Renowned Darfuri fashion designer, Dr. Salwa Mukhtar Saleh, speaks to Voices of Darfur about her design sensibility, her views on the challenges faced by women and youth in Darfur as well as the role played by local intellectuals in the ongoing peace process.

By Ala Mayyahi

An academic for 19 years, Dr. Salwa Mukhtar Saleh is a well-known figure in her hometown, El Fasher, North Darfur. Holding a doctoral degree in educational technologies, Dr. Saleh has been lecturing at the El Fasher University since 1995.

Voices of Darfur: Tell us more about how you started designing thobes as well as accessories such as handbags and shoes for women. How do you get these items manufactured?
 

Dr. Saleh: For me, designing, whether accessories or clothes, started as a hobby more than 20 years ago. When it comes to shoes and handbags, I first draw the item incorporating all design details and colours. Once this is done, I determine the appropriate material to be used, such as leather, suede or satin. Following this, I implement the initial drawing of the design onto the chosen fabric or material and take it to a shoemaker who does the assembling and pasting under my supervision and guidance. Read the full article in the October issue of Voices of Darfur.

Download the magazine (PDF) here.