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    Selema Masekela joins One54 Africa for a conversation about identity, family, culture, sports, music, and the legacy of his father, Hugh Masekela. The Emmy-nominated host, journalist, broadcaster, musician, filmmaker, and longtime X Games personality discusses his unique upbringing as the son of a South African father, Haitian mother, and Puerto Rican stepfather. Selema opens up about discovering that his father, Hugh Masekela, was a legendary South African jazz musician and anti-apartheid activist. He reflects on Hugh's international success, including "Grazing in the Grass," his exile from South Africa, and his relationships with musicians and artists across the African diaspora. He also shares stories about growing up in Staten Island alongside Method Man, his childhood relationship with his father, and how Hugh's complicated experiences with apartheid, exile, grief, and addiction affected their family. The conversation then moves into Selema's career in action sports and media, including his work with ESPN, the X Games, surfing, snowboarding, and his unexpected journey into television. He explains how becoming the host of American Ninja Warrior gave him another major opportunity in entertainment after leaving ESPN and turning away from traditional television. Selema recounts returning to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Hugh Masekela and explains how John Skipper and ESPN brought them together to create programming that highlighted South Africa's culture, people, history, and diversity. He reflects on Hugh's life in exile, his activism against apartheid, his time in Nigeria with Fela Kuti, and his involvement in the music surrounding the Rumble in the Jungle and Soul Power. Selema also discusses the importance of cultural curiosity and how his father's experiences shaped the way he views Africa and the world. Later, Selema explores the history of Black people and surfing, explaining the longstanding relationship between Africans and the ocean and how slavery and racism disrupted that connection. He discusses African surfing traditions in places like Ghana and Senegal and the importance of reclaiming that history. Touching on Selema's multicultural identity, his public relationship with Lupita Nyong'o, and the cultural connections between South Africa, Haiti, Kenya, America, and the broader African diaspora. #One54 #SelemaMasekela #HughMasekela FULL EPISODE: https://youtu.be/MGnzpWG3yLQ Follow One54 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@one54africa?lang=en Follow One54 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/one54africa/ Follow One54 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558384346603 Follow One54 on X: https://x.com/one54africa Follow Godfrey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@godfreyfunny?lang=en Follow Godfrey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godfreycomic/ Follow Godfrey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100044424609808 Follow Godfrey on X: https://x.com/godfreycomedian?lang=en Follow Akbar on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@akbar_gbaja?lang=en Follow Akbar on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akbar_gbaja/ Follow Akbar on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akbargbaja Follow Akbar on X: https://x.com/Akbar_Gbaja One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America. Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots. Godfrey Danchimah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry. One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time
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