The salons of Togo are a cornerstone of the West African community.
Its a place of gossip, to hear the local folklore.
A place to share celebration, a place to love.
From left, Adaku Adama Hondeglah, Têlé Akouavi Da Silveira, El Secret, Afi Adanleté, Hélene Azoyivo, Akou Ahidokpo, Noèlie Telou, Zoubéida Namoro, Ohiniba Madjri, N C J Ameyo Bakar, Ornella Priscilla Hundeglah, Marthe Ani, Tchangaï Pierrette.
Now, its also a place for women to seek counseling for their mental health.
It was always seen as something for white people or outsiders but not necessarily for people from Africa.
Each of the 13 women in this portfolio was chosen for their role in the Togolese community.
Photographed by Delali Ayivi
But now, because of my training, I react differently.
And I have noticed so much positive change.
We shared our experiences especially around the lack of professional support in the country.
N C J Ameyo Bakar wears a style inspired by legendary Togolesehairstylist Patron Aime’s archives.
It took 20 people two days to complete all of the braids for this shoot.
N C J Ameyo Bakar wears a style inspired by legendary Togolesehairstylist Patron Aime’s archives.
Helene Azoyivo, Noelie Telou, and Ornella Priscilla Hundeglah recline near a pond.
Photographed by Delali Ayivi
Marthe Ani with a Bow and Arrow braid.
Ohiniba Madjri
Afi Adanlete and Helene Azoyivo in styles inspired by mancala.
We forget how important nature can be for our wellbeing, says photographer Delali Ayivi.
Hélene Azoyivo, Noèlie Telou, and Ornella Priscilla Hundeglah recline near a pond.
El Secret
Ornella Priscilla Hundeglah works in the medical field in Togo.
Marthe Ani with a Bow and Arrow braid.
Ohiniba Madjri
Afi Adanleté and Hélene Azoyivo in styles inspired by mancala.
Zoubéida Namoro
Models Noèlie Telou, N C J Ameyo Bakar, and Ornella Priscilla Hundeglah lounge on the grass with braided floral hats on their heads, representative of sprouting thoughts.
“We forget how important nature can be for our wellbeing,” says photographer Delali Ayivi.
Photographed by Delali Ayivi
Ornella Priscilla Hundeglah works in the medical field in Togo.
Photographed by Delali Ayivi
