Etan Comics logo. Source: Etan Comics
The lively and broad range of storytelling that emanates from the continent is one of the most distinctive elements of the world of comic books in Africa. African comic books offer a distinctive perspective, gaining inspiration from the continent's rich cultural heritage, historical events, and present challenges.
African comic books, unlike mainstream Western comics, frequently integrate themes of African mythology, folklore, and local traditions. African creators use these comics to exhibit their indigenous cultures, celebrate their ancestry, and explore the nuances of African identity. The stories usually address social and political topics such as tribal conflicts, environmental concerns, and the impact of colonization, shining light on often disregarded or misunderstood experiences and in addition exploring historical heritage sites.
African comic books also feature a wide spectrum of visual styles that combine traditional African aesthetics with contemporary techniques. Artists frequently mix elaborate patterns, brilliant colors, and symbolic iconography into their work, resulting in visually spectacular and culturally rich visual narratives. We have touched on the comic book world in Uganda in this article, and with this article, we will explore the comic book world in Ethiopia.
How it all began
Since Beserat was a young kid, he used to create funny doodles accompanied with funny stories that never failed to elicit boisterous laughter from his friends. Holding that memory near and dear, Beserat continued to indulge in reading Western and Japanese comic books throughout his adult life. One day, he saw the Ethiopian version of the "Power Puff Girls" and a stinging question arose in his mind. His search was futile as he couldn't find any comic books made in Ethiopia, on Ethiopia, and by an Ethiopian. Therefore, he decided to make his own, not knowing it would go global, and certainly not knowing it would be the answer to the questions of the Ethiopian youth.
Jember the superhero. Source: Etan Comics (Facebook)
His debut creation was named 'JEMBER’, an embodiment of his aspirations and a beginning. Through ink and color, he gave life to characters and stories that resonated with his Ethiopian roots. Bringing to life tales of courage, heritage, and a world where the extraordinary meets the everyday. In this interview, we delve into the mind and direction of Beserat and his comic creations.
Andariya: What is the creative process like to come up with the storyline and characters?
Beserat: I have pitch meetings where we brainstorm ideas, but personally, I create stories that resonate with me; all stories are ways to share a lesson from one person to another person, right? We cover it with all these superhero action and visuals and everything, but it's all about sharing the things you learned and the wisdom you had in your life or experience with other people, and that's what I do. Jember is a story about finding your self-worth and letting go of other people's opinions of you. When you are somebody who feels hopeless and you find this superpower, are you somebody new. The lesson is that you have always been somebody you don't need this status or something to prove that you are somebody, and so Jember is about this kid who is learning that path and journey through this superhero story. The creative process really revolves around what I'm trying to say and what I'm trying to share.
Andariya: What challenges did you face once you published Jember?
Beserat: the imposter syndrome was a huge problem at the beginning: "Do I know what I'm doing?", "what else do I need to know?". That was one personal challenge. On the other hand, in our community (Ethiopian community), the level of awareness of comic books is not as high as it is in the Western or Japanese communities, so on top of marketing the book, I had to educate people. In addition, there weren't other comic book creators and I felt very alone in the journey; there wasn't such a thing as an Ethiopian comic book creators community.
With trepidation and hope, Beserat introduced his first comic book story JEMBER under his company Etan Comics, to the Ethiopian community. It was a leap into the unknown, a test of both his creation and his people's reception. The response, when it came, was a symphony of approval. Readers embraced JEMBER as if Beserat had breathed life into their collective dreams.
Source: Etan Comics and Pinterest (side-by-side view of Etan Comics logo and an incense burner made of clay)
Andariya: How did the name Etan Comics come about? (Etan when translated to English, means incense)
Beserat: Whenever I smell Etan whether it's during coffee ceremonies, family gatherings, or at church, I know I'm about to have a good time, and that's what I want people to feel when they read the comic books.
The first female superhero in Ethiopia (Hawi). Source: Etan Comics
Facts about Etan Comics:
- First Ethiopian Superhero Comic book
- The first edition of ‘JEMBER’ was published in 12 languages.
- Ethiopia’s very first female superhero character is named Hawi and the comic book followed JEMBER.
- Etan Comics is a Bilingual comic book, producing both English and Amharic versions.
- Recently featured in Japanese news media.
- Published more than 20 African stories inspired by African culture and history.
- The founder Beserat produces equally educational/historical and entertaining videos on Instagram and TikTok.
- Beserat is an Engineer by profession.
A page from the comic in the English language. Source: Amplify Africa
Andariya: Are there any plans/projects or works that you have in store for the readers?
Beserat: Yes we have big plans with a book coming out, it’s an 120+ page graphic novel and anthology collection of different stories by different creators from all over Africa. We have a lot of great people in it, and part of my mission when I started was to empower fellow creators to tell their stories. I am so thankful that now, 5 years in, I am finally able to do that. We are about to publish all these amazing people, give them the spotlight they deserve, and have more diverse stories. That's a very exciting project that's in the works.
In the vivid world of African comics, where culture, heritage, and contemporary challenges converge, Beserat's JEMBER serves as a beacon of creativity and inspiration. From whimsical childhood doodles to a mission to fill the void in Ethiopian comic literature, Beserat's journey is a testament to passion and purpose.
Beserat's creative process is a testament to his dedication to sharing wisdom and life lessons through captivating narratives, as seen in JEMBER's exploration of self-discovery and self-worth. The tale of Beserat's JEMBER and the birth of Ethiopian comics is not just the story of a creator; it is a cultural revival that inspires generations to dream bigger and kindles the flames of creativity for years to come.
Website: etancomics.com
Instagram: @etancomics
X (formerly Twitter): @etancomics
Youtube: Etan comics
