Category: Sociocultural

# Shadow Scholars: When Academic Writing Becomes an Industry in Kenya

Eloise King’s documentary “Shadow Scholars” shines a light on a little-known phenomenon: the explosion of a thriving industry in Kenya, where more than 40,000 writers allow students at prestigious institutions, such as Oxford, to produce their academic work for a fee. This system, while lucrative, raises important ethical questions about the value of knowledge and academic integrity. Through a hard-hitting investigation, the film bears witness to the complex dynamics of this collaborative economy, where unemployment and English proficiency shape a writing market that is both innovative and controversial. In this changing context, notions of merit and authorship are redefined, making this document much more than a simple exposition: a call to reevaluate our conceptions of knowledge in the digital age.

### Lunar New Year in Moscow: A Celebration of Cultural Diversity

The Lunar New Year festivities in Moscow go far beyond a simple celebration; they embody a true cultural bridge between Russia and China. This year, under the sign of the Year of the Snake, the Russian capital lights up with spectacular parades, traditional dances and joyful family gatherings. The event celebrates the harmonization of cultures, where Asian cuisine intertwines with Russian flavors, while generating significant economic benefits for the city. At the heart of these celebrations, the values ​​of conviviality and sharing encourage a community spirit, recalling the importance of human connections in an often individualistic world. Thus, these festive days are not only moments of fun, but an invitation to rediscover the richness of cultural diversity, while strengthening global relations based on exchange and mutual understanding.

**A Mug for Gaza: The Art of Transforming Rain into Food**

In a burst of creativity and solidarity, Heba Rashid is rethinking philanthropy with her “A Mug for Gaza” initiative. An Oxford graduate, she has transformed a mundane object into a powerful symbol of social engagement, raising funds while sparking vital conversations about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Through an auction that culminated in four million Egyptian pounds, Rashid demonstrates how everyday objects can become meaningful levers for humanitarian aid. More than just a fundraiser, her project invites everyone to reflect on the impact of symbolic gestures and redefine our approach to philanthropy. This mug, far from ordinary, has become a canvas on which a story of empathy, responsibility and hope for a better future is written.

### Chinese New Year: Tradition and Modernity in Harmony

On January 29, the world will celebrate the beginning of the Chinese New Year, marked by the arrival of the Year of the Snake. Between family reunions and personal reflections, this emblematic period is a true crossroads where ancestral traditions and modern innovations meet. With nearly 3 billion trips during the holidays, the New Year is an essential opportunity to strengthen family ties, even in an increasingly digital society.

Festivities are reinventing themselves under the influence of new technologies: fireworks are giving way to laser and drone shows, and social networks are boosting exchanges, causing online engagement to jump by 250%. Economically, this period generates approximately $300 billion in spending, while traditional crafts are reinventing themselves to appeal to a modern clientele.

In short, the Chinese New Year is much more than just a celebration. It is an ode to renewal, a call for unity, and an invitation to reflect on our roots while embracing the future. In a globalized world, this moment has universal significance, encouraging everyone to find inspiration in this rich tradition.

**Emmanuel Macron at the Louvre: A Future to Redefine for Cultural Heritage**

On January 28, Emmanuel Macron visited the Louvre to discuss the urgency of its preservation in the face of an unprecedented influx of tourists. This monument, which attracts nearly 10 million visitors per year, must reconcile accessibility and the conservation of its precious collections. At a time when 80% of paleontological museums report similar challenges, the Louvre represents a microcosm of global cultural issues. The President called for collective responsibility to protect our heritage, because investing in culture is a necessity and not a luxury. Inspired by examples such as the British Museum, Macron advocates for innovative solutions that will transform the visitor experience while preserving the works. Through broader dialogue and concrete measures, the future of the Louvre and culture in France requires a redefinition that integrates diversity and sustainability. The true value of a museum lies not only in its attendance, but also in its crucial role for our identity and our open-mindedness.

### A Night of Reflection: Israa and Miraj and their Modern Resonance

Each year, the night of Israa and Miraj invites Muslims around the world to celebrate an iconic spiritual journey, marking the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad. This commemoration is much more than a religious event; it becomes a vehicle for reflection on spirituality, unity and social peace.

Prominent figures, such as the Egyptian Minister of Interior and the Grand Imam of Al Azhar, highlight the importance of this event in the current socio-political fabric. In the midst of tensions, celebrations vary across cultures, whether in West Africa, Malaysia or Indonesia, all emphasizing values ​​of ethics and intercultural dialogue.

In this modern context where sectarianism and violence prevail, the night of Israa and Miraj awakens the hope of collective elevation. It reaffirms that spirituality can and must be a powerful lever to foster peace and unity within our societies. As we honor this event, it is time to think of an elevation that transcends the individual to embrace the entire community.

### Shimmer Chinodya: The Voice of an Evolving Literature

Shimmer Chinodya, an iconic Zimbabwean author, is distinguished by a rich body of work that explores the realities of post-colonial Zimbabwe. His latest collection of short stories, **“Peut-on se parler et autres histoires”**, translated by Annick Garache-Gouvernel, offers a bridge between cultures, while capturing the diversity and depth of his stories. Borrowing from the narrative techniques of magical realism, Chinodya mixes everyday life and folklore, asking crucial questions about identity and resilience.

Born in a difficult colonial context, his pen acts as a mirror of contemporary struggles, inviting reflection on social injustices. By making his stories accessible to a French-speaking audience, Chinodya does not just tell; he engages in an intercultural dialogue that is essential to better understand Africa’s current challenges. His literature, both universal and intimate, highlights the importance of African voices in the global literary landscape and embodies a culture in perpetual evolution, ready to nourish future generations.

### The Struggle of Refugee Filmmakers: A Cry for Recognition

The story of Diako Yazdani, a Kurdish-French Iranian filmmaker, highlights the challenges faced by many refugee filmmakers confronted with the rigidity of administrative authorities. Denied access to his film project, Yazdani embodies the struggle for voice and culture within an artistic world hemmed in by borders. His work, focused on family reconciliation, reflects intergenerational tensions while exploring themes of exile and cultural identity.

This phenomenon of exclusion, highlighted by a UNESCO study, reveals an alarming reality: less than 10% of award-winning films are directed by non-European artists. In a climate that often uses fear of immigration to justify artistic decisions, Yazdani’s journey illustrates the need for institutional support and greater inclusivity in creative circles.

Echoing the experience of other international artists, Yazdani calls for awareness and openness to let voices that are often silenced emerge. His story is not just that of a man, but a call for the transformation of our society, questioning the artistic legacy we wish to pass on: that of the wall or the bridge? Faced with the current migration crisis, it is imperative to welcome the creativity of all and to resonate with the stories that bring us together.

**Juliata Cohen: A Melody for Commitment and Universality**

In the contemporary musical landscape, Juliata Cohen stands out for her authentic approach and plural heritage. Her debut album, *22:22*, transcends simple melodies to become a rallying cry touching on modern social themes. Inspired by an encounter with Cape Verdean poet Mario Lucio, Cohen explores stories of struggle and hope, while paying homage to rich musical traditions, ranging from soul to morna. With a one-take production, she values ​​raw emotion over technical perfection, making each track a space for dialogue. Through this project, she invites listeners to share stories and come together in a message of unity and resilience. *22:22* is not just an album, but a true exploration of cultural connections and societal challenges, uniting voices in a quest for universal understanding.

### The Legacy of Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi: A New Model of Holiness and Resistance

The story of Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi, recently recognized as a martyr by Pope Francis, embodies a bold fight against corruption in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His refusal to submit to injustice by handing over spoiled rice intended for the people of Goma highlights not only his personal heroism, but also the collective struggle for human dignity. In a country where 70% of the population lives on less than $2.15 a day, Kositi’s sacrifice underscores the need for social and economic transformation.

Pope Francis’ redefinition of holiness to include defending the oppressed broadens our understanding of martyrdom. Kositi joins other iconic figures such as Oscar Romero in championing a life of integrity in service to the most vulnerable. As a role model for young Congolese, his legacy should inspire collective action against corruption and promote transparent governance. Kositi’s beatification poses a critical question: How can we reinterpret sainthood to foster social justice in today’s world? His story calls us to honor his memory with concrete actions, to sustainably transform the DRC and beyond.