Chanel, a renowned high-fashion brand, was founded by Coco Chanel in Paris in 1910. Its unique designs, exceptional quality and popularity among Haute Couture enthusiasts contributed to its global acclaim. The introduction of Chanel N°5 perfume further elevated its recognition. Over time, the brand has continued to captivate clients with its distinctive style and commitment to philanthropy.

Fondation CHANEL

In 2011, Chanel established Fondation CHANEL to champion the freedom and gender equality of young girls. The foundation operates with a distinctive and individualized approach, providing access to essential resources. It actively supports women across various regions, including Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the United Kingdom (U.K.) and the United States (U.S.). Notably, Fondation CHANEL is a part of the global initiative Equal Measure 2030, contributing to the advancement of women’s rights on a global scale.

Fondation CHANEL, Global Fund and Voix EssentiELLES

In 2020, The Global Fund and Fondation CHANEL partnered with Voix EssentiELLES to enhance access to health policies for girls in Western and Central Africa. In this region, people encounter gender discrimination and face violence against women. Gender bias contributes to health challenges for women, impacting areas such as HIV and post-partum complications for mothers and their children. The onset of COVID-19 has further exacerbated these existing health issues.

Voix EssentiELLES, with support from the Global Fund, is working to establish a meaningful connection between girls and Global Fund resources. These resources include decision-making websites and grant processes. Opportunities provided involve experiential learning under the guidance of the HER Voice Fund, an organization that focuses on strengthening women’s engagement in grant and policy processes in Eastern and Southern Africa. The $1.5 million campaign has been ongoing in Senegal, Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire since 2020.

Andrea d’Avack, President of Fondation CHANEL, highlights that supporting women-led organizations is crucial in combating gender inequality globally. Previous experiences have shown the significant impact of such campaigns, contributing to progress in promoting women’s roles in society. Chanel is excited to extend this transformative opportunity to Western and Central Africa.

Fondation CHANEL and myAgro

African women benefit from additional financial support. Fondation CHANEL partnered with myAgro to provide funding and training to female farmers in African countries: Mali and Senegal. MyAgro was formed by Anushka Ratnayake in 2011 to enhance the crop earnings of small farmers in West Africa. Due to social and financial obstacles encountered by women in Africa, female farmers do not reach their full potential in crop production. 

The main goal of the company is to supply farmers with relevant coaching, fertilizer and first-rate seeds. Along with resources, myAgro focuses on augmenting the prevalence of women in the agricultural field. The organization is intent on maximizing their harvests by contributing to females’ access to technical training and farmlands. Fondation CHANEL financed the campaign and contributed to the recruitment of female directors to develop and expand the economy for female farmers. 

–Stephanie Len

Photo: Flickr