Annie Lennox and Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu on speaking out, activism, empathy, and finding a voice in a divided world
Annie Lennox and Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu on speaking out, activism, empathy, and finding a voice in a divided world
Annie Lennox recently sat down with Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu for a thoughtful and honest conversation that goes well beyond music, touching on activism, identity and the realities of the world today.
Dr Shola is a British-Nigerian lawyer, author and commentator, widely known for her work on human rights, race and feminism. She brings a direct and passionate voice to public debate, which makes her an ideal counterpart for Annie’s more reflective style.
From the start, the conversation feels open and genuine. The two share a natural connection, and that helps the discussion flow between big global issues and more personal reflections.
A big focus is the question of speaking out. Dr Shola challenges the idea of silence, asking whether staying quiet in the face of injustice can ever be acceptable. Annie’s response is honest. She admits that while she wishes more people would speak up, she also understands why many feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start. Her approach is not to judge, but to encourage people to think, question and engage in their own way.
What comes through clearly is that activism does not look the same for everyone. Dr Shola is more direct and confrontational when needed, especially when facing misinformation. Annie takes a quieter route, choosing conversation over conflict where possible. Despite their different styles, they share the same core values and a determination to keep pushing for change.
The discussion also explores how Annie balances her role as an artist with her work as an activist. She explains that the two are not separate. It is simply part of who she is. That comes with challenges, including criticism and personal attacks, but she speaks about the importance of resilience and staying focused on what matters.
There are moments where the conversation turns deeply personal. Annie talks about her lifelong empathy and how her experiences have shaped her worldview. She also reflects on learning more about privilege over time, and how that understanding has evolved through her work with The Circle, the global feminist organisation she co-founded. Supporting women at grassroots level, and helping create lasting change, remains a central part of her mission.
What ties the whole conversation together is a shared belief in our common humanity. Both Annie and Dr Shola come back to the idea that empathy, understanding and connection are key, even in a world that often feels divided.
It is a powerful exchange, full of insight but also very human in tone.
Watch or listen to the full conversation to hear Annie and Dr Shola in their own words.
