DEAR CREATIVE —#ISSUE 001
Who is a creative?
In today’s world, many words are tossed around loosely—and often misunderstood. One of those words is “creative.” To truly do justice to this topic, we must return to the origin of the word and what it originally meant before language began to distort its meaning.
The word creative comes from the Latin “creare”, meaning to make, create, or bring forth. At its core, creativity is about bringing something into existence—something that wasn’t seen, known, or imagined before. Put simply, creativity is the act of making.
So, who is a creative?
A creative is anyone who makes, builds, solves, or brings something forth.
For a long time, we’ve confined creativity to artsy expressions alone—painting, singing, dancing. If you don’t paint, you’re not a creative. If you don’t sing like Beyoncé or Wizkid, you don’t qualify.
But when we return to the original meaning of the word, it becomes clear: we are all creatives.
Some people are problem-solvers. They identify solutions no one else sees and implement them—that is creativity. Some are business-oriented. They recognize gaps in society and build services to fill them—that is creativity. Scientists are creatives too; they develop ideas and innovations that advance the human experience.
In essence, creativity exists in all of us. We were created by the Creator, and He deposited these creative traits within us so we can live out our full potential.
Yet, it is heartbreaking to see the young Black creative trapped in a cycle of consumption. Africa has increasingly become a dumping ground for fleeting trends and external ideas. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram constantly compete for the attention of young African creatives, leaving them with little time to discover themselves or create intentionally.
This is what Dear Creative is about.
This letter exists for a time like this—an intimate conversation with the creative boy or girl. A reminder of who they are, what they stand for, and what they should be doing instead of merely consuming.
Creativity is a sacred calling, reserved for the best of creation.
Use your gift with intention.
I’ll see you in the next letter.
With love ✨
The African Kxhtel