Angèle Etoundi Essamba

“From a very young age already, I was always quite fascinated by people. I used to observe, to look, and in my head of little girl, you know, I was just imagining how I could capture all that movement, expressions, emotions.https://womenmindthewater.com/artivist-series/angle-etoundi-essamba "Photos that Speak Volumes with Angèle Etoundi Essamba," Wo(men) Mind the Water Artivist Series Podcast, March 2026”

“I am more than confident that the future of Africa is very bright. It cannot be otherwise because the positive energy and vibration emanating from the continent is just too great. Africa is a continent with matchless opportunities and where everything is possible.https://newafricanmagazine.com/3930/ "Introducing Angèle Etoundi Essamba," interview with Femi Akomolafe, New African Magazine, August 2013”

“I plan to keep doing what I do best; that is, to photograph beautiful, strong black women. However, what is more important to me today is to share more. Through teaching, shows and exhibitions, I would like to share my knowledge and my experience.https://newafricanmagazine.com/3930/ "Introducing Angèle Etoundi Essamba," interview with Femi Akomolafe, New African Magazine, August 2013”

“Photography is for me a need, the need to express and to communicate. As long as the need will exist, I will create.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ang%C3%A8le_Etoundi_Essamba "Angèle Etoundi Essamba," Wikipedia”

“And is the image of African women you wish to convey the same as in the 90s? My message hasn’t changed. Stereotypes are still very much present. Even nowadays, people tend to be surprised with my works due to their preconception of the African continent and African women. In a way, all of my projects translate this wish to break away from stereotypes. Although I cannot change the world, I believe I can contribute to this evolution of mindsets.”