Gwen Madiba : when Rock Rhymes with Africa
On May 23, 2025 in London, Rolling Stone made a historic announcement: Gabonese journalist, activist, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Gwen Madiba was appointed as the first Editor‑in‑Chief of Rolling Stone Africa. Her leadership signals a new beginning for a magazine with a bold, pan‑African editorial vision.
Born in Gabon and raised in Canada, Gwen Madiba quickly emerged as a powerful voice combining journalism and humanitarianism. In 2022, she founded the Equal Chance Foundation and led a humanitarian coalition rescuing nearly 3,000 vulnerable people fleeing Ukraine. She was also appointed the first UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for Gabon, and honored with the Order of Ottawa and the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025.
As a proud person of African descent, I am deeply honoured to be named the first Editor in Chief of Rolling Stone Africa
Madiba led ELLE International and Krowd Magazine, placing cultural and social justice stories at the forefront. This set a strong foundation as she took on a more expansive role at Rolling Stone Africa.
A pan‑African cultural platform
Rolling Stone Africa launched in August 2024 through a partnership between Rolling Stone and MWANKOM. Based in Lagos, it stands as a vibrant platform to amplify African artistic and cultural voices worldwide .
Her vision in her own words
At her appointment, Madiba said: “As a proud person of African descent, I am deeply honoured to be named the first Editor in Chief of Rolling Stone Africa. To carry this torch alongside such an incredible team is both humbling and exhilarating. Together, we are committed to telling our stories with authenticity, celebrating the brilliance of our artists, our people, and contributing to a powerful, unapologetic narrative of Africa, one that reflects the depth, diversity, and dynamism of our continent.”
This statement sets the tone: authentic storytelling, cultural celebration, and unapologetic African narratives.
Together, we are committed to telling our stories with authenticity, celebrating the brilliance of our artists, our people, and contributing to a powerful, unapologetic narrative of Africa, one that reflects the depth, diversity, and dynamism of our continent
Under her leadership, Rolling Stone Africa will bridge journalism, creative expression, and cultural discourse, with bureaus in Kigali, Lagos, and Johannesburg. The goal: dismantle stereotypes, champion local creators, and reshape global narratives.
A powerful symbol
Gwen Madiba’s appointment symbolizes the emergence of a new generation of African female leaders. Her trajectory embodies the synergy of editorial rigor, social commitment, and cultural influence, offering an inspiring model for young Africans worldwide.
