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March is a time to reflect, recognise, and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women who are shaping our world. This International Women’s History Month, Africa Matters is amplifying the voices of African women leaders and organisations driving transformative change across the continent, ensuring that their contributions are seen, heard, and honoured.
Our first feature for this month highlights an inspiring organisation in Malawi. In a context where young women face barriers to education, economic opportunities, and leadership, one initiative is using an unexpected yet powerful tool for change—fashion. The Sustainable Fashion and Women Empowerment Initiative is transforming lives by equipping African girls and women with the skills to challenge gender inequalities, achieve financial independence, and advocate for their rights.
Fashion as a Catalyst for Change
Fashion is often seen as an industry of aesthetics, but in the hands of this organisation, it becomes an instrument of economic empowerment, advocacy, and sustainability. Their mission is simple yet powerful:
To equip African women with skills in sustainable tailoring and entrepreneurship, allowing them to take charge of their financial futures.
To empower adolescent girls with critical life skills, enabling them to navigate life with confidence and resilience.
To advocate for gender equality, ensuring that women’s voices are not just included in the conversation but leading it.
Transforming Lives Through Action
Through its innovative approach, the organisation has implemented life-changing initiatives that have directly benefited over 300 women and girls.
One of its flagship programs, Empower Her Now, has provided comprehensive training in sustainable tailoring and entrepreneurial skills, enabling young women to gain financial independence and step into leadership roles within their communities.
Recognising the importance of holistic development, the Life Skills Development Program focuses on equipping adolescent girls with essential skills such as self-awareness, goal setting, and emotional intelligence. This has significantly boosted their confidence and ability to advocate for their rights in various spheres.
Beyond individual empowerment, the organisation is actively engaged in advocacy and movement building. Through initiatives such as the Shift Campaign and Girl-Led Movement Building, they have driven policy discussions and community-led solutions to address systemic gender inequalities.
Why This Initiative Stands Out
This organisation deserves recognition because it uniquely leverages fashion to solve complex, intersectional issues. Their approach addresses not only economic empowerment but also education disparities, gender-based violence, and climate sustainability. By equipping women with practical skills and leadership tools, they are fostering lasting change across multiple sectors.
Fun fact: The founder of this organisation, Thandie Chisi, is an Africa Matters 2022 ShE Leader who developed this initiative as her Community Engagement Project (CEP). We are incredibly proud to see its expansive growth over the years.
To learn more and an opportunity to support their work please check out their social media platforms:
🔗 Facebook: Sustainable Fashion & Women Empowerment
🔗 Instagram: @sustainablefashion90
Join Us in Celebrating Women Trailblazers!
This International Women’s History Month, we invite you to celebrate and support the incredible women shaping Africa’s future.
Do you know a woman leader or organisation making a difference in your community? Nominate them today: Nomination Form
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