Her real name is Awonga Regia Debora, but she is better known as Debora Sylvana—a Togolese writer, screenwriter, designer, and event planner. Passionate about art in all its forms, she strives to use her talent to positively impact her generation. The author of several works such as L’Ouragan de mon mariage (The Storm of My Marriage), Sur notre route (On Our Way), Les épreuves d’une vie (The Trials of a Life), and Atteindre les étoiles (Reaching for the Stars), she addresses a variety of themes while staying connected to her African roots.

As the founder of the clothing brand WAB KONCEPT and the decoration agency Debora Sylvana Décor, she embodies a new generation of versatile creators who use art to celebrate culture.

__ You come from a tribe where storytelling, singing, and dancing are central to daily life. How have these experiences shaped your writing style?

I come from a northern tribe, specifically in Kantè, where storytelling, singing, and dancing are deeply embedded in everyday life. During my childhood, end-of-year celebrations were very special moments spent with family. My grandmother would captivate us during those evenings with African folktales and songs. Those moments awakened in me a deep love for storytelling and helped me develop a natural ability to tell stories, much more easily than most children my age. Later, this influence enriched my writing and shaped my approach to storytelling.

__ Your writing seems deeply influenced by African traditions and beliefs. How do they integrate into your stories?

I see literature as a spiritual form of art, and I am very mindful of what I write. In my stories, I always strive to incorporate elements of African culture. This can manifest through character names, African proverbs, or dialogues written in local languages. It is my way of keeping our rich cultural heritage alive and sharing it with others.

__ In your opinion, what role does literature play in preserving and transmitting African cultures?

Literature is, above all, a powerful tool for raising awareness. It can help people understand that everything from Africa deserves to be valued. It is essential for literature to reconnect African people with their identity and encourage them to take pride in it. Once this reconnection is achieved, it becomes an indispensable tool for transmitting African traditions and values, ensuring they endure over time.

__ Is there a particular book or article of yours that reflects your commitment to African traditions or your personal values?

Not yet. I am still in the process of reconnecting with my own African values. This takes time and a lot of learning. However, I am confident that one day, when I feel ready, I will write a book or article that fully embodies the values and traditions that inspire me so much.

A complete artist who continues to reinvent herself to honor her roots while inspiring future generations.