Kalista Sy
Author: Nikki Iyayi
Kalista Sy's pioneering series Maitresse d'Un Homme Marié (Mistress of a Married Man) (2019) shattered the mould of Senegalese media, striking at the intersection of tradition, feminism and modernity.
As the director and visionary behind the series, Sy not only carved out a space for Senegalese women to shine on screen but also challenged societal norms and sparked crucial conversations about female identity and sexuality.
Sy's remarkable journey began as a self-taught writer, crafting an adaptation of MDHM into a television screenplay in 2016. Her vision resonated with Serigne Massamba Ndour, a prominent Senegalese producer, who brought the series to life in 2019. Launched on Marodi TV, Africa's first online platform with replay functionality, MDHM quickly amassed a staggering 6.3 million views on the pilot episode alone, a testament to the show's profound impact. This success story shows that Africans enthusiastically embrace content created by their own, as evidenced by Marodi TV's 2.7 billion video views – a clear challenge to the long-standing dominance of Western narratives and a powerful force fostering cultural pride.
MDHM’s groundbreaking portrayal of female agency and exploration of themes like polygamy and sexual liberation did not go unnoticed by conservative segments of society. Just a week after its launch, the series faced fierce backlash from the Comité de Défense des Valeurs Morales au Sénégal (Committee of Defence of Moral Values in Senegal), who deemed it "shocking, indecent, and obscene." This unprecedented controversy revealed the significance of MDHM as a trailblazer – a show crafted by women, for women, with a narrative centred around their experiences. It delved into the complexities of womanhood, love, resilience, and the everyday struggles faced by women not only in Senegal but across Africa and beyond.
Sy's unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries and defying convention has earned her international recognition. In 2019, she was rightfully included in BBC's prestigious list of 100 inspiring and influential women worldwide. This accolade solidified her position as a leading voice for change, not just in Senegal but across continents.
In 2021, she launched Kalista TV, introducing her second online series to audiences yearning for raw and authentic storytelling. Through her work, Sy directly confronts deeply entrenched societal norms in Senegal. One such example is her deliberate exclusion of her characters seeking traditional means of spiritual guidance for psychological issues. Instead, she boldly portrays characters seeking professional mental health support, sparking crucial conversations about well-being in a culture where such discussions are often shrouded in silence and stigma.
Beyond these specific examples, Sy's influence extends far beyond the screen. She has become a role model for aspiring female filmmakers across Africa, inspiring them to pursue their creative visions and challenge the status quo. Sy's impact transcends national borders, resonating with audiences worldwide. MDHM has been dubbed in multiple languages and obtained international acclaim, cultivating cross-cultural understanding and sparking conversations about universal themes that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. The series has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of women's experiences, its exploration of complex societal issues, and its ability to entertain and provoke thought in equal measure.
Sy's unwavering vision and exceptional storytelling powers have not only redefined Senegalese media but also ignited a powerful movement for social change. By amplifying female voices and challenging the status quo, Sy has paved the way for a future where diverse narratives and authentic experiences take centre stage, not just in Senegal but throughout the world. Her journey, and with every captivating story she tells, she continues to inspire and empower a generation of storytellers and viewers alike. As Sy herself has stated, "We need more stories told by Africans, for Africans, and for the world." Through her unwavering dedication and groundbreaking work, Kalista Sy is ensuring that these narratives are not only told but also heard and celebrated on an international level.