselves felt as Africans. We are going to earn our respect, but it begins with how we see and believe in ourselves.”
Dr. Gilpin further highlighted the Western media’s persistent bias in covering Africa, criticizing the focus on negative stories such as wars, famine, and disease, while ignoring the continent’s positive strides in various fields. He pointed to numerous examples where Africa’s achievements were overshadowed by harmful narratives, stressing the importance of changing the way Africa is portrayed globally. His remarks resonated with the audience, many of whom shared his frustration with the lack of balanced coverage of African progress.
The event and Gilpin’s appointment as a Global Ambassador for Elevate Africa signify a renewed effort to shift global perceptions and empower African nations to take control of their narrative. By inspiring Africans to tell their own stories and embrace their cultural heritage, Elevate Africa aims to create a new identity for the continent—one that reflects its true value and potential on the world stage.
As Gilpin takes on his new role, he will continue to advocate for Africa’s rightful place in the international community, leveraging his platform to promote positive stories about the continent and challenge the outdated stereotypes that have long defined Africa in the eyes of the world. His leadership in this initiative signals a brighter future for the continent, driven by Africans who are determined to reclaim their narrative and shape their own destiny.
