A recent event titled “Storytelling Hangout,” organized by ThinkStories Africa, drew communication professionals and storytelling enthusiasts across the continent to discuss the impact of generative AI on creative processes. The panel featured a diverse range of experts, including Felene Cayetano, Porsché Mysticque Steele, and Nana Nyarko Boateng, who collectively expressed concerns over the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence by creatives. While acknowledging the utility of generative AI, the panelists raised alarms about the potential loss of the human touch in storytelling, emphasizing that creative work rooted in genuine emotional connections cannot be fully replicated by AI technologies.
Nana Nyarko Boateng advocated for viewing generative AI as a tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. She noted that while AI can provide valuable starting points for writers who may struggle with outlining, it cannot evoke the emotional depth that human-created stories possess. She warned that an overreliance on AI might result in narratives that, although coherent and structurally sound, ultimately lack the unique emotional resonance that only a human creator can provide. Boateng also highlighted concerns about originality in AI-generated content, pointing out that such outputs rely heavily on existing patterns and databases, which limit the uniqueness of the narrative perspective.
Porsché Mysticque Steele shared insights from her experience as a book coach, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for AI among clients. However, she emphasized the critical need for education on ethical and responsible AI practices in storytelling. Steele noted that many digital platforms have begun taking down books entirely written by generative AI, which further underscores the importance of understanding the role of AI in creative writing. She criticized the reliance on AI as a complete solution, focusing instead on educating creatives to utilize AI effectively in tandem with their personal creativity.
The discussion turned to the challenges faced by professionals like copywriters and editors, as generative AI increasingly encroaches upon traditional roles in the industry. Steele articulated her struggle in navigating client expectations who favor AI-generated content. She highlighted the challenge of imparting the necessity of maintaining a personal creative touch, as relying solely on AI compromises the integrity and authenticity of the work. For her, the objective is to demonstrate to creatives that while AI can serve as a helpful instrument, the essence of the storytelling process should remain rooted in human imagination and emotion.
Felene Cayetano provided additional perspectives concerning the inaccuracies that can result from using generative AI in content production. She recounted an instance where AI-generated content contradicted the core message of a client’s vegan-focused book, illustrating a significant risk associated with uncritical reliance on AI. Although she acknowledged that AI can expedite the creative process, Cayetano stressed the importance of maintaining intellectual integrity and delivering true messages. She urged professionals to consider the importance of thoughtful engagement with their audience, rather than simply opting for faster results.
Founded by Samuel Osei, ThinkStories Africa aims to enhance knowledge sharing, networking, and skill improvement among African communicators while promoting the art of storytelling. The organization seeks to amplify diverse narratives from the continent, encouraging a broader conversation on how storytelling can effectively contribute to building and influencing global brands. In this light, the gathering highlighted the ongoing dialogue about the integration of generative AI in creative work, reinforcing the sentiment that the essence of storytelling is deeply rooted in human experiences and connections, regardless of technological advancements. The discussions emphasized not just the potential benefits of AI but also the inherent risks that come with a diminished human touch in creative expression.
