Charleston Prepares for Inspiring Ibu Movement Fundraiser Celebrating Women Artisans from Africa

Charleston, S.C. Gears Up for Empowering Fundraiser with the Ibu Movement!

Mark your calendars, folks! The beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina is getting ready for a heartwarming and inspiring event that celebrates the power of women artisans from across Sub-Saharan Africa. On March 7, the Ibu Movement is hosting its annual fundraiser, themed “The Waka Waka,” which is all about women’s empowerment, cultural heritage, and fabulous craftsmanship. Whether you love fashion or are passionate about making a difference, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Empowering Women

The Ibu Movement aims to bring together over 300 amazing allies for a day packed with transformative discussions, shopping, and, of course, spectacular fashion. Lasley Steever, the chief marketing officer of the Ibu Movement, shared her excitement about the event: “We want to expose people here to the richness of all the different countries of Sub-Saharan Africa where we are involved. We are the Ibu Movement, and we are a movement because we engage so many people.”

The day will kick off bright and early at the Charleston Library Society, which will host a mini-summit dedicated to exploring culture, heritage, artisan design, impact, and women leaders across Africa. Expect engaging conversations and insightful discussions that will surely awaken your curiosity about the incredible work being done by these talented artisans.

Changing Lives Through Craftsmanship

What’s really touching about this event is how the Ibu Movement is making a difference in women’s lives across Africa. The organization has partnered with over 50 countries and works diligently to uplift women artisans. Steever emphasized the power of storytelling in this endeavor: “It is very powerful to hear women say how they have been able to change their perspective and confidence. It gives other people insight.”

Among the exceptional women attending is Beatrice Lempaira, the gender director at BeadWORKS Kenya. Lempaira works closely with more than 1,300 women in Kenya, helping them turn traditional skills into vital income. Steever recounted a wonderful story of transformation: “One woman gained confidence and left a hostile relationship through BeadWORKS. A few years into her work with the organization, she is helping other women in similar situations.” Talk about a ripple effect!

Exciting Speakers and Stories

Expect to be inspired by a lineup of remarkable speakers! Alongside Lempaira, there will be voices like Ozzy Etomi and Rukky Ladoja from Nigeria’s Dye Lab, who will delve into preserving heritage craft and ensuring that women artisans earn a living wage. Then we have the fabulous photographers Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher, who have captured vibrant ceremonial life in Africa throughout their careers. Also speaking is Hafsat Abiola, who will share her powerful story of overcoming personal tragedies and her role as president of the Women in Africa Initiative.

“The women that we work with, their tenacity and ability to keep pushing forward inspires us to keep going,” Steever added, highlighting a key theme of the evening: empowerment and resilience. “Women are changing their own lives. It’s really the power within them.”

Join the Movement!

Excited yet? Tickets for the fundraiser went on sale this past December, and they’re going fast! The gala will be held at the elegant Festival Hall in the heart of Charleston, with doors opening at 6 p.m. The gala is co-hosted by local influencers Carolyn Murray, Judi Embrescia, and Amanda Flynn, making it a town-wide celebration for a cause that’s close to the heart!

Steever wrapped up with a powerful reminder: “The individuals who are engaged with us, whether you’re buying a beaded necklace, donating, or bringing a friend to this event, all of that is important to continue to raise awareness and grow our movement of people who are wanting to see positive change and recognizing the importance of community – not just local community, but global.”

So, don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to support women artisans and embrace the rich culture of Africa while having an incredible time in Charleston!