If necessity is the mother of innovation then Anifa Mvuemba is the mother of virtual fashion shows with a purpose! The 29-year-old designer took the Internet by storm with the debut of her new line, the Pink Label Congo collection. 

The Baltimore based designer is from the Democratic Republic of Congo and has set her intention on highlighting the beauty of the Congo while shining a light on the issues caused by illegal mining.

A statement on the Hanifa website reads: 

“Riddled with a painful history, the beauty of Congo is often untapped and overlooked. The gentleness, beauty, history, poise, majesty, strength, power, and hope of the Congolese spirit inspired this collection. When creating each piece, I was reminded of the stories my mother told me of the women she knew back home in Congo. Women who suffered a great loss but still, mustered every ounce of strength every day to show up. My hope is that this collection inspires all women to stand tall in their power and like the Democratic Republic of Congo, to use their history, whether pretty or painful — to redesign their future. My country, the land of Congo, is ripe with an abundance of natural resources — the greatest of which are its people — its women”

While the coronavirus pandemic has made large gatherings impossible, creators like Mvuemba used the new restrictions to elevate the industry of fashion through technology and the thoughtful representation of full-figured women. Not only has she successfully captured the attention of millions with her innovative showcase, but she has also accomplished her goal of raising awareness around the beauty and the challenges present in the Congo. To view the full collection and to learn more, visit hanifa.co. 

SOURCE: BECAUSEOFTHEMWECAN