Breaking Down Barriers in Italian Fashion: The Afrofashion Association's Journey
In a country where fashion is often synonymous with European elegance, one association is working tirelessly to bring diversity and inclusivity to the forefront. Meet Michelle Francine Ngonmo, the 38-year-old Cameroonian-Italian founder of the Afrofashion Association, who has dedicated her life to helping Africans and people of color make their mark in Italian fashion.A Decade of Breaking Down Barriers
Founded a decade ago by Ngonmo, the Afrofashion Association has been instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion in Italian fashion. With a focus on mentoring, tutoring, and education, the association has worked with over 3,000 people of color, with an impressive 92 now on a sustainable professional path. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Ngonmo's unwavering dedication to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.
A Movement Born from Passion and Purpose
Ngonmo's journey began when she noticed the lack of diversity in creative industries like fashion. She realized that there was a need for representation, not just as a token gesture but as a genuine effort to create change. This realization sparked her passion project, which has since grown into a full-fledged movement. With the support of institutions like the Italian National Fashion Chamber and top fashion editors, Ngonmo's vision is slowly becoming a reality.
A Ghanaian Designer's Rise to Fame
One of the association's success stories is Victor-Hart, a young Ghanaian designer who made his Milan runway debut earlier this month. With the help of Ngonmo and her team, Abbey-Hart has been able to showcase his talent on the world stage. His love affair with fashion began when he saw his first Gucci bag back in Ghana, and he knew that he wanted to create something beautiful for the world to see.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite facing numerous challenges, including racism and skepticism from some quarters, Ngonmo remains undeterred. She believes that her work is not just about promoting diversity but also about creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. Abbey-Hart's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. As he so eloquently put it, 'Take away the color, take away what I represent, just look at the job.'
The Afrofashion Association's journey is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, purpose, and dedication come together. With Ngonmo at the helm, this movement is slowly but surely breaking down barriers in Italian fashion. As we celebrate their successes, let us not forget that there is still much work to be done. The Afrofashion Association's story serves as a reminder that diversity and inclusivity are not just buzzwords but a necessary step towards creating a more equitable world.
