Zainab Kwaw-Swanzy, editor, gal-dem
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m half Ghanaian and half Tanzanian, I’m in my final year of a Mathematics MSci at the University of Bristol and I’m from London.
Why did you decide to get involved in gal-dem?
I’m just tired of the lack of representation of women of colour in the media. I could pick up a magazine right now and not relate to any of it. Where is the hair advice that actually applies to my afro? Where are the must-have make-up products that cater to darker skin? We need to make our own platform to express ourselves because clearly no one is doing it for us. I believe that gal-dem is that platform; women of colour sharing their experiences and discussing all aspects of life.
What’s your role in gal-dem?
I’m the editor for gal-dem❤️ (gal-dem loves).
What do you personally want to achieve from being involved?
In a nutshell, gal-dem ❤️ is our ‘what’s hot’ section. It will include things like interviews with interesting/inspirational/up and coming people, and articles on really cool products and projects. My aim is to promote greatness and motivate others by giving people the recognition that they deserve.
Other interests/hobbies outside gal-dem?
I’ve played the piano since I was about 6. I really enjoy netball and athletics and I’m the President of my university’s Maths Society. I absolutely love making people laugh, but not as much as I love annoying them!
Fun fact about yourself?
I have an obsession with brightly coloured shoes and clothes, and have owned 17 pet fish in my lifetime.
Who inspires you?
My two older sisters, Zahra and Bishara. Zahra runs her own newspaper-zine and organises youth community projects. She’s also into fashion and has a women’s street wear label. Bish is an incredible artist and has just moved to Abu Dhabi to work as a teacher, They’ve both taught me that I can achieve anything that I put my mind to.
Email: zainab@gal-dem.com
Twitter: @zai_swanzy
Instagram: zai_swanzy
