A just cause: Fashion show in aid of albinos

A group of designers are collaborating in a fashion show to raise funds for alleviating challenges faced by people with albinism.

The brains behind the initiative, Nelly Donga, is working with other designers, including Godwill, Felicia Ngoma, Alinafe Naphu Misomali and teenage sensation Tawile Tazma Kumsinda.

Donga says there are a number of challenges children with albinism are facing which stop them from going to school; hence, the initiative.

Apart from a certain amount of the funds to be raised going to the Association of People with Albinism in Malawi (Apam), each designer will make 100 brim hats to be donated to Apam for school going children.

“Some of the funds realised from entry fees will go to Apam for other needs. We don’t have a percentage, but we know the items they need help with like sun lotion, umbrellas, sunglasses, hats. So, it’s easy to determine; the bigger the turn up the better the contribution,” said Donga.

The remainder of the money will go towards her trip next month to Ghana where she is representing Malawi at one of the best events in Africa attracting 40 countries, the Mercedes-Benz fashion event in Accra on July 11.

“The trip is self-sponsored and I need about K3 million [$4 196] for it to materialise. I am not banking much on the event, but sponsors that I have and I am meeting for support. The little I will get from the event will still push me though,” she said.

Malawi’s new make-up line SAC will also be launched during the fashion event as well as a jewellery label.

“Fawzia Osman will launch her Mkanda line, made from local beads and SAC will do makeup for all designers and models. They will also do make up for all those who will arrive an hour before the event,” she explained.

The show takes place on June 24 at Bingu International Conference Centre (Bicc) in Lilongwe.