From The Lens To The Heart: A Collaboration Born Of Empowerment

In the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, a remarkable story unfolded, a testament to the transformative power of connection and the celebration of individuality. Anwuli and Ogo, two women brought together by Canon’s ‘Women Who Empower Programme’ in collaboration with WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers), have woven a tapestry of collaboration that transcends the ordinary. Their journey, a beacon of empowerment and diversity, has ignited a spark of change and inspired a new appreciation for the beauty of human difference.

Anwuli, a visionary entrepreneur, founded QAMIN (Quality Accessories Made In Nigeria) Nigeria, a premium lifestyle brand renowned for its thoughtfully designed and well-made leather and fabric fashion accessories. Ogo, a passionate advocate for appearance positivity, established SKAPH (The Skin and Appearance Positive Hub), a creative social enterprise dedicated to transforming the narrative around skin conditions and visible differences in Sub-Saharan Africa, starting with Nigeria.

Their paths first crossed amidst the vibrant energy of the ‘Women Who Empower Programme’; a transformative initiative designed to empower women in the creative industries. The programme provided a safe space for Anwuli and Ogo to connect, share their experiences, learn photography, and content creation skills from industry experts, and discover a shared passion for celebrating diversity and challenging societal norms.

Inspired by their shared values, Anwuli and Ogo embarked on a collaborative project that would challenge conventional beauty standards and redefine what it means to be beautiful. QAMIN served as a platform to showcase the unique beauty of individuals with visible skin differences. With Ogo's guidance, SKAPH members were invited to model for QAMIN, a bold step towards embracing diversity and challenging stereotypes.

The photoshoot, held in a vibrant studio in Yaba using the Canon EOS 6D, was more than just a fashion endeavor. It was a celebration of individuality, a testament to the power of self-acceptance. Anwuli, armed with the knowledge gained from the Women Who Empower Programme, confidently captured the essence of each model, using her skills in framing and lighting to highlight their unique beauty.

Beyond the lens, this collaboration ignited a spark of change. Anwuli and Ogo's shared commitment to empowerment and diversity resonated with their audiences. Their collaborative Instagram posts garnered increased engagement, with comments praising the models' beauty and elegance. The partnership showcased a powerful message: beauty comes in all forms, and embracing our differences is a strength, not a weakness.

By featuring models with vitiligo and albinism, Anwuli and Ogo have made a significant impact on their lives. They have contributed to a shift in perception, challenging the narrow beauty standards that often marginalize individuals with visible skin differences. Their collaboration is a beacon of hope, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate diversity.

Somesh Adukia, Managing Director, Canon Central & North Africa mentioned, "We are incredibly proud of Anwuli and Ogo for their inspiring collaboration. The Women Who Empower Programme was designed to foster creativity, empower women, and challenge societal norms. Their work is a testament to the transformative power of the programme and the importance of celebrating diversity. We are committed to supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity and empower individuals to pursue their passions."

The ‘Women Who Empower Programme’ has not only equipped Anwuli and Ogo with valuable skills but has also fostered a deep sense of confidence and empowerment. Canon's commitment to fostering creativity, empowerment, and inclusivity aligns with its philosophy of Kyosei, meaning "living and working together for the common good." Through initiatives like the Women Who Empower Programme, Canon demonstrates its dedication to empowering individuals, celebrating diversity, and inspiring positive change.