2023 was a year that Zebra Comics galloped through with the boundless energy of a herd of zebras on a sugar rush! Okay, maybe not literally (safety first!), but it was undoubtedly a whirlwind of activity, creativity, and some truly phenomenal achievements. While there were, of course, a few moments where the plot thickened with unforeseen challenges, we at Zebra Comics chose to focus on the glorious highlights that made this year truly unforgettable.
1. A Creative Tsunami of Comics and Webtoons
First and foremost, 2023 was a year of unleashing a creative tsunami upon the world. Over 300 brand new episodes of comics and webtoons splashed onto our app and website, spanning genres from side-splitting humor to heart-wrenching drama, and everything in between. We even launched several brand new webtoon and comic titles, each one a unique gem waiting to be discovered. And guess what? The Zebra heard your roars, and our user base galloped into the stratosphere – a testament to the sheer power and brilliance of African storytelling!
2. VIP Lounge: Zebra Comics Welcomes the Who's Who of the Creative World
Our office in Akwa became a veritable VIP lounge in 2023, as we welcomed heavyweights like Wladimir Lentzy and Benoit Fripiat from Editions Dupuis, Sebastien Punturello from Canal+, and Business France, all eager to see what the Zebra magic was all about. And let’s not forget the inspiring visits from legends like the one and only Marguerite Abouet and the indomitable Kah Walla! Their wisdom and passion fueled our creative fire like a bonfire fueled by… well, more bonfires! These encounters were not just about forging partnerships, but about connecting with the beating heart of the creative industry and drawing inspiration from those who paved the way.
3. Zebra Comics Expo: Where Campus Met Comics
Remember that time we turned the University of Douala into a comic book wonderland? The Zebra Comics Expo was a blast, giving students and staff a chance to dive headfirst into the vibrant world of Cameroonian and African comics right on their campus. Panels, workshops, expositions – it was a celebration of all things nerdy and fantastic, showcasing the power of comics to connect, inspire, and entertain. The energy on that campus was electric, and the future of African comics felt brighter than ever!
4. Taking African Webtoons to the World Stage
But Zebra Comics didn’t just stay put in Akwa. We took our high-quality African webtoons on a globetrotting adventure, attending comics conventions like the Lagos Comics Con, the Bilil BD Festival in Congo, the Forum International de la Bande Dessinée in Tétouan, Morocco and even the Rencontres Internationales de la Bande Dessinée in Angoulême, France! We showed the world what Africa has to offer in the webtoon arena, and let’s just say, jaws dropped and hearts were stolen. The sheer talent and diversity of African storytelling left an indelible mark on the international comics scene, proving that Zebra Comics is a force to be reckoned with.
5. Creation Africa Forum: Zebra Comics on the World Stage
Remember that time we got invited to Paris for the “Creation Africa Forum“? Organized by the French government, it was a chance to rub shoulders with other creative industry titans from France, Europe and across Africa. We showcased our comics, webtoons, and digital platforms, and let’s just say, the room was buzzing with excitement (and maybe a little jealousy, but hey, we’re not bitter!). This prestigious forum allowed us to connect with potential partners, investors, and collaborators, paving the way for exciting future endeavors that will propel Zebra Comics onto the global stage.
6. Meetings with the Titans: Zebra Comics Shapes the Future of Entertainment
And then there were the meetings with the big guns of the entertainment industry – Editions Dupuis, Media participations, and even the mighty Vivendi! We had some seriously mind-blowing exchanges, the kind that leave you with goosebumps and a notebook full of scribbles for future comic book masterpieces. These meetings weren’t just about courtesy calls; they were about forging strategic partnerships, sharing expertise, and laying the groundwork for collaborations that will shape the future of African entertainment. Trust us, 2023 was just the warm-up act, and the main event – starring Zebra Comics – is about to blow your socks off!
So, dear reader, buckle up. 2024 is going to be a wilder year. Keep your eyes glued to our website, app, and social media pages – we’ve got updates, new releases, and events that will make your inner comic book geek do a victory dance. Remember, Zebra Comics is where the future of comics and webtoons made in African is being written, one panel at a time. And you, dear reader, are invited to join the ride!
Shiver me timbers.