Kiera Chaplin – Model, Multifaceted Business Woman and Activist

Charlie Chaplin’s granddaughter talks to us about her experience in activism

Take one step at a time, believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who lift you up. You’ve got this!

Interview by Ada Iliopoulou

How did you start to care about women’s rights?

I’ve always believed in fairness and standing up for what’s right, but my passion for women’s rights really grew over time. I saw so many strong, talented women being underestimated, overlooked, or mistreated simply because of their gender. It wasn’t just something happening far away, it was everywhere, in every industry. I realized that if I had a platform, I needed to use it to amplify these issues and support real change.

Since March 2019, you’ve been responsible for Fondation Fleur du Désert, a nonprofit organization founded by model and bestselling author Waris Dirie. Tell us more about it.

Yes, it’s been an incredible journey. Waris Dirie is such an inspiration, and her foundation does vital work in fighting against female genital mutilation (FGM) and advocating for women’s rights, especially in Africa. When I took on the role, my goal was to help expand the foundation’s reach and impact. We focus on education, awareness, and providing real opportunities for girls so they can have control over their own futures. It’s about giving them not just a voice, but the power to shape their own lives.

In 2020, you completed the first school in Africa for this action.

Yes, that was such a proud moment! Building a school had been a dream because education is the key to breaking cycles of poverty and inequality. This wasn’t just about giving kids a place to learn; it was about giving them hope and the tools to create a better future. Seeing the students there, knowing what opportunities now exist for them, it was truly life changing.

What did your mother teach you about people and other women?

My mother is an incredible woman. She taught me to always treat people with kindness and respect, no matter who they are. She also showed me the importance of lifting other women up instead of seeing them as competition. She always said that strong women support each other, and that’s something I carry with me every day.

Tell us about your future plans for the Charlie Awards.

The Charlie Awards have always been about celebrating creativity, innovation, and people who make a real impact. Moving forward, I want to expand the platform even further, reaching more industries, recognizing even more incredible talent, and making it an even bigger celebration of people who are changing the world in their own way.

What are your new companies?

Right now, I have Sybabliss, my online store offering luxury fashion at discounted prices. Then there’s Bufarma, my skincare line, which is something I’m really excited about. It’s made with buffalo milk, which is incredibly innovative and packed with nourishing properties for the skin. And of course, there’s Generation, my alcohol brand, which I started with my brother, Spencer Chaplin. It’s all about celebrating life’s beautiful moments and bringing people together. Each of these projects is really close to my heart, and I can’t wait to see them grow.

What do you say to every woman who is trying to rebuild her life?

I’d tell her that she’s stronger than she thinks. Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we have to start over, but that doesn’t mean we’ve failed. It means we have a new chance to create something even better. Take one step at a time, believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who lift you up. You’ve got this.

Thank you very much!