Look How Strong We Are, Assault Survivors Show on Catwalk in Congo

15 sexual violence survivors from Congo showcased their solidarity in a special way this year: they modeled at a show in the capital city of Kinshaa, representing their strength and yearning to end violence against women.

“When I was designing for them, I didn’t see victims. I just see incredibly strong women who have really begun to live after what they have been through and that is what is so powerful and what the fabrics and clothes try to represent,” says Tolu Coker, a British-Nigerian designer whose clothes are worn by Rihanna.

A 2018 Thomson Reuters Foundation poll ranked Congo amongst the 10 most dangerous countries to be a woman. So City of Joy – a charity that helps survivors overcome pain and help women overcome their trauma – brought together the models, during the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to represent solidarity in one of the many events scheduled worldwide to raise awareness to rape in war, domestic violence and female abuse.

“I want the collection to spread, wide and far, the message of strength of Congolese women, in particular, and world’s women in general,” adds Jane, 34, raped multiple times by militias. “I want it to be a tool which will raise consciousness about gender equity and about women as strong, beautiful and amazing.”