Tag: Travel

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Vogue, Keira Knightley donate food & Louis Vuitton to African elephant’s rehab

Keira Knightley gives baby elephant Louis Vuitton fro VogueThe concept for the June 2007 Vogue magazine cover story is a diary of British actress Keira Knightley’s “vacation in Africa” – more specifically Kenya. While the idea was probably someone’s eureka moment for an interesting feature, the resulting shoot and story is another re-hashing of Out of Africa. The fashion blogosphere has taken issue with one image in particular where the actress is photographed feeding a baby elephant which has been draped with a leather Louis Vuitton blanket.

After lunch at the Giraffe Manor, a hotel near Nairobi where giraffes roam the grounds, Keira donned a chic gray Bottega Veneta frock to visit the baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Mbagathi, the only successful project in the world at rehabilitating orphaned elephants into the wild. Her diary entry for that day reads, “Today everyone tried to catch the baby elephants so we could put Louis Vuitton blankets on their backs. I’ve never seen anything more brilliantly stupid. I hope Louis Vuitton like it; they should definitely give the elephant a modeling contract.” – via Style.com

The fashion spread also includes a photo of the actress “roughing it” with some Maasai herdsmen- how original -, and some other shots of Ms. Knightley living out her rugged Africa dreams (circa 1910). I know Vogue is not the most progressive magazine, however you’d think that with all the resources they have the editors can find a creative way to tie in the Africa theme. They could have at least hired a photographer like Andrew Dosunmu, Marc Baptiste, or Stanley Lumax to lend their unique talent to the idea. But it just goes to prove how the perspective of Africa in popular culture is so limited. We can say that the editors at Vogue are at fault but, the true failure of the whole feature is with the Africans involved in the shoot who perhaps felt they had no choice but to offer their resources up to strengthen an image of Africa which ultimately would limit their ability to grow out of the early 1900’s image of the continent. This is why I place so much weight on the shoulders of those of us who live and work abroad to act as ambassadors and communicate our experiences constantly. One might say that the Vogue spread is just poor execution, however, the underlying theme is the real problem. The campaign to re-brand Africa has to take place both on the continent and abroad in order for it to be a success. It’s a tough job but the alternative is worse.

more images via imnotobsessed
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Age, authority and why Africans wear suits

Respect is deeply rooted in African cultures. We’re taught to refer to anyone who is older than us as “auntie” or ‘uncle”, regardless of whether they are even related to you. In the past it was understood that your “uncle” or “auntie” had years of experience and knowledge over you; that translated into respect and authority. When an elder spoke you didn’t argue or question him/her. You, as the younger person, were regulated to taking the elder person on their word. But somewhere along the line that authority model has become one of Africa’s biggest problems. More and more, as we are inundated with information at a younger age, we begin to question authority. Soon a “Because I said so” is not enough in the household. We begin to ask that people prove themselves before we respect them and grant authority. In societies which are individual-centered technology’s effect on the relationship between the older and younger generations is not as drastic; but in African societies where respect for your elders, to this day, is ingrained in all facets of our lives, the barrage of information has created a serious rift between the generations. There is a large communication gap between the older Africans who are used to age and respect-based authority and the younger Africans who are beginning to ask a lot of questions about our current society. In various African communities it’s a standoff of sorts between the older generation who still remember pre-independence Africa and are insistent on the idea of a 3-piece suit and the authority they should get because of it, and a younger generation who believes that the suit doesn’t make the man, the man makes the suit. Unfortunately our understanding on respect and authority is caught between multiple worlds. And that is reflected in the bureaucracy that stunts many African nations’ growth. How do we maintain our values and traditions of respect and authority and use our knowledge to rid ourselves of the practices that are preventing us from moving forward?

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Dior puts a little soul in it’s Marrakech Express

Alek Wek on Dior Cruise 2008 NYC runway Alek Wek's shoes on Dior Cruise 2008 NYC runway

On Monday evening, designer John Galliano showed his Christian Dior Cruise 2008 collection in New York City. Going into the event I expected the normal couture runway spectacle, including the absence of anything or anyone African (or black). I was delighted to see though that Galliano did his part to at least acknowledge the diversity of the times by including Alek Wek and “it girl” Chanel Iman. While the collection and scenery channeled the 60’s-era, the Parisian fashion house designs and choice of music impressed me with it’s updated view of what luxury lifestyle is today. While the inclusion of only two ethnic models in a show themed “Marrakech Express” is not the best case scenario (hellooo! Moroccans have a unique African culture), I am happy to see that the trends I observed in last season’s shows is not catching on throughout the industry. Hopefully more African models can soon get a chance to lend their authenticity to couture runway shows. Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kabede was also in attendance.

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Inspiring the journey

FastCompany.com: Sibusiso Vilane climbs MT Everest
The main reason I began this blog was to provide inspiration for those people who see the success of Africa as a success for us all. I for one find inspiration in hearing about Africans who are making an impact in the world we live in. Here are two people who are doing what others seem to think is impossible:

Thanks to Benin and John for the inspiration. A good way to start the week.

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Changing “Brand Africa”, an International Trade Forum magazine feature

International Trade Forum magazine: Changing The recent issue of the quarterly magazine International Trade Forum, published by the International Trade Centre (ITC), has some great articles on the cover story Changing “Brand Africa”. The online edition of the print publication, delves into the different areas that the ITC sees are integral in re-branding Africa through trade. Of particular interest is the In Pictures: Changing “Brand Africa” article which touches on various areas where change is occurring on the continent. The areas are A Stronger Role for Women, Services: A World of Potential, Upgrading Traditional Products, and Foundations for Prosperity. Articles titled Made in Africa, Investment in Africa: The Challenges Ahead, Facts & Figures: Africa’s Trade, and ITC’s Programme for Africa, join the In Pictures: Changing “Brand Africa” article, in what looks to be a promising, growing informational feature. The site says, “The articles below, from ITC, UNCTAD and IMF contributors, are the first in the series of stories on Changing “Brand Africa” that will be featured on this site.”

In tourist offices, the most frequent images of Africa are those of safari animals. In the news, the tragedy of several conflicts lingers. On film screens, African conflict diamonds take centre stage in a Hollywood movie.
This image of Africa does not reflect its economic diversity, entrepreneurial aspirations or the optimism that goes with rising investment, growth and greater stability. “Brand Africa” is in need of a change if Africa is to take its rightful place in world markets.

Check out the site features here, and you can also order the print publication. The International Trade Forum magazine focuses on trade promotion and export development, as part of ITC’s technical cooperation programme with developing countries and economies in transition. The magazine is published quarterly in English, French and Spanish.

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New magazine changing image of African women

Kitu Kizuri MagI’m an avid reader of publications both online and offline, so when I came across this new African women’s magazine called Kitu Kizuri at Barnes and Noble, I was intrigued. Having already been in contact with the editor for a feature on myself and Annansi Clothing Co. in the “American Dreams” section, I kind of had an idea what the magazine was about anyway. But, when I finally found a copy hidden in the women’s interest section, I was impressed. While I’m sure there are other African women’s magazines available, I felt that Kitu Kizuri was on point with it’s focus and content. Being an African man, I might not be in the target market, but the articles gave me a good glimpse of what is on African women’s minds. Just the kind of insight I need for when I’m designing my upcoming women’s collection. Make sure you check out the magazine and SUBSCRIBE!! It’s only $20 per year and I’m sure you’ll agree that we need more magazines like this one to help shape a new African image. Congrats on the launch guys.

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Five tactics for selling Africa-based products to non-Africans

Annansi Clothing- I Love Africa teeI’ve been having discussions about the difficulties of selling African products to non-Africans for years. As I mentioned in my post about African affluence, and Benin expanded upon in his post on advertisers ignoring Africa, there are many hurdles that come with proving the worth of an Africa-focused product of service, especially when it comes to non-Africans. But while many of us can certainly make a good living selling our products to Africans alone, there is also a need to introduce the non-African market to those same products. While I certainly don’t feel all African companies have to pursue non-African customers, there is a strong market for bridge products outside the continent. I’ve compiled 5 tactics that I’ve used in the past in approaching a non-African customer with my products. I use the term non-African consumer/customer, to refer to consumers/customers who would not otherwise engage an African product or service in their everyday life. While some products might not be the most culturally traditional, it is an easier sell to Africans than it is to non-Africans. Keep in mind though, that a product or service cannot be everything to everyone. Look at the Gap’s recent identity crisis and sales slump. If you are thinking about selling to non-African customers here are five tactics that might help.

1. Assume you’re entering hostile territory. Get ammunition.
Just because you are willing to share your African culture and heritage doesn’t mean others are willing to buy into it. They might not even think your product has any relevance to their normal product buying patterns. Instead of arguing why they should embrace a new culture, convince them of how your product fills a need they might already have. Do as much research on the customer’s buying patterns and look for gaps that your product can fill. Research, research, research.

2. Target culture bridge builders first.
A good way of adding non-Africans to your customer pool is to first identify and target cultural bridge builders. Take a look at your customer database ( I assume you have one) and pick out those non-African customers who have already bought your products. Invariably, those non-Africans are people who are already familiar with Africa beyond what they see on the news, and many times they are eager to share their culturally diverse knowledge with others who might not be familiar. With a little research you can find ways of building up that customer base and empowering them to convince other non-Africans why and how to adopt your product.

3. Connect the dots with familiar non-African products.
A large part of the process when it comes to selling African products to non-African consumers is convincing them your product is not so foreign. Many times new customers will resist your product based on unfamiliarity. It’s up to you to guide them into familiar waters, and one way of doing that is to compare your product to a more familiar product. While many of us entrepreneurs like to believe our products or ideas are brand new, in this case, relying on the newness of your product can actually make it a harder sell. When introducing a product that is heavily reliant on cultures that are foreign to your potential target customers, it’s better to play up the similarities rather than the differences to products that are already being used. It takes knowing the pros and cons of your product and forming a relationship with the non-African consumer.

4. Assume nothing, Explain everything.
It seems like a no-brainer, but many entrepreneurs, myself included, get so caught up in our own world that we forget that not everyone is immersed in our product or industry as we are. And when it comes to Africa-related products, we run into a roadblock when we assume others are familiar with any of our cultural references. In my experience, the products that have been able to appeal to more than just Africans, are those that educate the customer then sell to them. If we can all agree that Africa and African cultures are misunderstood, then we should also know that before you get a non-African to buy, you must explain what references are being used. Many times the more you explain, the greater value your product has with the new customer also.

5. Customer service and quality breed sales.
One of the things I learned while working at the Four Seasons and the Hilton back in college, was Americans put a lot of stock in customer service and quality. Those who live in the US know what I’m talking about. The better your customer service, the more likely the customer will buy your product and recommend it to others. Again, your Africa-related product is fighting against strong stereotypes in the customer’s mind, so the more you strive to deliver excellent customer service and impeccable quality, the easier it will be to convince your growing customer base to trust you and your company. We cannot all be perfect, but sometimes a little attention to detail can go a long way.

Do you agree? Do have any tactics to add?

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This week in African Style 4/14 – 4/20/07

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Poll: Does everyone know more about Africa?

Madonna in Malawi againOver 20 years ago, 1985 to be exact, an all-star list of artists – Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, Al Jarreau, The Pointer Sisters, Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, and Lionel Richie among others – got together to “raise funds to help famine relief efforts in Ethiopia”. Named USA for Africa, the group recorded the colossal hit “We Are the World” and performed the song as part of Bob Geldof‘s televised Live Aid concert. That was the beginning of the Africactivism movement. Some would say one of the biggest problems with the movement at that time was it fed into the image of Africans as helpless people in a country (Africa) which was overrun with famine and starvation. It’s been quite a few years now and with all the talk about Product RED (Bono), Darfur (George Clooney), young girls’ education (Oprah Winfrey), adoption (Angelina Jolie, Madonna), blood diamonds (Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou), and water shortage (Jay-Z’s Water for Life), I thought it would be a good time to take a survey on how Africa is viewed compared to 20 years ago. Please take a moment to cast your vote in the poll located in the sidebar to the right.