Not just in fiction, but out in the real world, whenever adversity hits, some relentless people rebel. Fueled by creativity, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit, they shatter boundaries and soar above all challenges. They’re the ones who keep walking, forging a path to their dreams.
Walkers & Co. is an extraordinary community that celebrates and empowers these creators, who, with their unique vision, not only paved a way for themselves but also uplifted communities and ushered in a positive change.
For their previous campaign, Walkers & Co. roped in Hanif Kureshi who is known for creating inspiring urban and contemporary art. Now, Mr. Kureshi is passing the baton to the Aravani Art Project and Pearl D’Souza. Let’s delve into their inspiring story.
Aravani Art Project
Times are changing and one can clearly witness the rising support for transgenders, gender non-conforming folks, and the vibrant queer community. But even with this progress, the battle against stigma, inequality, and discrimination is far from over. Enter the Aravani Art Project, a beacon of hope in this journey towards a more inclusive world. Led by trans-women and cis-women, this art collective aims to bring about a positive change.
They are on a mission to create a safe space for the transgender community to create, collaborate, and work on various artistic endeavours. Further, the Aravani Art Project works in collaboration with skilled transgender artists who paint and execute commissioned art projects. Their ultimate aim is to empower the community to step out in public with confidence, a sense of safety, and belonging. The Aravani Art Project has truly turned their passion for art into a societal practice.
Pearl D’Souza
When it comes to making a difference with creativity and art, one name shines brightly and it’s Mumbai-based illustrator extraordinaire, Pearl D’Souza. She’s a natural storyteller at heart and embarked on her creative journey by earning a design degree from the Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology in Bangalore. But that was just the beginning! She has used her artistic talents as a powerful weapon to spark a conversation on gender diversity and an equal platform for all. Pearl is also a plant enthusiast, and can often be found sketching botanicals in her journals.
Walkers & Co. joined forces with none other than multi-talented sensation John Legend, who has achieved the coveted EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony), and the Grammy-nominated rapper, Raja Kumari, to create a powerful anthem, ‘Keep Walking’. And to elevate the spirit even further, through the anthem, they celebrate the spirit of those who refuse to surrender and inspire us to keep walking forward.
It’s truly remarkable to see how Walkers & Co. is empowering not just individuals, but entire communities. Cheers to this movement gaining even more momentum in the near future!