Casablanca - Five Moroccans, each representing a particular realm of expertise, have made their way to Jeune Afrique magazine’s recent list of the 50 most influential African people in the world.
Casablanca – Five Moroccans, each representing a particular realm of expertise, have made their way to Jeune Afrique magazine’s recent list of the 50 most influential African people in the world.
As one might expect, Moroccan mega-producer Nadir Khiat (a.k.a. RedOne), is among the 50 most internationally influential African personalities listed by Jeune Afrique magazine. Redone, who ranked 10th on the list, is mainly recognized for having brought American diva Lady Gaga to the spotlight by producing her very first worldwide hits.
Another Moroccan on the list of influential African personalities is the 38-year-old humorist Jamal Debbouze. Born in Paris, Jamal is famous for the usually defiant, politics-centered themes he casts light on in his stand-up comedy routines. He is also known for his love of the culture of his country of origin, Morocco. His smart humor, spontaneity and caprice have made of him one of the most recognizable Moroccan celebrities worldwide. He ranked 14 on the list.
In the realm of economics, Morocco’s representative on Jeune Afrique’s list is Mostafa Terrab, CEO of l’Office Chérifien des Phosphates (OCP). Since 2006, Mostafa Terrab has been leading the world’s largest phosphate reserve. A role model for all burgeoning Moroccan and African leaders, Terrab deservedly makes it to the list of the most influential of African personalities. He ranked 25th on the list.
Besides music and comedy, distinguished Moroccan author and poet Tahar Ben Jelloun figures on Jeune Afrique Magazine’s list as one of the most influential African professional writers it is He was ranked 31st. Born in 1944, in the spiritual city of Fez, Tahar Ben Jelloun grew up to excel in the literary depiction of reality. The wealth of literary works Tahar has generated so far reflects the boundless imagination with which he is endowed. His awards and distinctions also mirror his literary genius.
Also on Jeune Afrique’s list of influential personalities is former Moroccan hurdler Nawal El Moutawakel, one of Morocco’s ambassadors of accomplishment in sports at the international level. El Moutawakel is mainly accredited for being the first female Muslim born on the African continent to become an Olympic champion. The golden medal she earned during the 1984 Olympic Games held in Los Angeles, and her membership in the International Olympic Committee all attest to her distinguished achievements.
Edited by Elisabeth Myers
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