African ‘LeadHERS’ – Powering Gender Equality through fashion

Advocacy thinktank Speak Up Africa and renowned Senegalese fashion label Tongoro joined forces for African LeadHERS –  a fashion show held to amplify calls for more commitment to gender equality among stakeholders in the arts and creative sectors.

The show took place during the  Generation Equality Forum held in Paris, France recently, and was convened by UN Women, with a rallying call to propel further transformative and sustainable change on gender equality and women’s rights.

Gender equality is vital to the collective success of Africa and achieving the UN the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Currently, it is expected that gender gaps will take over 120 years to close in Sub-Saharan Africa, and over 135 years for pay and leadership equity to be reached. Since the Beijing conference on women 26 years ago, strides have been made, but there is still no broad and entrenched change.  

“Women empowerment, and the inclusion of women and girls on public platforms and in leadership, is a fundamental right and critical to our development,” said Oulimata Sarr Regional Director West and Central Africa at UN Women.

 “As part of the Generation Equality Forum’s Action Coalition on economic justice and rights, I am proud to stand for increasing women’s economic empowerment. 2021 can be a landmark year in our fight for gender equality in Africa, but we must all act for equal. It’s an honour to see so many inspirational women uniting to share their voices and experiences, as the movement for gender equality gains pace across the African continent,” she added. 

Its Founder and Executive Director Yacine Djibo, says that as a female-led organisation, Speak UP Africa is not only committed to issues that enhance gender equality but supporting meaningful actions that promote that.  

“Inspiration and empowerment take many forms, and this fashion show was a perfect example of how female-led organizations can support and uplift each other, and we are delighted to partner with Tongoro, because we share a passion for gender equality in Africa,” she said.
Launched in 2016 by the talented Sarah Diouf, Tongoro is a 100% made in Africa label designed and produced in Dakar, Senegal.

Tongoro apparel has become an international sensation loved by A-star celebrities such as Beyonce, (who wore Tongoro in her groundbreaking Lion King- The Gift), Naomi Campbel, Alicia Keyes, Burner Boy, Iman and many more. In 2020, the brand was also amongst Fast Company’s 50 most innovative companies of the year.

Tongoro not only sources its materials in Africa but also works with local artisans and tailors.

 “Fashion has long been recognized as a way to empower women; for many of us clothes are not simply to be worn, they are also used to make a statement. I’ve worked with and dressed many inspiring and strong women throughout my career, and it’s a pleasure to do so in support of the Generation Equality Forum. Through this show, and the other activities taking place across Africa, we are striving to improve gender equality and craft the continent’s future,” said Diouf.