The latest edition of Guinness Bright House, known for its vibrant and immersive creative showcases was not just another event—it was a powerful statement about diversity, creativity, and collaboration, with a special focus on vitiligo awareness.
The Bright House has always been a sanctuary for creatives, but this edition that happened on Saturday June 28 stood out for its dedication to highlighting vitiligo, a skin condition that many are not well-versed with, especially in Uganda. This commitment was embodied in the collaboration between Guinness and Denim Cartel aka Troy Elimu.
Denim Cartel unveiled a stunning new line inspired by Guinness, featuring a model living with vitiligo. This bold choice was more than a fashion statement; it was a celebration of uniqueness and a call for greater understanding and acceptance of vitiligo.
“Inclusivity, collaboration, and celebrating extraordinary people are at the heart of what we do as a brand and what the Guinness Bright House is all about,” said Roy Tumwizere, Guinness Brand Manager.
“Highlighting vitiligo during Vitiligo Awareness Month is a significant moment for us,” he added.
Vitiligo is a condition that causes loss of skin colour in blotches. It occurs when pigment producing cells die or stop functioning.
Awareness is key because in Uganda, the condition is associated with several myths. For example, there is a belief among the Baganda that some with Vitiligo was “burnt by twins.” Such awareness goes a long way in dispelling these myths.
A model on the runway with vitiligo was an empowering gesture for people with similar a condition to have confidence in their skin and for society acceptance.
The event was a sensory feast featuring zones dedicated to fashion, art, and music. The fashion zone showcased creations from Fix by Oringa, headwraps by Obonire, and a pop-up exhibition by Denim Cartel. The art space, led by digital artist Kashushu, allowed attendees to contribute to a live digital mural while in the music zone, producer Axon guided aspiring musicians through music production whereas artists like Denesi, Akeine, and Kohen Jayce, Azawi set the stage ablaze with electrifying performances. DJ Sesse closed the night with an incredible set, leaving a lasting impression.
The Guinness Bright House continues to be a beacon for creative minds, fostering a culture of inclusivity and celebrating the extraordinary. This edition, with its focus on vitiligo awareness, set a new standard for future events, proving that creativity can be a powerful force for social change.
