Kelly Foli, co-founder and creative designer of Ghana’s streetwear fashion brand, Free The Youth, has spoken out about the challenges that young people face when trying to pursue careers in fashion or the arts in Ghana.
In an interview on Y 107.9 FM’s Myd Morning Radio Show with host Rev Erskine, Foli highlighted the fact that fashion and the arts are not always seen as “beneficial” career choices in Ghana.
He noted that have established a perceived stigma against people in fashion. He indicated that many parents and leaders in the country prioritize more “prestigious” professions such as medicine, law, and politics, leaving little room for young people who want to explore alternative career paths.
Foli went on to explain how this lack of understanding from his family and friends inspired the name of their brand, “Free The Youth”. “The brand is all about empowering young people to be themselves and pursue their passions, even if it means branching out from traditional career paths.”
“When we started taking pictures like posting all that like Joey said our friends didn’t understand what we trying to do. It was more like we weren’t a serious bunch. But we had a vision and we didn’t lose focus and by God’s grace we’re on the right path,” Foli said.
Free The Youth has gained a following in Ghana and beyond for its unique streetwear fashion designs and its focus on empowering young people. The brand’s mission is to inspire and empower youth to be themselves, express themselves, and make a positive impact in their communities.
Through their fashion designs and advocacy for youth empowerment, Free The Youth hopes to break down barriers and encourage young people to pursue their passions, regardless of what others may think.
The brand earlier announced its 2023 USA tour set to commence today, April 28 at Virginia Beach and end on June 11 in Los Angeles. The tour will include stops in major cities across the United States such as New York, Chicago, and Atlanta.
By: Jude Tackie
