#TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou takes back the continent's image

Africa is one of the world's most naturally beautiful and culturally vibrant continents. Unfortunately, it has long fallen victim to the media's biased manipulations. By only portraying it as a war-torn victim full of disease, famine and poverty, the media has buried one of the world's wonders under piles of stereotypes stripping it of its true self.

In an effort to take back the narrative, 22-year-old Somali Diana Salah decided to launch the social media campaign #TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou to use the power of new media to show the world the real Africa, the one she and millions of other Africans experience through their own eyes every single day, one marked by beauty and diversity.

“I got involved because growing up, I was made to feel ashamed of my homeland, with negative images that paint Africa as a desolate continent. It’s so important to showcase the diversity and beauty of Africa and with the mainstream media not up for the task, social media was the perfect outlet,” Salah explained to Fusion.

With over 2,500 Instagram posts and even more tweets that showcase the continent's scenery, luxury and culture, it's safe to say that this campaign is definitely a successful one. Here are 15 of the best posts with that showcase the many features of #TheAfricaTheMediaNeverShowsYou.

Majestic mountain scenery is not something you often see on TV when someone brings up Africa.

Some would be surprised to see a photo of an African child who's healthy, happy and smiling.

A phenomenon completely ignored by the media is Africa's growing economy.

Aspects of the continent's culturally rich diversity are often ignored by the media, like these beautiful wedding gowns.

Lake Retba in Senegal is one of the world's few pink lakes, which are caused by the presence of Dunaliella Salina algae that produces a red pigment to assist in absorbing light.

A traveler sharing a photo of luxurious hotel breakfast, showing a different side of the continent so often labelled as hungry.

This beautiful photo shows members of an African running group that runs marathons in Africa on a casual morning jog by the beach.

Did we mention Egypt? That beautiful north African country that the media often forgets is a part of this gorgeous continent.

Rwanda's extremely beautiful hill scenery is heaven for travelers and tourists alike.

The African Renaissance Monument in Senegal is the tallest statue in Africa and a great example of the continent's long history and architectural heritage.

This post about a community project through which young people participate in making movies showcases engaged and fulfilled African communities, not ones torn by grief and pain.

Let's face it, with its breathtaking beaches, mountains and waterfalls, Africa is actually the most gorgeous place in the world.

The "Boomslang" is an arboreal "bridge" tucked between about 430 trees that offers breathtaking views of South Africa's mountains.

Definitely invisible in the media is African countries' thriving fashion industry.

Africa may not be the richest continent in the world, but it's using its massive potential to become one.