In the Democratic Republic of Congo,millions of girls face significant barriers to education due to poverty,gender discrimination,and inadequate infrastructure. Education is a transformative right, but many Congolese girls are denied this opportunity, perpetuating cycles of poverty. The Malaika Foundation, a non-profit committed to empowering Congolese communities through education and health, leads this effort. Its flagship project, the Malaika School, provides free, accredited education to over 400 girls, from primary to secondary levels. The school’s holistic curriculum includes STEM, arts, physical education, and health and nutrition programs; also extending their impact through a community center offering adult literacy, vocational training, sports programs to over 5,000 people. This sustainable, community-driven approach is transforming lives and empowering communities across the DRC. We encourage you to support this cause and help further Malaika’s work.

To contribute, artist Irene Fernández Arcas and musician D'aro Mambu organized together in Refuge Worldwide a fundraiser event in August 2024.

For it, irene launched a merch line titled “Joy&Pain,” designed specifically for this fundraiser. The collection explores life’s connection between trauma, resilience, joy,& pain. Inspired by the transformative power of music, the design emphasizes connection, healing, and hope. The concept, “tabasamu kupitia maumivu” (Swahili for “smile through the pain”), reflects the resilience and hope we aim to nurture. The item is a limited-edition shirt printed in blue by blackandink.

This edition is Sold Out - but we might print more! stay updated in social media for new relaunch of this or oder clothing and merch products.

Or if you are interested send an email to hello@irenefernandezarcas.com to preorder and we will reprint when enough orders are collected.