Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in your field?

Absolutely! My name is L. N. Bokete, and I'm an author and screenplay writer with a diverse portfolio that includes the Totem Spirit Walker Series, Tokoloshe, and Pisces Family, along with several web series on my YouTube channel such as Flash Marriage to a Snake, Burning Embers, and Black Sparrow. I've always had a passion for storytelling, and even though I was born in the USA I had the privilege of living in multiple Southern African countries. I was surrounded by rich cultural narratives that sparked my imagination. This early exposure to folklore and African mythology  though my father inspired me to pursue a career in writing, aiming to share these unique stories with the world. My journey in screenplay was a desire to see more diverse stories being shared on screen.

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What inspired you to pursue a career in writing?

My inspiration came from a deep love of storytelling and a desire to provide an African twist to some of the western Fantasy stories I enjoyed. This then resulted in me looking at how can we bring some of African folklore to life, which can be seen in Totem, Spirit Walker and Tokoloshe.. From a young age, I was captivated by the stories my dad told me, full of mythical creatures and heroic figures. This fascination with folklore, combined with my love for reading, naturally evolved into a passion for writing. I wanted to create stories that not only entertained but also educated and inspired others, especially the younger generation.

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Who are some of your biggest influences and inspirations in your career?

I've been influenced by a blend of traditional storytellers from my childhood and contemporary authors who push the boundaries of genre and narrative. Writers like Chinua Achebe and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o have profoundly impacted my understanding of African literature. Additionally, the works of fantasy authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Neil Gaiman inspire me to weave the fantastical with the real, creating worlds that resonate on multiple levels.

Could you share some of the challenges you’ve faced in your journey and how you overcame them?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was finding a platform and audience for my stories. African fantasy and folklore are often underrepresented in mainstream media, which made it difficult to gain recognition initially. To overcome this, I leveraged social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok to showcase my work and connect with a global audience. Building a community of like-minded individuals who appreciated my stories helped me gain momentum. Additionally, navigating the complexities of self-publishing and marketing my books was a steep learning curve, but it taught me valuable skills in entrepreneurship and resilience.

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What are some of the key projects you’ve worked on that you are most proud of?

I'm incredibly proud of all my projects, but the Totem Spirit Walker Series holds a special place in my heart. It's a series deeply rooted in African mythology, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the supernatural. Additionally, my web series Burning Embers has been a unique venture that blends more extreme fantasy talking about vampires, resonating with a diverse audience. Lastly, creating content for my YouTube channel has been a fulfilling experience, allowing me to experiment with different genres and storytelling techniques. For example, I am currently exploring the idea of an alien love story.

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How do you see the role of AI in transforming the creative industry, particularly in Africa?

AI has the potential to revolutionize the creative industry in Africa by democratizing access to tools and resources that were previously out of reach for many creatives. AI can assist in everything from content generation and editing to marketing and distribution, making it easier for African creators to produce and share their work globally. I work with Modernly Native, which harnesses AI to bring authors' books to life, spotlighting African talent and ensuring our stories reach a wider audience. This technological advancement can help preserve cultural heritage and innovate traditional storytelling methods. It also gives my content a visually rich layer.

What advice would you give to aspiring creatives looking to enter the industry?

My advice to aspiring creatives is to stay true to your voice and heritage. The world is hungry for diverse stories, and your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Leverage digital platforms to showcase your work, and don't be afraid to experiment and learn from feedback. Persistence is key; the road can be challenging, but every setback is an opportunity to grow and refine your craft. Surround yourself with a supportive community and continuously seek out new learning opportunities.

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Can you describe a typical day in your life as a writer?

A typical day in my life as a writer involves a blend of creativity and discipline. I start my day early with some quiet time to meditate and plan my tasks. Mornings are dedicated to writing and brainstorming new ideas. I often spend a few hours drafting chapters, outlining plots, or developing characters. Afternoons are reserved for content creation for my YouTube and TikTok channels, engaging with my audience, and collaborating with my team at Modernly Native. Evenings are usually spent reading, researching, or editing my work. Balancing different projects keeps my days dynamic and fulfilling.

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What future projects or goals are you most excited about?

One of the projects I am most excited about is my upcoming film, "The Story of Finding Themba." This story delves into a deeply personal and adventurous journey that intertwines elements of mystery, family, and betrayal. The story follows a young protagonist named Themba, who sets out on a quest to uncover the truth about his past. What excites me the most about this project is the opportunity to explore themes of male mental health, a topic that most Africans shy away from but need to explore more openingly.

How do you believe your work contributes to the cultural landscape of Africa?

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I believe my work contributes to the cultural landscape of Africa by preserving and promoting our rich heritage through contemporary narratives. By blending traditional folklore with modern themes, I aim to bridge the gap between past and present, making these stories accessible and relatable to a global audience. My content not only entertains but also educates, fostering a deeper appreciation for African culture and its diverse narratives. Through my stories, I hope to inspire a new generation of African writers and creatives to share their unique voices with the world.

For more about my work, visit my website and follow me on TikTok for behind-the-scenes content and updates on my latest projects