Refugees embrace life as ‘sapeurs’ clothes
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Dear John,

Picture a refugee. You wouldn’t imagine someone parading down the street in lavish suits and elegant accessories...or would you? In Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of the Congo, refugee Francis Mbéré has found joy, pride and community by embracing life as a ‘sapeur’.

 
 
 
 

Sapeurs are followers of a fashion and cultural movement known as La Sape, which stands for the Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes (the Society of Ambiance Makers and Elegant People).

When sapeurs take to the streets in their suave suits, hats, ties and colourful waistcoats, their goal is not only to be admired, but to bring joy and entertainment to their communities.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Francis fled his home in the Central African Republic in 2013, after their neighbourhood was attacked by an armed group. Several members of his family – including his parents – were killed, while he and his one-year-old son Séverin were both received head wounds from flying shrapnel.

Today, Francis finds peace, joy and a level of acceptance in transforming into a spauer at the weekends. He’s even introduced Séverin (pictured above) to the art of La Sape, who loves it too.

 
 
 
 

Francis said: “The first time I decided to go out in the streets wearing sapeur clothes … I had so many emotions … I did not know people would support me, would applaud when I paraded. It was just magic.”

The hobby has also helped Francis forge friendships with Congolese sapeurs like Crèche Nkodia (pictured below, with Francis), who has been parading in Brazzaville since 2009.

 
 
 
 
Have you been inspired? Click here to find out more about sapeurs, and get fashion tips from this league of extraordinary gentlemen!
 
 
 
 
PS: Did you know that Francis’ country, CAR (Central African Republic), is among the most underfunded emergency responses? By making a gift today, you’re supporting the refugees that are most in need.
 
 

Kind regards,

Breno Valentini
International Supporter Care
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency

 
 
UNHCR The UN refugee Agency
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