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Media & Arts African
Cultural Heritage Initiative
A celebration of traditional African beauty
In June 2024, we launched #DecolonizingBeautyZikora
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What is it? A unique campaign designed to educate the public and celebrate the rich tapestry of indigenous and local beauty customs across Africa
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Why? In a world increasingly dominated by Western beauty standards promoted through pop culture and the global beauty industry, #DecolonizingBeautyZikora seeks to challenge narrow perceptions and showcase the multifaceted historic beauty traditions in Africa's diverse cultures.
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How? The campaign will utilize a multi-platform approach to reach a broad audience of English and French speakers around the world.
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When? Throughout the remainder of the year 2024 and into 2025, a series of initiatives from the campaign will be announced.
#DecolonizingBeautyZikora
Initiatives
Crown of Coils: An Ode to African Hair
In July, we kicked off a vibrant social media challenge designed to encourage content creators to appreciate African hairstyles and inspire their audiences. See the winners on our social media platforms.
Roots on Reels: Showcasing African Beauty Through Film
We our currently accepting entries for "Roots on Reels," a smartphone short film contest for African filmmakers to make a film that captures their interpretation of the theme, Decolonizing Beauty. Learn more and submit an entry here.
Motherland Beauty: A Poetic Exploration of Traditional African Beauty
A poetry contest for African poets to express the essence of African beauty through the power of words
African Beauty in Focus: A Photojournalism Project
To be announced in April 2025
A call for African photojournalists to capture the essence of traditional African beauty practices through their lens
Hairitage in Motion: A Live Celebration of African Hairstyles
To be announced in December
A call for African photojournalists to capture the essence of traditional African beauty practices through their lens
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