The intellectual and dialogue pillar of ASWALK Festival
Where lived experience shapes policy, research, and the future.
The Africa Appearance Summit (AAS) is a continental forum where lived experience informs systems change. As the strategic dialogue platform within the ASWALK Festival ecosystem, AAS convenes people living with visible differences alongside healthcare professionals, researchers, psychologists, policymakers, advocates, and cultural leaders to advance equity, dignity, and inclusion.
What Is AAS?
AAS is more than a conference; it is a catalyst.
It moves beyond awareness to build actionable frameworks for health equity, psychosocial well-being, cultural shift, and social inclusion. At AAS, lived experience is recognised as expertise, and community priorities guide institutional response.
The AAS Experience
High-Level Dialogues
Conversations with healthcare leaders, global NGOs, and policy stakeholders on advancing skin health, appearance justice, and inclusion.
Research & Knowledge Exchange
Bridging lived reality with academic research, clinical practice, and psychosocial innovation.
Innovation & Practice
Showcasing emerging approaches in adaptive design, inclusive technologies, and community-based support.
Community-Led Agenda
Summit themes are shaped in collaboration with people most affected, ensuring relevance and accountability.
AAS at the Maiden Edition (2026)
In 2026, AAS will feature as a focused, high-impact track within the opening day of ASWALK Festival. It will set the tone for the festival, initiate partnerships, and launch advocacy and knowledge tools that will guide future editions.