Launch of the New United Souls Figure of Resistance: Aoua Keïta

At United Souls, every new figure of resistance is a celebration—a tribute to commitment, resilience, and the fight for human emancipation. Today, we are honored to introduce a new addition to our collection: Aoua Keïta, a trailblazer of feminist activism in Africa.

A Biographical Tribute by Amzat Boukari-Yabara

As always, this new figure comes with a biographical text by historian Amzat Boukari-Yabara, whose insightful and fraternal collaboration enriches the artistic and humanistic mission of United Souls.

This work sheds light on the remarkable journey of Aoua Keïta: a unionist, anti-colonialist activist, and the first woman elected as a member of parliament in Mali in 1959. Aoua Keïta embodied the unwavering belief that politics and social struggles are not reserved for men. Her autobiography, Femmes d’Afrique, remains a timeless source of inspiration across generations.

The Birth of a New Figure: A Genuine and Thoughtful Process

At United Souls, the selection of a figure of resistance is never driven by commercial calculations or opportunistic trends around popular icons. Our mission is clear: to leverage the unifying power of the brand to bring to public attention the imagery of resistance figures often neglected by history. The decision to include Aoua Keïta in the collection naturally followed a heartfelt exchange with François Piquemal, a French MP and admirer of her legacy. One evening, François sent me a message that resonated deeply:

"I would be so proud to wear Aoua Keïta close to my heart."

This simple but powerful message was a call to honor this exceptional woman, a symbol of Mali’s ongoing fight for sovereignty amidst neocolonial pressures. While Modibo Keïta, Mali’s founding father, was initially considered, Aoua Keïta’s inclusion fulfills a dual purpose: responding to this meaningful suggestion and addressing the gender imbalance in our collection.

A Portrait by Afi Kodjobi Tchoukpa

To bring Aoua Keïta to life visually, we turned to the committed artist Afi Kodjobi Tchoukpa, whose work profoundly explores the role of women in modern societies.

Afi, who previously contributed to our collection with a portrait of Wangari Maathai Muti, has a talent for capturing the soul of iconic women. Her current exhibition, WOMEN WHO TELL US – Afropean Stories, honors contemporary women activists, journalists, playwrights, philosophers, and authors shaping the narrative of the Afro-European identity. Afi’s artistry was indispensable in paying tribute to Aoua Keïta.

Why Aoua Keïta Matters Today

In a time when Mali faces neocolonial challenges and external forces exploiting its resources, Aoua Keïta stands as a timeless symbol of resistance. Her voice is a reminder of the collective effort needed for sovereignty and social justice.

By adding Aoua Keïta to the United Souls collection, we aim to amplify her legacy, honor her crucial role in Mali’s and Africa’s history, and inspire current and future generations.

Through its creations, United Souls continues to celebrate figures of resistance, their dedication, and their humanity—bridging the gap between memory, art, and social action.

Now available in our collection: Aoua Keïta, an unforgettable figure in the United Souls Pantheon.