Vlisco launches 170th anniversary celebrations

Textile giant, Vlisco, has launched celebrations to mark its 170th anniversary by honouring African women, who have played various roles in women empowerment. 

Eight women from seven different countries in Central and West Africa including the world famous, Grammy winning African singer Angelique Kidjo were selected to represent the face of the campaign in their countries.

With their inspiring stories, Vlisco is celebrating the pride, perseverance and strength of African women who share their passion for Vlisco and their commitment to society.

In Ghana TV icon Anita Erskine was unveiled as the face of the 170th campaign at the Vlisco boutique at the Accra Mall in a ceremony on Monday.

Ms Anita Erskine was chosen because of her activism in women's rights. She represents Vlisco as an example of an inspiring and compassionate woman.

Ms Erskine who described the honour as humbling said "Anyone that knows me knows how much I love the Vlisco brand. Wearing Vlisco allows me to stand out with pride, enabling me to celebrate my love for Africa. Vlisco has always held a special place in my heart and I could not be more honoured to be chosen as the face of their anniversary campaign."

In line with the campaign theme “Female Empowerment‟, Vlisco donated Ghc8,750 to support to support one Najat Hussein’s education. 

Speaking at the launch of the celebration, Mr. Erik Van Per Staaij, Managing Director of Vlisco Group, Ghana said African women have played an indispensable role to the success of the brand. 

"Vlisco has a strong connection with Africa, especially African women. Because of this, we would like to mark the celebrations by honouring African women, as they have played indispensable roles in the success of the brand." 

He also reiterated Vlisco’s commitment to empowering African women economically, socially and culturally.

“Vlisco will continue to empower African women in ways that bring meaning to life. We will help to empower African women economically, socially, & culturally.”

He also paid tribute to Vlisco’s various partners who have consistently injected life and energy into the brand.

Mr. Stephen Badu, Marketing Director of Vlisco Group, Ghana said , the  anniversary was “the perfect opportunity for all our women to showcase that confidence that comes with being a Vlisco woman.”

 “At Vlisco, it is our deepest desire to empower all women to stand out and above the crowd, and to embody confidence every time they wear our fabric.” He added 

Subsequently he said, Vlisco has undertaken a social media campaign that will sustain the buzz around the anniversary celebrations and urged consumers to take “selfies” in their bright and beautiful Vlisco fabrics under the hashtag #Vliscoatl70GH for an opportunity to win a surprise.

Hosted by TV presenter Kokui Selormey , the event was attended by several key personalities in the entertainment and fashion industry including Becca, Joselyn Dumas, Marie Humbert and also featured a performance by Afro Jazz singer Adomaa. 

There was also an Avant-Garde themed fashion show which featured exciting and extravagant designs by Samson Creations, VH Mode by Vanessa Harrison, Royal Dennis, Sarah Richards and Stylista, with make-up and jewelry provided by Maybelline New York and Armanda‟s Jewelry respectively. 

The launch event marks the beginning of a three month campaign that will commemorate 170 years of Vlisco being an authentic part of African culture. As part of the anniversary campaign, Vlisco will be running a series of special promotional events, competitions and exhibitions for the rest of the year.