Black women experience unique challenges when it comes to accessing proper healthcare and actor Michael B. Jordan wants to help.
The Black Panther star partnered with style platform GOAT for an exclusive sneaker raffle to raise funds for GirlTrek, the nation’s largest public health nonprofit dedicated to Black girls and women.
The sneakers–custom fits inspired by Jordan’s favorite movies — including The Nightmare Before Christmas, Coming To America, and The Last Dragon —
are crafted by Los Angeles designer the Shoe Surgeon.“I’ve loved sneakers since I was a kid and there are so many people in the sneaker community that inspire me. Coming up at a time where I couldn’t afford all these kicks, I would use my imagination to think about what my sneaker would look like if I had a chance to build it,” said Jordan in a press statement.
“Knowing that designing a pair of kicks has always been something I wanted to do, my best friend Sterling Brim
introduced me to the Shoe Surgeon, who provided me with an opportunity to combine my passion for sneakers and film and design some incredible sneakers inspired by some of my favorite movies. I’m excited to partner with GOAT to showcase my custom kicks to a community that loves sneakers as much as I do. More importantly, I’m excited to help bring awareness to the health movement amongst African American women, a cause that’s close to me and my family.”The raffle ended on September 27 with the winners expected to be announced on September 28 through the GOAT app. The proceeds will go toward initiatives targeting to help Black girls and women with access to quality healthcare.
“At GirlTrek, we lace up our sneakers and walk each day as a declaration of self-care. So, we’re beyond thrilled that Michael B. Jordan recognizes the beauty and power of Black women walking in the direction of our [happiest, healthiest] lives,” said Jewel Bush, GirlTrek’s chief of external affairs, in a statement.
“As the largest health movement for Black women in the country, it truly is a gift when Black men are passionate about Black women’s health and ready to join us on the frontlines,” she added.