Michaela Coel’s TIFF Look Made a Powerful Political Statement

How Michaela Coel Pulled Off Her TIFF Tribute To Sudan, With An Entire Team Of Sudanese Women

Sudanese photographer Nabra Badr tells Refinery29 how Michaela Coel's TIFF look came together, what it was like to be in the room with Coel as she honored Sudanese women, and why her team was adamant that the photos be so good, people would stop scrolling and pay attention.

Michaela Coel’s TIFF Look Made a Powerful Political Statement

“I’m inspired by [Sudanese women’s] resilience and determination, and wanted to pay tribute to them and help give their stories a platform for recognition.”

Michaela Coel Honours Sudanese Women in Toub at TIFF

To say I’ve missed Michaela Coel on the red carpet would be an understatement. Her absence was felt — especially as her Vogue UK September issue cover had already reminded us of her presence in Alaïa Fall 2025. So when she appeared at the premiere of The Christophers during the Toronto Film Festival, the joy was layered.  Savion Washington/Getty Images First, the obvious: she was back. But what moved me more was the purpose behind her look. Mich…