GIVE HER A CROWN
By Marcus G Blassingame
In a bold initiative aimed at transforming the narrative surrounding women in South Africa and beyond, the #GiveHerACrown platform has emerged as a powerful force for female empowerment. Officially launched in August 2020, this initiative utilizes the profound influence of storytelling and the arts to spotlight the diverse experiences of women: survivors, activists, trailblazers, and the next generation. During its inaugural year, 16 local artists crafted unique crowns of artistic expression, utilizing their chosen mediums to convey their messages.
The funds generated during the 16 Days of Activism facilitated the development of an educational digital kit designed to empower educators in promoting gender equality within academic institutions. This resource is accessible for educators seeking to incorporate these vital themes into their curricula. Each year, the initiative introduces a new concept and a fresh cohort of artists, further enriching its narrative and amplifying its impact.
In 2024, #GiveHerACrown instigated a significant paradigm shift, urging a reevaluation of preconceived notions and challenging societal norms regarding the roles of women. The platform recognizes art’s unparalleled ability to shift perspectives, nudging audiences into new realms of thought while serving as a catalyst for redefining boundaries, dismantling stereotypes, and inspiring change. By reshaping the narrative around women’s roles, the initiative seeks to ensure that all women are celebrated and empowered, igniting a shift in society’s collective conscience.
This year marked a historic milestone as five distinguished designers, along with two remarkable African designers, made their debut at New York Fashion Week in September 2024. This groundbreaking showcase highlighted the brilliance of the Queens of the Catwalk and culminated in a glamorous homecoming event at the Jaguar Experience Centre in October. Gugu Peteni, one of the featured designers, expressed her sentiments: “Returning home after New York felt like a grand celebration of our journey as African women in fashion. #GiveHerACrown has empowered me to discover my voice as a designer.”
The production of this stunning event was expertly orchestrated by a talented team. Photography by J. Monroe for Monroe Media (@jmnroe for @monroe.media) captured the event’s essence, while Creative Director and Producer Chad Groom for THESTYLEMONSTERS (@the_real_re_edit for @thestylemonsters) skillfully directed the entire experience. Production was managed by Ken Sivells for FlowrPot Productions (@kensivells).
The beauty team played a crucial role in enhancing the visual narrative, featuring makeup artists Rita Helman (@helmanrita), Vivian Carranza (@vivian_mua), and Jocelyn Miranda (@makeupbyjocym). Hair was styled by Teofany Bueno (@teofany.manus), with Beauty Creative Director and Makeup Key Odilis Trinidad (@odilis.trinidad) overseeing the creative direction. Models Alyse Tyana (@alysetyana) and Tabia Wood (@tabiebabie) brought the designs to life on the runway.
TEAM:
– Photography by J. Monroe for Monroe Media @jmnroe for @monroe.media
– Creative Director/ Producer Chad Groom for THESTYLEMONSTERS @the_real_re_edit for @thestylemonsters
– Production by Ken Sivells for FlowrPot Productions @kensivells
Beauty Team Credits:
Rita Helman @helmanrita
Vivian Carranza @vivian_mua
Jocelyn Miranda @makeupbyjocym
Hair :
Teofany Bueno @teofany.manus
Beauty Creative Director and Makeup Key
Odilis Trinidad @odilis.Trinidad
model
– Alyse Tyana @alysetyana
– Tabia Wood @tabiebabie
ies
The Change Collective Africa, a consortium of social entrepreneurs, is committed to forging connections among Purpose Pioneers across the African continent to drive genuine societal transformation where it is most needed. They believe that a singular innovative idea has the potential to change the world and excel in crafting solutions for societal change.
In collaboration with a network of changemakers—from corporate entities to grassroots communities, influencers, and individuals—#GiveHerACrown breathes life into these solutions while crafting compelling narratives that illustrate their impact. The initiative champions the belief that doing good is fundamentally good business, paving the way for a new paradigm of shared prosperity where purpose and profit are equally valued.
IN BLACK MAGAZINE 