Colleagues,

I am in the planning stages of a speakers' series proposed for Spring 2012 that will focus on African issues and Africa in the media.  I am wondering if anyone has any recommendations for the following topics experts:
* human trafficking
*micro-businesses (on the Continent) and strategic business opportunities between U.S. & Africa
*future of African media -- radio? newspapers? social media sites? new media?
* natural resources and geopolitical implications
* image of Africa in the media -- stereotypes or realism?

I also am interested in any referrals for work by African-born filmmakers for a mini-film festival....

Thanks for chewing on this while you enjoy your Thanksgiving break!
Sincerely,
Meta