Page 33 - Powerlist 2019 - Digital Edition

Matthew Morgan with Afropunk has come from it being recognised as Arts, Fashion & Design
Founder, Afropunk Festival one of the world’s most diverse festivals and the fact
that it unapologetically celebrates black culture.
Afropunk started out representing black youth
Matthew is the founder of Afropunk alongside who were considered outsiders in subcultures such
Jocelyn Cooper and they remain strongly committed as music, sports and film. The idea has evolved, and
to connecting people and supporting deprived currently comprises a particular force within greater
communities in New York and globally. youth culture.
Afropunk began as a documentary before the festival Afropunk’s community is youthful, talented
commenced from 2003. Matthew started out working individuals from all backgrounds whose personal
in the management business working alongside black narratives started on the outside looking in – but
artists that did not want to enter the rhythm and blues who have broken through anyway. They are creative,
and hip hop genres. They were in punk bands and rock expressive young men and women who speak through
’n’ roll bands so he wanted to find a place for them to music, art, film, action sports, fashion, photography
feel comfortable. Matthew’s notions at Afropunk stand and more. These are the artists who were once
up against sexism, racism, ableism, homophobia, considered part of outsider culture but who now lead
fatphobia, transphobia and hatefulness. His success and influence mainstream pop culture.

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