What Now? with Trevor Noah Meet Derek Fordjour – One of My Favorite People [VIDEO]
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May 8, 2025 
Derek Fordjour, an interdisciplinary artist celebrated for his evocative paintings and sculptures, joins Trevor Noah for a captivating conversation. They dive into the significance of storytelling in shaping identity and the cultural nuances faced by Ghanaian immigrants in America. The duo shares personal childhood memories while reflecting on heritage and the complexities of racial identity. They also explore the value perception in the art world, the historical contributions of Black artists, and the role of humor and connection in their creative journeys.
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Holding Hands as Communication
- In Ghana, it's normal for bosses and subordinates of the same sex to hold hands as a sign of familiarity and communication.
- Trevor Noah connected this to similar cultural practices in South Africa and the Middle East, highlighting varied male bonding rituals.
Village-Supported Immigrant Dreams
- Derek's father was supported by his village to move to America to become a doctor.
- His mother moved to England for nursing, illustrating immigrant journeys fueled by communal sacrifice and ambition.
Black Identity and Division
- The splintering between African and African American student groups reflects the flattening of diverse black identities.
- Collective advocacy suffers due to fragmentation within the diaspora despite the need for unity.