In a candid interview with The Mogjournals, Graziela Henrique, CEO and Founder of G Produções e Entretenimento (African Artists Agency), shares her journey as a pioneer in promoting African and Afro-Caribbean culture in Brazil. Her agency, the first to represent African artists in the country, has paved the way for countless artists over the past two decades, creating bridges across continents and fostering a vibrant exchange of cultural heritage.
The Mogjournals: Graziela, could you tell us about your beginnings and the inspiration behind founding G Produções e Entretenimento?
Graziela Henrique: Certainly. My journey started over 20 years ago with a simple but profound desire to bring African and Afro-Caribbean culture closer to the Brazilian audience.
When I founded G Produções e Entretenimento, it was the first agency in Brazil dedicated exclusively to African artists.
We wanted to give African talents a platform here, connecting audiences with the diverse and dynamic culture of Africa, which shares deep historical ties with Brazil.
The Mogjournals: You’ve collaborated with some prominent artists over the years. Can you highlight a few experiences that were especially memorable?
Graziela Henrique: I’ve had the privilege of working with many remarkable artists. One memorable collaboration was with the Cape Verdean singer Suzanna Lubrano.
Often called the Diva of Zouk, she’s a Kora Award winner and embodies the spirit of African music in every performance. Another unforgettable project was with Angolan singer Abel Duerê.
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He’s collaborated with Brazilian legends like Martinho da Vila and Alcione, which brought an exciting fusion of cultures.
Together with DJ and producer Falcão, we created the Bwé Mix compilation, released by SOM Livre and distributed exclusively in Africa through Globo Internacional.
The Mogjournals: It sounds like you’ve built a truly impressive network. Who are some of the artists currently represented by your agency?
Graziela Henrique: Thank you. Presently, we have an incredible lineup, including the celebrated Mozambican singer Nuno Abdul, who is also a host on TV Sucesso.
Another notable talent is Mahogany Beatz, a Grammy Award-winning DJ and producer, known for his work with Mariah Carey, Jay Z, and Dr. Dre. It’s thrilling to see them contribute to Brazil’s artistic landscape while connecting back to their African roots.
The Mogjournals: Beyond artist management, you’ve created cultural events such as the Zouk Africa Festival. Can you tell us more about this festival?
Graziela Henrique: The Zouk Africa Festival is very close to my heart. It’s an annual event where we celebrate African music, dance, and gastronomy.
The festival offers African artists an opportunity to showcase their talent in Brazil, fostering cultural exchange. We’ve held eight editions in Rio de Janeiro, which launched talents like Congolese choreographer Foguinho Arobaze, Angolan DJ Joss Dee, and Congolese chef Kimberly.
It’s become a vibrant space where African immigrants and other artists can connect with Brazilian audiences.
The Mogjournals: You’re also the official representative of King Olu Oje of the Onjepetu Kingdom in Nigeria. How did that come about?
Graziela Henrique: My relationship with King Olu Oje began through our shared commitment to promoting African heritage and culture.
Representing him in Brazil has been an honor and has allowed me to deepen Brazil’s cultural ties with Nigeria.
As a member of his Nigerian delegation, I received the title of Yeye Asa, which further affirms the importance of cultural exchange in my work.
The Mogjournals: Your career has been recognized with several honorary awards. Could you share some highlights?
Graziela Henrique: It’s been incredibly wonderful and inspiring. I received recognition from the City Council of Rio de Janeiro and the Best of the Year 2024 award at the Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro.
Each award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the artists and communities I represent. These moments reaffirm the impact of our mission to promote African culture in Brazil.
The Mogjournals: Looking back at your career, who are some of the prominent clients you’ve worked with?
Graziela Henrique: Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with numerous influential clients, including TV Globo, Brasil Brokers, the Consulate General of the Republic of Angola in Rio de Janeiro, and many others, such as GSA, Chatuba Materiais de Construção, and Terra Empire.
These collaborations have been essential in advancing our mission to foster cultural awareness and representation.
The Mogjournals: Graziela, thank you for sharing your inspiring journey with us. Any closing thoughts for our readers?
Graziela Henrique: Thank you, it was a pleasure! I would like to express my gratitude to all the artists, partners, and audiences who have supported our vision.
I am excited about the future of G Produções e Entretenimento and the cultural connections we’ll continue to build between Africa and Brazil. We’re just getting started!
The Mogjournals: Thank you, Graziela. We look forward to following your journey and the remarkable work of G Produções e Entretenimento.
