At least 20 models with disabilities stole the limelight on the catwalk in Ivory Coast in a ground-breaking assault on taboo and stigma.
The models presented the latest and the best creations of Abidjan designers in the "Strong and Beautiful Together" event.
Moreover, the ladies appeared in a red suit, traditional Sahelian boubou robes, multi-coloured African bogolan prints and a blue tunic with printed motifs.
Leslie Antsere, who suffers from neurofibromatosis, a genetic disease which can cause disfiguring tumours, said she was delighted to take part in an event that had stopped her from "feeling ashamed."
The event was organized by the Mougnan Foundation which is an NGO improving the living conditions and empowering young women with disabilities.
