Staff tribute to Koyo Kouoh

In loving memory of Koyo Kouoh and a life well lived
There are some people whose presence changes everything—whose vision, kindness, and leadership ripple far beyond the spaces they occupy. Koyo Kouoh was one of those rare souls. As our Executive Director and Chief Curator, she led with generosity, an uncompromising pursuit  of excellence, and a spirit that inspired everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. To know Koyo was to be seen, heard, and valued.

Her qualities as a leader and luminary are evident in her achievements and body of work. Yet perhaps the most profound—and least easily defined—was her ability to truly see people. Regardless of role or title, she connected in a way that was both genuine and deeply human. At the core of her ethos was a belief she often shared: “People are more important than things.” It wasn’t just something she said repeatedly—it shaped how she led. Her leadership was grounded in a recognition of each person’s worth. She led with kindness and an unwavering commitment to serving artists and serving one another.

Koyo was generous with her time, her knowledge, and her insight. She inspired the community, and a culture of high standards. She reminded us that the work is not only about what we produce, but about how and why we do it. It’s about creating space, forging new paths, and understanding the urgency of doing so with integrity. For Koyo, setting the bar high was never about elitism—it was accountability: to artists, to audiences, to each other, and to the truth of the work.

She pushed us—always—to be better. Koyo never settled for anything less, she demanded criticality in every aspect of a project and from all those involved—not because she was demanding, but because she believed in our potential—sometimes more than we believed in ourselves. 

Koyo was the driving force behind a new vision for Zeitz MOCAA. She radiated joy and momentum in equal measure. When she walked into a room, everything shifted. Her presence was undeniable and luminous. Her dazzling smile lit up our offices, her laughter echoed through the silos, and her energy was infectious. She made each of us want to show up and participate fully. Despite her competitive streak—especially during games—she knew how to let her hair down and dance, believing that both laughter and  tears were essential to any process.

She had a way of making work feel like a celebration. Whether it was a staff event, a shared meal, or a quick catch-up between meetings, Koyo brought life and humour to it all, reminding us that joy has a place in serious work—and that taking our work seriously doesn’t mean taking ourselves too seriously. She was fierce, fashionable and the very definition of formidable—a woman of elegance and strength who, even in her absence, remains a compass for all of us who knew her.

Her legacy lives beyond any one project or institution. It lives on in the many people who walked part of her journey with her—those she challenged, nurtured, taught, and loved. Her gift for bringing people together and inspiring them to keep going, even when it was difficult or unpopular, is something we hold close.

In Koyo’s words, quoting an African proverb she often returned to: “If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.” 

To that we now respond: Madame, you have instilled in us the importance of going the distance—and of bringing others along. You gave your whole self to the mission of Zeitz MOCAA, to advancing contemporary art from Africa and its Diaspora, and most of all, to each and every one of us. We honour your vision, your unwavering dedication, and your belief in our ability to carry the work forward. Your spirit endures in every act of care, every principle we uphold, and in every path we forge. We are better—for having worked with you, learned from you, and known you. And so are all those whose lives will be touched by what we continue to build in your name.

May we meet again. Until then, continue to be our guide. 
Art angel, art warrior.

We love you and you will remain forever in our hearts, Koyo. 

With grace and light—always.