Dogo Skillz: The Artist Using Music and Philanthropy to Unite Africa and the World
From Nairobi to Dubai, Dogo Skillz is reshaping global culture with purpose, rhythm, and representation.
Can you introduce yourself to our audience and take us through your journey from your roots in Kenya to building a global presence in Dubai’s creative and philanthropic scenes?
I’m Dogo Skillz, born in Kenya, raised by resilience and driven by purpose. From performing in Nairobi to impacting lives across Africa, I’ve grown into an international artist, creative entrepreneur, and humanitarian. Now based in Dubai, I fuse creativity, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship to tell our stories on global stages while uplifting communities that shaped me.
Music has always been a powerful tool for storytelling and cultural expression. How do you use your music to celebrate African identity while bridging the cultural richness of Dubai and Kenya?
My music is a love letter to Africa, rooted in rhythm, truth, and soul.
By blending Swahili, Afrobeat, and global sounds, I honor our heritage while connecting with Dubai’s multicultural energy. It’s about building bridges that let our stories dance across continents unapologetically and proudly.
Through the Dogo Skillz Foundation, you’ve impacted many underprivileged communities. Can you share a moment or story that deeply reflects the transformative power of your philanthropic work?
We’ve toured over 500+ children’s homes in Kenya, but one moment that stayed with me was in Kawangware, Nairobi. A young boy, after receiving food, looked up and said, “One day I want to be like you.” That humbled me. It hit deep because I was once that child, just like him.
I grew up in difficult conditions raised by a single mother, with no guarantee of tomorrow. That sentence reminded me that our work isn’t just about giving, it’s about sparking belief, restoring dignity, and planting seeds of purpose.
As an artist and entrepreneur championing Black excellence, what inspired the launch of DS Modeling Agency DXB, and how do you see it reshaping global perceptions of African beauty and talent?
DS Modeling Agency DXB was born from a vision to champion Black excellence and redefine global beauty standards. I saw a need for authentic representation, a world-class platform that celebrates African and Afro-Middle Eastern talent.
As an artist and entrepreneur, I saw the need for authentic representation and this agency is my way of amplifying our stories, style, and influence on a global stage. We’re not just scouting models; we’re shifting culture and excellence. DS Modeling Agency DXB was born from a vision to showcase African & Middle East’s beauty, strength and elegance on luxury global platforms. I believe our stories and looks deserve to lead global fashion, not follow it.
You’re deeply rooted in both the music scene and community empowerment. How do you balance these worlds, and what role do you believe artists play in driving social change across Africa and the diaspora?
To me, music and impact are one voice. I balance them by letting each fuel the other. My stage is my platform and my cause is my calling. Artists have a sacred role: to awaken, unite, and inspire. We are the mirror, the movement, and the voice.
You’ve worked with Grammy members and iconic African figures to foster cross-cultural collaborations. What does this global vision mean to you, and how do you ensure it always uplifts African heritage and voices?
Collaboration is powerful but representation matters most. I always bring Africa to the table: her rhythms, colors, and truths.
My vision is global, but my heart beats Africa. I want our culture to travel, our voices to echo, and our presence to expand without losing the soul of where we began.
As someone bridging continents and cultures, what is your message to African creatives, youth, and future leaders?
Own your story. Never dilute your roots for global appeal, amplify them. Africa isn’t behind; she’s the blueprint.
To every young creative: you are enough, your culture is enough, and your voice is needed. Build, dream and rise, the world is watching.
