US Ambassador’s remarks at the Cameroon Fashion Week

Your Excellency, Senator Aicha Pierrette Hayatou;

My fellow Ambassadors and High Commissioners;

Members of the Diplomatic Corps;

Fashion enthusiasts;

Ladies and gentlemen;

This week is not just about looking at majestic clothes and designs – though we look forward to that portion as well. This week is about supporting the dreams of entrepreneurs, especially our young- up and coming entrepreneurs- like those here today- who are taking what they create and putting it out for the world to admire.

Admirers become consumers and consumers create demand. They are taking what they have and essentially -- creating jobs.

Throughout my travels in Cameroon, I have met young people who have these dreams. Who are ready to start a venture of their own -- to contribute to the economic development of Cameroon and shape its destiny.

That’s the essence of entrepreneurship.

Innovation. Such as the innovation we see here today with Dominique Hodieb, who takes one of the oldest, iconic practices of African head wraps and gives it a modern twist. Or Clovis Keuleu, who takes art off of the canvas onto the canvas of real people.

Speaking of art. As you enjoy the fashion show today, I invite you to admire the exceptional art in my residence. Most U.S. Ambassadors display American art in their homes. However, I want the residence to reflect the amazing talent I see every day, here in Cameroon.

I’m honored that one of your icons agreed to allow me to display his works of art. Mr. Max Lyonga. A self-taught artist who could easily sell any one of those paintings and retire happily in a villa somewhere.

Instead, he has chosen to mentor young people in the arts and use his pieces as a tool for dialogue and exchange. He has chosen to use his talent to help humanity.

So, to the designers, artists and innovators here today: This is your week! I hope you will be inspired, as I am, by the extraordinary talent, here in Cameroon, and the endless possibilities that they represent in moving your country’s vision forward.

Congratulations to Yves and to the Center for Creative Design. Thank you once again.