Celebrate Women’s Strength at The Waka Waka Event in Charleston
Charleston, S.C. is gearing up for an event that promises to be both uplifting and inspiring as women artisans from across Africa take center stage at _The Waka Waka_. This exciting annual fundraiser, hosted by the _Ibu Movement_, is set for _March 7, 2025_, just in time to coincide with the celebrations around International Women’s Day.
Empowering Women Through Art
The focus of this much-anticipated event is to empower women artisans, emphasizing their amazing skills and artistry. “All year, I look forward to this opportunity around International Women’s Day when women from all over the country – and this time, from Africa as well – come together to celebrate our oneness,” says Susan Hull Walker, one of the founding members of the Ibu Movement. This year’s event is extra special, with artisans coming from places like _Nigeria_, _London_, and _Kenya_ to share their marvelous stories of resilience and triumph.
So what does “Waka Waka” mean? It’s a term from the Cameroonian _Fang Language_ that means to “just do it.” This phrase encapsulates the _fierce determination_ of the talented women artisans who balance their craft with their everyday lives. They don’t just create art; they also forge connections that uplift their communities.
Exciting Events Planned
The event will feature a _Women in Africa Mini Summit_, packed with three engaging sessions right at the Charleston Library Society on _March 7_. This summit is set to dive into discussions covering heritage, artisan design, the impact of women leaders, and plenty more. Some amazing speakers include Beatrice Lempaira from BeadWORKS Kenya, who will talk about preserving crafts and the importance of women artisans earning a living wage.
Other notable speakers include renowned photographers _Carol Beckwith_ and _Angela Fisher_, who will present their lifetime of work capturing Africa’s beautiful ceremonial life. Additionally, _Hafsat Abiola_ will share her incredible journey of overcoming hardships after losing both of her parents due to her country’s struggles with democracy.
Fashion, Shopping, and a Delicious Dinner Gala
In addition to the enriching summit, attendees can indulge in a delightful fashion and shopping experience featuring unique designs inspired by Ibu’s artisan patterns. The evening will culminate with a spectacular seated dinner gala at the _Festival Hall_ in Charleston, where guests can savor authentic African delicacies while spotlighting artisans and giving opportunities on-site. Think of it as not just an evening out but a night of meaningful connections and support for women’s empowerment!
“Our collaboration with Ibu has been an exciting and empowering journey,” Lempaira shares. “We’re not just creating beautiful beadwork; we’re putting economic power in the hands of women, preserving the significance of generational crafts, and weaving connections that transcend borders.”
Get Ready for an Amazing Experience!
For those interested in attending, tickets for the mini-summit and gala tables will be available starting on _December 3_. Make sure to grab yours and join over 300 enthusiastic allies of the Ibu Movement to celebrate women artisans’ strength, creativity, and determination!
Mark Your Calendars
When it all comes together, The Waka Waka promises to be a magical evening filled with fashion, striking designs, and conversations that will inspire you long after the event ends. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary occasion that intertwines empowerment and celebration.
