BY MALAWIHEAT REPORTER
Gifted and fast-rising fashion designer Ruth Chirwa has announced that she will this year host a fashion show in the city of Mzuzu which, mainly, wants to unearth talent of youths in the city especially those with physical challenges.
Chirwa, 24, who is herself physically challenged, told MalawiHeat that she feels that her strides in the trade should be able to inspire others that disability is not inability.
"I don't think the world looks at me as someone with disabilities anymore. I know what I am but I don't want what I am to drag me down.
"I think I am actually doing better than most able-bodied youths my age," said Ruth who always puts on an infectious smile that is not only charming, but also quite inspiring.
She has participated in several shows where she showcases her work from her Upie Collection Studio, including All Shades Fashion Show.
After her designs were showcased at Portugal Fashion Week SS23, she won an award at the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival—Malawi Awards in 2022. The Focus on Ability Society (FOAS) organized the event, which took place on November 5, 2022, at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Science (MUBAS).
According to Ruth, the fashion show, dubbed Breaking Barriers, will take place on August 2, 2024 at Springs Park in Mzuzu.
"This is a one in a lifetime event for youths, especially those that still believe that disability is disabled," the graduate of Miracle Technical Institute said.
