A special fashion show took place on May 7, 2022 at the Alpha Fitness Gym on Ngong Road, Nairobi Kenya. Woman Kenya Network recently caught up with Ingred Awuor, CEO and Founder of Blackdust Events which sponsored Own the Runway Charity Gala 2022.
Ingred Awuor is an ex-model and currently a model coach and a fashion show producer. Own The Runway is a non-profit organization that focuses on events for community impact. This year, the charity fashion show supported young mothers who live in informal settlements in Kenya. Some of the designers who showcased include Epica Jewellery, Bam’I Collections, Sewphisticated by Viane, Miss CEO and Roma Designs Africa.
Previously, the charity fashion show supported and advocated for recognition of albino models in the fashion industry. They also supported the albino community with resources essential for their well-being and survival.
Truth be told, you put up quite a show. Briefly talk about how you planned the event.
It took five months of planning. Planning involves scouting for models and designers, looking for a postpartum foundation to support, and visiting mums who are grappling with postpartum depression, to build a relationship and offer therapy.
We also trained models on the catwalk, ensuring designers understood the concept of the show. Planning also involved talking to artistes for entertainment and collaborating with event organisers and looking for a venue, doing dress rehearsals, and involving the Mcees.
Why was the focus on postpartum depression?
INGRED AWUOR, CEO AND FOUNDER BLACKDUST EVENTS.
Postpartum mums in the urban slums have low or zero income which means that besides financial insecurity they struggle with postpartum depression.
Depression is worse when one has no financial support and a support system, therefore, Mums with newborns need support in every aspect. I am a mother too so I understand these struggles.
Some highlights from the charity Gala 2022?
First and foremost, I am proud of the fact that we gave upcoming designers a platform to showcase their designs and be visible. I am also proud of allowing upcoming models to grace the show and showcase their talent. I am glad that the audience enjoyed every bit of the show, and for many, it was their first time at a fashion show.
You worked very closely with not one but several notable sponsors including Linton’s Beauty College, Verushka wigs, Alpha Fit gym; the list is endless. Do you have any message for them?
I would like to thank all the sponsors for believing in me and supporting this noble cause. I am definitely looking forward to future collaborations.
After the show did you go to bed knowing that you achieved what you had planned?
Yes, it did but I hope the next edition will be bigger and better.
So what’s next in line?
Since Own The Runway is an annual event, I can’t wait to host it again Next year in April. It’s going to be one of a kind. Stay tuned.
