The (Im)pertinence
of Alternatives
Dialogues of African Perspectives on a World in Crisis
5 - 9 October 2026
Online conference
The (Im)pertinence
of Alternatives
Dialogues of African Perspectives on a World in Crisis
5 - 9 October 2026
Online conference
What do these times
ask of us?
Djolifon's first online conference, The (Im)pertinence of Alternatives, Dialogues of African Perspectives on a World in Crisis, aims to weave a tapestry of intergenerational, trans-local, trans-disciplinary, and trans-professional African perspectives on this moment of unprecedented convergence of existential, civilizational, and environmental crises. It is an invitation to collectively articulate and foreground other and othered understandings of the work to be done and the journey yet to be traveled.
In a world grappling with a confluence of interconnected crises, this conference convenes to dissect the profound environmental, civilizational, economic, geopolitical, and social shifts currently reshaping the landscape of international relations. A central focus will be on understanding and defining the evolving position of African countries within this dynamic global order. Our dialogues will delve into several key themes designed to foster critical analysis and actionable insights:
Gen Z and the (im)possibilities of alternatives
This theme will connect the perspectives and insights of Gen Z activists to current global challenges. It will explore the impacts of their political actions and examine their political proposals for addressing their key issues. The aim is to amplify how this generation is driving change and explore the innovative approaches they are bringing to the struggle.
The Stakes of Hyper-Imperialism
Amidst a shifting paradigm of globalization, this theme will critically examine the concept of hyper-imperialism and its implications for African people and nations. Our discussions will aim to highlight and celebrate viable other and othered pathways through which African people and institutions are resisting—or can better resist—violent, extractive, and exploitative global dynamics. Crucially, this theme will also spotlight alternatives and voices championing an equitable ecological transition.
Art, Ethics, and Spirituality in a World in Peril
This multifaceted theme acknowledges the critical role of diverse artistic practices in stimulating imagination and fostering new modes of perception and understanding in the face of global crises. It will investigate how art can serve as a catalyst for challenging existing narratives and envisioning alternative futures that value humanity’s ethical and spiritual needs as highly as our material needs. These sessions will therefore examine essential ethical principles for navigating the complex dilemmas of our time and explore the restorative and transformative power of spiritual traditions to offer solace and meaning and foster individual and collective resilience.
Post-activism
The present moment compels a sober assessment of our limitations and demands that we confront our fears and failures and embrace the enduring power of our dreams. This theme will grapple with the urgent question of what new forms of civic engagement, social mobilization, and collective action may be needed to address the multifaceted complexities of contemporary issues. It will explore the critical conditions and enabling environments necessary for other forms of activism to take root and flourish.
In dealing with all these themes, this conference is designed to go beyond mere analysis to illuminate and foreground diverse and often marginalized understandings of and experimentations with the critical work that lies ahead. The complex, multifaceted nature of the journey yet to be traveled demands no less. We are committed to bringing together the widest possible range of voices and experiences in a respectful and constructive environment to contribute to shaping our shared future.
The conference is fully bilingual (English and French) for both the formal and informal sessions. spaces.
OUR APPROACH
As both facilitator and co-conspirator, Djolifon strives to co-create spaces, lines of inquiry, approaches, and processes with as diverse a range of individuals, collectives, and networks exploring how to respond to the crises of our time as we can. Our continuously adaptive approach reflects a passion for critical connections, a deep appreciation of our interconnectedness with all that exists, and the wisdom to be found in the marginalized or overlooked peripheries of discourse and practices.
VALUES UPHELD BY THE CONFERENCE
TRANSMISSION
Reciprocity in artistic praxis and activism through intergenerational, translocal, transdisciplinary, and transprofessional entanglements that seek and welcome enrichment of the tapestry of inquiry, approaches, processes, and interactions of our collective attempt to forge the other.wise.
Plurality
Celebrating the diversity of perspectives, cultures, ideologies, and identities (whether based on ethnicity, religion, gender expression, sexual orientation, or physical ability), that characterize the African continent.
Action
Whether amplifying existing alternatives or exploring new possibilities, promoting transition from reflection to concrete implementation of other and othered pathways.
Relational
Emphasizing the beauty and tenderness of human connection, collaboration, and solidarity.
MEET THE SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
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FORMAT
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“Grins” are daily and/or weekly hangouts around a teapot, under a tree, where friends meet for discussion and conversation on (in no particular order) the state of their community, country, continent, and world. Our Grins will have a similar spirit, but with predetermined topics to guide dialogues.
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Formal sessions that will weave together a tapestry of perspectives and pathway ideas to illuminate the richness of what is already possible and what could be other.wise.
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Designed to frame the theme of the day, but inspired by the butterfly effect, which posits that even seemingly insignificant actions or ideas can have important, far-reaching outcomes.
SESSIONS
The program outlines a series of enriching experiences, each designed to engage our sense of togetherness, provoke (re)imaginations and nourish our individual and collective commitment to bringing forth other and othered pathways.
5 - 9 October 2026