Date of the event: May 27, 2023

Participants: Over 100 attendees purchased tickets to the event, showing strong community support and engagement.

Media presence: The event garnered significant media attention, with coverage including:

• 4 articles in various media outlets
• TikTok videos created by organizers and participants
• 64 mentions on Instagram

1 video featured in Sierra Leone TV news, highlighting the international reach and impact of the event.

Team: The success of the event was made possible by the dedication and collaboration of:

• 10 African students who served as models, showcasing the diverse fashion and styles of the continent.
• 22 volunteer models who contributed their time and talent to make the fashion show a success.
• 8 volunteers who provided essential support and assistance during the event.
• 4 paid team members who played key roles in event planning and execution.
• 9 partners, including fashion designers, Moldovan companies, the National Museum, and the beneficiary NGO, whose support was integral to the event's success.

ACHIEVEMENTS

1. Successful fundraising: The event raised 30,000 MDL through ticket sales, donations, and the sale of African accessories. These funds were dedicated to supporting the Hospices of Hope Moldova, an international charity providing medical care and palliative support to patients in advanced stages of illness.
2. Cultural exchange: Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in African culture, art, and fashion, promoting cultural diversity and fostering appreciation for Africa's rich heritage.
3. Designer exposure: Talented designers from Sierra Leone and other African nations showcased their creations, gaining exposure to a European audience and opening up new opportunities in the fashion market.
4. Strong community engagement: The enthusiastic participation of over 100 attendees demonstrated strong community engagement and support for charitable initiatives, highlighting the event's impact beyond entertainment.
5. Donation to the Museum of History of Moldova: After the event, the founder of the African Fashion Show for Charity, Yerie Mary Kamara Paglione, made a significant contribution to the cultural exchange by donating a traditional outfit from Sierra Leone to the Museum of History of Moldova. This generous donation not only symbolizes the spirit of cross-cultural collaboration fostered by the event but also serves as a tangible representation of the cultural richness and diversity celebrated during the African Fashion Show for Charity. The traditional outfit is now a part of the museum's collection, further enhancing the appreciation and understanding of African heritage within the Moldovan community.

The organizing committee is committed to expanding the event's impact and continuing efforts to make a positive difference in the community and fashion industry.

Overall: The first edition of the African Fashion Show for Charity was a remarkable success, achieving its goals of promoting cultural diversity, supporting a charitable cause, and providing a platform for African designers. It laid a solid foundation for future editions and reinforced our commitment to creating positive change through fashion and philanthropy.

For more information and highlights from the first edition, visit the following links:

• Link 1: TikTok Video
• Link 2: National Museum Article
• Link 3: Locals.md Article
• Link 4: Hospices of Hope Article