Dive into the world of video essays with Khadija Mbowe
Self proclaimed “cool, fun, millennial aunty” Khadija Mbowe is a must watch. They are one of the rising stars of a specific Youtube video genre that has been gaining in popularity in recent years: the video essay. If you don't know what a video essay is, have no fear it’s a much cooler version of the school paper you procrastinated writing until the last minute before it was due. Catch up on the trend by reading the article A brief history of video essays on Youtube which features one of Mbowe’s videos on digital blackface.
The Gambian-Canadian-American content creator is a delight to watch because they know how to tackle different subjects with a perfected technique of concise narration, suitable illustration and witty conclusion. Mbowe conveys their arguments with clarity and conviction backed with extended research and humor. Without condescension, the content creator uses their voice and social media platforms to entertain and educate. Mbowe elaborates on issues such as colorism, gender equality, hip hop culture or the Karen phenomenon. Each topic is carefully studied and presented to the audience with the rigor of a master thesis.
"Conversations about racism and exclusion were never meant to be easy," Mbowe says. They describe themselves as “a charismatic and dynamic singer, entertainer, educator, writer and all around creative.” While they write, film, produce, edit, and star in their own projects on a weekly basis, their growing YouTube channel has over 6 million views and counting. Mbowe is also an advocate for equity and inclusion in all aspects of the performing arts. Their performing talent is a big part of their personality and comes through beautifully on screen via singing statements and perfectly pitched shady comments.
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The Youtuber is often mentioned for their diligent research and referenced in discussions related to pop culture. For instance in the article Bridgerton: will you be joining ‘ton’ this season, a review of the popular Netflix show released earlier this year, the author uses Mbowe’s video on the subject to draw attention to the show’s race-baiting, racial stereotypes, and the lack of Asian representation. In the video, Mbowe also highlights the issue of queer-baiting and explains how “modern ideals in a dated society [does] not allow for the acceptance or celebration of queerness and sexual orientation ” in the show. In the article 10 Video Essays That Will Get You Addicted To Video Essays, Mbowe’s video on pretty privilege makes the list for its acute depiction of the media’s celebration of traditional eurocentric “beauty” standards set by and for white people.
So take a moment and dive into the world of Youtube video essays with Khadija Mwowe. Take a look around and suss out the vibe as Mbowe would say. Join them as they address audiences from their bedroom floor with their infectious smile, quick banter and the mastery of a tenured professor. You might actually learn a thing or two. And if you need to catch up on popular culture, Mbowe’s videos are the best 101 courses you could ever take.
Image courtesy of www.khadijambowe.com, follow @khadija.mbowe.
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