Women Extraordinary (2022)

Women Extraordinary tells the story of an exciting collaboration led by Malawian-Irish DJ Mona-Lisa Taurus, of the creative collective Gxrlcode, alongside DJ Chmba (Ellen Chilemba) of the inspiring Tiwale organisation – a youth-led community-based organization in Lilongwe, Malawi. Tiwale works to support and empower women, girls, and non-binary people in Malawi through educational and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Over three unforgettable days, Mona-Lisa and Chmba hosted a series of music, writing and poetry workshops for a group of 13 artists, with special appearances by local writers Tamanda Kanjaye and Singa Chilemba.

Inspired by the story of Brigid, the group also drew on the experience of South African-Irish singer Senita Appiakorang, who joined virtually from Ireland to share her knowledge and stories. GxrlCode and Tiwale are excited to maintain and develop these creative links between Ireland and Malawi into the future.

Women Extraordinary was filmed by Malawian documentary-maker Mono Tokyo (Dr Malumbo Kamanga) and was supported by the Embassy of Ireland in Lilongwe, Malawi.