Divine Paths SHARIF HILL

My Story

Born in Brooklyn and raised in Freeport, NY, Sharif Kariem Hill-Dunning was captivated by the power of visuals from an early age. Whether it was the bold graphics of video games, the striking layouts of magazines, or the seamless fusion of art and technology, design spoke to him in a way nothing else did.

Determined to turn his passion into a career, Sharif immersed himself in the world of graphic design, mastering Adobe Creative Suite and refining his skills in digital illustration, branding, and photography. Over the past decade, he has built a diverse portfolio, bringing ideas to life through sleek logos, dynamic social media campaigns, and immersive digital artwork.

While pursuing his degree in Visual Communications at Farmingdale State College, Sharif’s dedication and talent earned him multiple accolades, including the Graphic Communications GCSF Scholarship and a place on the Dean’s List. His time in school not only sharpened his technical expertise but also deepened his ability to tell stories through design. Beyond the classroom, Sharif balanced his studies with hands-on experience freelancing as a graphic designer and photographer while working as a bindery operator. These roles refined his ability to juggle multiple projects, meet tight deadlines, and bring a meticulous eye to every detail. Whether operating high-precision printing equipment or crafting digital masterpieces, his work ethic and adaptability set him apart.

Now, as he steps into the next chapter of his career, Sharif is eager to bring his creative vision to a dynamic team that values innovation and bold design. His mission is simple: to craft visuals that don’t just look good but leave a lasting impact.

With every project, every illustration, and every brand he helps shape, Sharif continues to push the boundaries of his artistry turning ideas into unforgettable designs.

The Problem

Across generations, the voices of African gods and the echoes of sacred traditions have grown quiet. Once, they were ever-present, woven into the stories told by elders, carried through songs, symbols, and rituals that connected people to something greater than themselves. These myths weren’t just tales but lifelines to strength, wisdom, and purpose. But as time passed and cultural connections were disrupted, many Black and Brown people in America found themselves adrift, distant from the stories that once rooted their ancestors in pride and belonging.

In America, mythology is everywhere. From childhood, we learn about Zeus and Poseidon, Hercules and Odin. Roman and Greek myths are woven into our school lessons, Norse gods are brought to life in movies, and Egyptian deities appear in books and television. These stories are celebrated, retold, and reimagined, ensuring they are never forgotten. But when it comes to African mythology West African deities, the Orishas, the legends that shaped entire civilizations there is a silence. Their names are rarely spoken in classrooms. Their stories do not fill blockbuster films. And because of this, many Black and Brown children grow up without knowing the powerful myths of their own ancestors.

Without these stories, something vital has been lost. A sense of identity becomes harder to grasp. Confidence in one’s roots fades into uncertainty. The knowledge that greatness runs through the veins of a people who once spoke to the gods and shaped the forces of nature becomes distant a truth left buried beneath generations of forgetfulness. Without these connections, it becomes easier to feel small, to wonder where one truly belongs in the vast expanse of history.

But what if these stories could be found again? What if the gods of the past could be more than whispers what if they could become living, breathing parts of today’s world?

That is where the journey begins...

My idea is an educational board game designed to bring back the gods, myths, and traditions of West Africa in a way that sparks curiosity and self-discovery. Through immersive storytelling and interactive gameplay, players both young and old will embark on an adventure to reclaim lost wisdom. They will meet the gods, understand their powers, and see the ways in which these legends mirror their own struggles and triumphs. This game is more than entertainment; it’s a bridge to a past that was never truly lost, only waiting to be rediscovered.

Product/ Service Description

In ancient Yoruba culture, masks played a significant role in spiritual and ceremonial practices, especially within the context of the Orisha, the

deities representing forces of nature and human experiences. Orisha masks were intricately crafted to embody the essence and personality of specific deities, often adorned with vivid colors, elaborate carvings, and symbolic motifs. These masks were not mere artistic objects but served as conduits for divine energy during rituals, dances, and festivals. They were used to honor the Orisha, facilitate communication between the spiritual and earthly realms, and provide protection, guidance, or blessings to the community. Through the masked performances, the wearer was believed to be possessed by the Orisha, temporarily becoming a physical representation of the deity to deliver messages, wisdom, or healing. This practice underscored the Yoruba people’s deep connection to spirituality, art, and the natural world.

Divine Paths is a strategic storytelling board game where players immerse themselves in African mythology, navigating a sacred map while rolling dice, using special abilities, and encountering the wisdom and trials of the Orishas. As they progress, they experience both ire (good fortune) and ibi (misfortune), reflecting the cosmic balance that shapes Yoruba tradition. Each turn is an opportunity to interact with divine forces, harness blessings, overcome setbacks, and collect fragments of mythological knowledge that deepen their understanding of the legendary tales. The journey is not about reaching a final destination but about shaping a unique spiritual narrative where fate and choice intertwine, leaving players with enriched insight into the rich lore of the Orishas. With every decision, they absorb elements of African mythology, learning proverbs, moral lessons, and the intricate relationships between gods and mortals. Through challenges, victories, and unexpected twists, players emerge from Divine Paths with a newfound appreciation for Yoruba traditions, carrying the wisdom of their in-game experiences into the real world.

How might we help Black and Brown communities reconnect with African gods and traditions to strengthen their cultural identity? This board game is a step toward answering that question one story, one roll of the dice, and one connection at a time.

The School: Olympian Gods: The School is a YouTube show that re-imagines Greek mythology in a modern, school-based mythological themes with relatable teen viewers to ancient myths, while exploring