Naked Copenhagen Sheds Light On Access To Education
Image: Naked CPH
For many young women, the opportunity to pursue an education is not always presented. War, poverty, and gender discrimination are just some of the barriers that threaten young girls from reaching their full potential. With the arrival of the school-inspired Nike ‘Varsity Purple’ Dunk High, Naked Copenhagen asked a group of women to share their own experiences surrounding education through their University of Naked CPH campaign and encourage others in supporting those who face the most significant barriers to education.
Education has affected us all in one way or another. However, according to UNESCO estimates, around the world, 132 million girls are out of school, including 34.3 million of primary school age, 30 million of lower-secondary school age, and 67.4 million of upper-secondary school age. This is where organizations such as The Malala Fund come into action. The Malala Fund is a non-profit organization, "working for a world where every girl can learn and lead." By investing in education activists and advocates who drive solutions to girls' educational barriers, the fund is transforming communities, countries, and the world. Naked CPH decided to tap Sally Javadi, Nathalie Wiltoft, and Salwa Ali were all asked what education has meant to them and how it has shaped who they are.
Sally Javadi is psychology graduate and a major sneakHERhead who is better known as @sallyssneakers on IG. Sally interned at a research clinic at her university treating children with school absenteeism and mental health disorders. While pursuing her master's, she conducted a field study on children with other than Danish ethnic backgrounds' perception of being bicultural. Being the child of refugees it had been a field she yearned to work in. However, she craved something a bit more creative. Her social media success has allowed her to pursue just that and although she is not currently working within the field of psychology, reaching her academic goals has allowed her to believe in herself and grow.
“I'm not saying my education defines me, but it has shaped my personality, drive, and motivation. I'm a very determined and goal-oriented woman, and I blame that on my educational discipline as well.”
- Sally Javadi, Psychology Major
Nathalie Wiltoft is a multimedia design student that learned the importance of education at an early age. During her upbringing, she remembers he mother studying for her Master of Law Degree which taught her the importance and value of education from an early age. She also points out her access to free education in Denmark and how that allowed her to study her passion rather than be restricted by what her family could afford. For Nathalie, “access allows people to break out of social heritage, which is beautiful and very important for addressing societal inequalities.”
“To me, education has meant the ability to be independent. Historically, women haven't had the same opportunities as men. And in many parts of the world, they still don't. I feel very fortunate to have pursued my creative dreams.”
- Nathalie Wiltoft, Multimedia Design Student
Garment technologist graduate and fashion design student Salwa Ali has aimed for a career in the fashion industry, accomplishing her goals one at a time, all while raising her nine-year-old son as a single mother. For her, education has not only boosted her confidence but has prepared her to enter the competitive job market to become a fashion designer. Education has aided in her development both personally and professionally. A recent internship at a knitwear textile company has provided Salwa with knowledge of Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop that is indispensable.
"Education has meant the freedom to immerse myself in a subject I find interesting and exciting. I have learned so much about myself, and developed my skills, becoming more confident personally and professionally.
- Salwa Ali, Garment Technologist Graduate and Fashion Design Student
For these 3 women, education has enabled them to believe in themselves and given them the ability to succeed. However, it is important to note that this is not an option for many young girls. To help achieve these goals, Naked CPH has pledged to donate $5000 USD. To read more from these 3 women and learn more about The Malala Fund check out the full campaign here.