Amaarae is a Ghanaian singer
Singer and songwriter Amaarae has said she takes her platform seriously as a tool to advocate for young people, especially queer kids and those who feel rejected for expressing themselves freely.
In an interview with Paper magazine, a New York-based publication known for covering music, nightlife, and art, Amaarae said her music and visual identity are rooted in representing people who are often ignored or disrespected in society.
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“When I look at some of my African peers, I’m the only one whose music is extremely different, whose visual identity is extremely different, and who truly represents the underrepresented, disrespected part of our society. My platform is so important to make sure that those faces are seen and those voices are heard and those beliefs are put forth,” she said.
Amaarae explained that she uses her influence to create visibility and hope for young people who are mostly silenced or marginalised.
She noted that many young Ghanaians and Africans struggle to live openly because of strict social expectations that discourage self-expression.
“I take my platform very seriously when it comes to advocating, whether it’s the lifestyles of young kids who are queer, or young kids who have run away from home because they’re not allowed to express themselves in a certain way, or young kids who want to live outside of the box in Africa and in Ghana specifically,” she stated.
Speaking about the challenges faced by young people across the continent, Amaarae described Africa as a place where social norms are often too restrictive, pushing many youths into unhealthy coping mechanisms.
“It’s a very strict and restrictive template and way of thinking. A lot of kids really struggle with expression, and a lot of kids are led to drug use, alcoholism, and suicide, just because of how difficult it is for kids to live truly and freely in their truth. So, I don’t (sic) around with my platform at all, and I know that there are kids who are excited and feel hope when I use my platform not just to speak but also to make them feel seen,” she added.
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