Together We Rise: Adama and Awa

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Paris-based twins and PSG diehards, Adama and Awa, have spent a lifetime embodying the ethos of 'Together We Rise' and understand the true value in working as a collective to push for bigger goals.

Oct 27, 2024
Amie Cripps
Words by
Suleika Mueller
Photography by

Welcome to ‘Together We Rise’, a new editorial partnership from VERSUS and Nike exploring the women who are blazing a trail to shape the future of sport and culture. Nike’s Third Kits for the 24/25 season have turned the Swoosh vertical to mark the non-stop rise of women’s football – and this is where we celebrate the players and fans who have made this change possible.

Parisian-based content creators and creative consultants, Adama and Awa, live and breathe football. The PSG diehards have been a beacon for football fashion over the years courtesy of their cold streetwear fits. Now, as a part of Nike’s ‘Together We Rise’ third kit campaign, they’re bringing together their passions of football, fashion and community to celebrate the rise of the women’s game. 

Adama and Awa sat down with VERSUS after wearing PSG’s new third shirt to discuss the power of community, the importance of having football kits that empower players and fans alike, and their words of advice for the next wave of changemakers.

We’re seeing more and more players dip their toes into the world of fashion. Why do you think that is?

Awa: We think it’s really dope! It’s great because it speaks to and inspires many people. Being an inspiration, in one way or another, is what every player strives to achieve, whether in football or in fashion. It doesn't matter which arena they’re in; the desire to influence and motivate others remains constant. Fashion allows footballers to reach a new audience that isn’t necessarily interested in football. The more people watching women’s football, the better!

Awa: More footballers are turning to fashion as a way to express their individuality and creativity outside of the pitch. With the rise of social media, players have a platform to showcase their personal style and connect with fans on a deeper level. Additionally, collaborations with fashion brands allow them to blend their athleticism with artistry, creating unique pieces that resonate with both sports and fashion enthusiasts. This crossover enhances their personal brand but also promotes a culture where athletes can redefine what it means to be influential.

You can’t rise to the top without overcoming barriers. What’s been your biggest challenge to date?

Adama: Our biggest challenge is to cultivate consistency and discipline. Laziness can often creep in, becoming our greatest obstacle. To combat this, we need to stay focused on our goals and create routines that keep us accountable.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

From our teammate: "Trust the process, don’t rush greatness. Be patient and have faith in yourself."

What does it take to be at the top of your game?

Adama: A quick recipe: patience and passion, because it's passion that drives us. And patience, because sometimes we can feel frustrated about not getting what we want quickly.

If you could link up with any artist to collaborate on a track for ‘Together We Rise’ who would it be and why?

Awa: Raye because she never gives us. She’s been really open about her struggles in the music industry and what it’s taken to get to where she is today. And even when people may have given up on her, she’s never given up on herself. We think that’s a really appropriate mentality for this campaign. 

What piece of advice would you give to the next wave of women game changers in sport and culture?

Adama: In our experience, the best advice we can give is to stay confident and believe in yourself. Embracing self-assurance helps you chase your passions fearlessly. At the same time, it’s super important to remain humble and open-minded; this allows you to learn from those around you and grow along the way. Don’t underestimate the power of reading, either — it broadens your perspective and sparks your creativity. Embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is part of your evolution.

PSG's 24/25 third kit is available to purchase now via Nike.com

---

Adama and Awa wear Nike, HOOPS + CHAINS LDN, HORTI, Sandro and Granny London.

No items found.

VERSUS: ‘Together We Rise’ celebrates the ascendency of the women’s game. How important is it to showcase this narrative?

Adama: Celebrating women in the game of football is important for me because it’s vital for the next generation. Girls and boys alike need to grow up with strong values. By sharing this narrative, we send a powerful message that unity is essential. Together, we are always better than we are alone.

What does ‘Together We Rise’ mean to you as individuals?

Awa: For us, it’s a perfect example because we are twins. You have to know that since day one, everything we do is influenced by the fact that there are two of us. It works because we have each other’s support, not just one force. It’s also a message of motivation for us, and it means a lot to have you in our lives – the idea that you’ll never be alone and someone will always have your back. 

What role do you think kits and apparel play in pushing the women’s game forward?

Adama: For us, the kit is really important. The jersey represents something significant because you wear it for 90 minutes. It defines your values, what you stand for, and what you want to show with pride. Wearing the jersey connects you to your teammates and the larger community, creating a sense of belonging. It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of dedication and the hard work that goes into every match.

We have seen such a momentum in women’s football since Euro 2022, the UWCL and even the domestic leagues. What are you excited for next?

Awa: First of all, we were very happy to see women in video games like EA FC25. Now, we hope to see them in more advertisements and collaborations, such as sneakers and jerseys, as well as larger campaigns focused exclusively on women – “Together We Rise” is a perfect example of that. It’s important for representation to expand beyond just gaming and into all aspects of culture, though. Women athletes – and gamers – deserve to be showcased in ways that highlight their skills and achievements. By featuring women prominently, we can inspire the next generation and show them that they belong in every arena; especially the ones they might not have always felt a part of. 

The level of detail and storytelling that goes into kit design nowadays is next level. Each of these third kits has their own bespoke design language. What’s your favourite thing about this kit?

Adama: The first thing we love about the jersey is the colour pink. It’s a very cheerful colour and easy to match with all our clothes. It may be a cliché, but pink resonates well with women, too. We like the idea of Nike taking a colour that has typically been associated with womanhood and using it for a third kit campaign, that’s really cool.  Additionally, we have never seen a PSG jersey in this colour before, which makes it even more special. This unique shade of pink not only stands out but also symbolises confidence and empowerment. Wearing it makes us feel connected to a community of strong women who embrace their individuality. Plus, it adds a fun twist to our game-day outfits, allowing us to express our personal style while supporting our team. The best of both worlds!

No items found.

Together We Rise: Adama and Awa

Paris-based twins and PSG diehards, Adama and Awa, have spent a lifetime embodying the ethos of 'Together We Rise' and understand the true value in working as a collective to push for bigger goals.

Oct 27, 2024
Amie Cripps
Words by
Suleika Mueller
Photography by

Welcome to ‘Together We Rise’, a new editorial partnership from VERSUS and Nike exploring the women who are blazing a trail to shape the future of sport and culture. Nike’s Third Kits for the 24/25 season have turned the Swoosh vertical to mark the non-stop rise of women’s football – and this is where we celebrate the players and fans who have made this change possible.

Parisian-based content creators and creative consultants, Adama and Awa, live and breathe football. The PSG diehards have been a beacon for football fashion over the years courtesy of their cold streetwear fits. Now, as a part of Nike’s ‘Together We Rise’ third kit campaign, they’re bringing together their passions of football, fashion and community to celebrate the rise of the women’s game. 

Adama and Awa sat down with VERSUS after wearing PSG’s new third shirt to discuss the power of community, the importance of having football kits that empower players and fans alike, and their words of advice for the next wave of changemakers.

No items found.

VERSUS: ‘Together We Rise’ celebrates the ascendency of the women’s game. How important is it to showcase this narrative?

Adama: Celebrating women in the game of football is important for me because it’s vital for the next generation. Girls and boys alike need to grow up with strong values. By sharing this narrative, we send a powerful message that unity is essential. Together, we are always better than we are alone.

What does ‘Together We Rise’ mean to you as individuals?

Awa: For us, it’s a perfect example because we are twins. You have to know that since day one, everything we do is influenced by the fact that there are two of us. It works because we have each other’s support, not just one force. It’s also a message of motivation for us, and it means a lot to have you in our lives – the idea that you’ll never be alone and someone will always have your back. 

What role do you think kits and apparel play in pushing the women’s game forward?

Adama: For us, the kit is really important. The jersey represents something significant because you wear it for 90 minutes. It defines your values, what you stand for, and what you want to show with pride. Wearing the jersey connects you to your teammates and the larger community, creating a sense of belonging. It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of dedication and the hard work that goes into every match.

We have seen such a momentum in women’s football since Euro 2022, the UWCL and even the domestic leagues. What are you excited for next?

Awa: First of all, we were very happy to see women in video games like EA FC25. Now, we hope to see them in more advertisements and collaborations, such as sneakers and jerseys, as well as larger campaigns focused exclusively on women – “Together We Rise” is a perfect example of that. It’s important for representation to expand beyond just gaming and into all aspects of culture, though. Women athletes – and gamers – deserve to be showcased in ways that highlight their skills and achievements. By featuring women prominently, we can inspire the next generation and show them that they belong in every arena; especially the ones they might not have always felt a part of. 

The level of detail and storytelling that goes into kit design nowadays is next level. Each of these third kits has their own bespoke design language. What’s your favourite thing about this kit?

Adama: The first thing we love about the jersey is the colour pink. It’s a very cheerful colour and easy to match with all our clothes. It may be a cliché, but pink resonates well with women, too. We like the idea of Nike taking a colour that has typically been associated with womanhood and using it for a third kit campaign, that’s really cool.  Additionally, we have never seen a PSG jersey in this colour before, which makes it even more special. This unique shade of pink not only stands out but also symbolises confidence and empowerment. Wearing it makes us feel connected to a community of strong women who embrace their individuality. Plus, it adds a fun twist to our game-day outfits, allowing us to express our personal style while supporting our team. The best of both worlds!

We’re seeing more and more players dip their toes into the world of fashion. Why do you think that is?

Awa: We think it’s really dope! It’s great because it speaks to and inspires many people. Being an inspiration, in one way or another, is what every player strives to achieve, whether in football or in fashion. It doesn't matter which arena they’re in; the desire to influence and motivate others remains constant. Fashion allows footballers to reach a new audience that isn’t necessarily interested in football. The more people watching women’s football, the better!

Awa: More footballers are turning to fashion as a way to express their individuality and creativity outside of the pitch. With the rise of social media, players have a platform to showcase their personal style and connect with fans on a deeper level. Additionally, collaborations with fashion brands allow them to blend their athleticism with artistry, creating unique pieces that resonate with both sports and fashion enthusiasts. This crossover enhances their personal brand but also promotes a culture where athletes can redefine what it means to be influential.

You can’t rise to the top without overcoming barriers. What’s been your biggest challenge to date?

Adama: Our biggest challenge is to cultivate consistency and discipline. Laziness can often creep in, becoming our greatest obstacle. To combat this, we need to stay focused on our goals and create routines that keep us accountable.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

From our teammate: "Trust the process, don’t rush greatness. Be patient and have faith in yourself."

What does it take to be at the top of your game?

Adama: A quick recipe: patience and passion, because it's passion that drives us. And patience, because sometimes we can feel frustrated about not getting what we want quickly.

If you could link up with any artist to collaborate on a track for ‘Together We Rise’ who would it be and why?

Awa: Raye because she never gives us. She’s been really open about her struggles in the music industry and what it’s taken to get to where she is today. And even when people may have given up on her, she’s never given up on herself. We think that’s a really appropriate mentality for this campaign. 

What piece of advice would you give to the next wave of women game changers in sport and culture?

Adama: In our experience, the best advice we can give is to stay confident and believe in yourself. Embracing self-assurance helps you chase your passions fearlessly. At the same time, it’s super important to remain humble and open-minded; this allows you to learn from those around you and grow along the way. Don’t underestimate the power of reading, either — it broadens your perspective and sparks your creativity. Embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is part of your evolution.

PSG's 24/25 third kit is available to purchase now via Nike.com

---

Adama and Awa wear Nike, HOOPS + CHAINS LDN, HORTI, Sandro and Granny London.

No items found.

Related

Interviews

Together We Rise: Adama and Awa

Paris-based twins and PSG diehards, Adama and Awa, have spent a lifetime embodying the ethos of 'Together We Rise' and understand the true value in working as a collective to push for bigger goals.

Words by
Amie Cripps
Oct 27, 2024
Photography by
Suleika Mueller
Example of image caption
Image caption goes here

Welcome to ‘Together We Rise’, a new editorial partnership from VERSUS and Nike exploring the women who are blazing a trail to shape the future of sport and culture. Nike’s Third Kits for the 24/25 season have turned the Swoosh vertical to mark the non-stop rise of women’s football – and this is where we celebrate the players and fans who have made this change possible.

Parisian-based content creators and creative consultants, Adama and Awa, live and breathe football. The PSG diehards have been a beacon for football fashion over the years courtesy of their cold streetwear fits. Now, as a part of Nike’s ‘Together We Rise’ third kit campaign, they’re bringing together their passions of football, fashion and community to celebrate the rise of the women’s game. 

Adama and Awa sat down with VERSUS after wearing PSG’s new third shirt to discuss the power of community, the importance of having football kits that empower players and fans alike, and their words of advice for the next wave of changemakers.

No items found.

VERSUS: ‘Together We Rise’ celebrates the ascendency of the women’s game. How important is it to showcase this narrative?

Adama: Celebrating women in the game of football is important for me because it’s vital for the next generation. Girls and boys alike need to grow up with strong values. By sharing this narrative, we send a powerful message that unity is essential. Together, we are always better than we are alone.

What does ‘Together We Rise’ mean to you as individuals?

Awa: For us, it’s a perfect example because we are twins. You have to know that since day one, everything we do is influenced by the fact that there are two of us. It works because we have each other’s support, not just one force. It’s also a message of motivation for us, and it means a lot to have you in our lives – the idea that you’ll never be alone and someone will always have your back. 

What role do you think kits and apparel play in pushing the women’s game forward?

Adama: For us, the kit is really important. The jersey represents something significant because you wear it for 90 minutes. It defines your values, what you stand for, and what you want to show with pride. Wearing the jersey connects you to your teammates and the larger community, creating a sense of belonging. It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of dedication and the hard work that goes into every match.

We have seen such a momentum in women’s football since Euro 2022, the UWCL and even the domestic leagues. What are you excited for next?

Awa: First of all, we were very happy to see women in video games like EA FC25. Now, we hope to see them in more advertisements and collaborations, such as sneakers and jerseys, as well as larger campaigns focused exclusively on women – “Together We Rise” is a perfect example of that. It’s important for representation to expand beyond just gaming and into all aspects of culture, though. Women athletes – and gamers – deserve to be showcased in ways that highlight their skills and achievements. By featuring women prominently, we can inspire the next generation and show them that they belong in every arena; especially the ones they might not have always felt a part of. 

The level of detail and storytelling that goes into kit design nowadays is next level. Each of these third kits has their own bespoke design language. What’s your favourite thing about this kit?

Adama: The first thing we love about the jersey is the colour pink. It’s a very cheerful colour and easy to match with all our clothes. It may be a cliché, but pink resonates well with women, too. We like the idea of Nike taking a colour that has typically been associated with womanhood and using it for a third kit campaign, that’s really cool.  Additionally, we have never seen a PSG jersey in this colour before, which makes it even more special. This unique shade of pink not only stands out but also symbolises confidence and empowerment. Wearing it makes us feel connected to a community of strong women who embrace their individuality. Plus, it adds a fun twist to our game-day outfits, allowing us to express our personal style while supporting our team. The best of both worlds!

We’re seeing more and more players dip their toes into the world of fashion. Why do you think that is?

Awa: We think it’s really dope! It’s great because it speaks to and inspires many people. Being an inspiration, in one way or another, is what every player strives to achieve, whether in football or in fashion. It doesn't matter which arena they’re in; the desire to influence and motivate others remains constant. Fashion allows footballers to reach a new audience that isn’t necessarily interested in football. The more people watching women’s football, the better!

Awa: More footballers are turning to fashion as a way to express their individuality and creativity outside of the pitch. With the rise of social media, players have a platform to showcase their personal style and connect with fans on a deeper level. Additionally, collaborations with fashion brands allow them to blend their athleticism with artistry, creating unique pieces that resonate with both sports and fashion enthusiasts. This crossover enhances their personal brand but also promotes a culture where athletes can redefine what it means to be influential.

You can’t rise to the top without overcoming barriers. What’s been your biggest challenge to date?

Adama: Our biggest challenge is to cultivate consistency and discipline. Laziness can often creep in, becoming our greatest obstacle. To combat this, we need to stay focused on our goals and create routines that keep us accountable.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

From our teammate: "Trust the process, don’t rush greatness. Be patient and have faith in yourself."

What does it take to be at the top of your game?

Adama: A quick recipe: patience and passion, because it's passion that drives us. And patience, because sometimes we can feel frustrated about not getting what we want quickly.

If you could link up with any artist to collaborate on a track for ‘Together We Rise’ who would it be and why?

Awa: Raye because she never gives us. She’s been really open about her struggles in the music industry and what it’s taken to get to where she is today. And even when people may have given up on her, she’s never given up on herself. We think that’s a really appropriate mentality for this campaign. 

What piece of advice would you give to the next wave of women game changers in sport and culture?

Adama: In our experience, the best advice we can give is to stay confident and believe in yourself. Embracing self-assurance helps you chase your passions fearlessly. At the same time, it’s super important to remain humble and open-minded; this allows you to learn from those around you and grow along the way. Don’t underestimate the power of reading, either — it broadens your perspective and sparks your creativity. Embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is part of your evolution.

PSG's 24/25 third kit is available to purchase now via Nike.com

---

Adama and Awa wear Nike, HOOPS + CHAINS LDN, HORTI, Sandro and Granny London.

No items found.

Related

Together We Rise: Adama and Awa

Paris-based twins and PSG diehards, Adama and Awa, have spent a lifetime embodying the ethos of 'Together We Rise' and understand the true value in working as a collective to push for bigger goals.

Oct 27, 2024
Amie Cripps
Words by
Suleika Mueller
Photography by

Welcome to ‘Together We Rise’, a new editorial partnership from VERSUS and Nike exploring the women who are blazing a trail to shape the future of sport and culture. Nike’s Third Kits for the 24/25 season have turned the Swoosh vertical to mark the non-stop rise of women’s football – and this is where we celebrate the players and fans who have made this change possible.

Parisian-based content creators and creative consultants, Adama and Awa, live and breathe football. The PSG diehards have been a beacon for football fashion over the years courtesy of their cold streetwear fits. Now, as a part of Nike’s ‘Together We Rise’ third kit campaign, they’re bringing together their passions of football, fashion and community to celebrate the rise of the women’s game. 

Adama and Awa sat down with VERSUS after wearing PSG’s new third shirt to discuss the power of community, the importance of having football kits that empower players and fans alike, and their words of advice for the next wave of changemakers.

No items found.

VERSUS: ‘Together We Rise’ celebrates the ascendency of the women’s game. How important is it to showcase this narrative?

Adama: Celebrating women in the game of football is important for me because it’s vital for the next generation. Girls and boys alike need to grow up with strong values. By sharing this narrative, we send a powerful message that unity is essential. Together, we are always better than we are alone.

What does ‘Together We Rise’ mean to you as individuals?

Awa: For us, it’s a perfect example because we are twins. You have to know that since day one, everything we do is influenced by the fact that there are two of us. It works because we have each other’s support, not just one force. It’s also a message of motivation for us, and it means a lot to have you in our lives – the idea that you’ll never be alone and someone will always have your back. 

What role do you think kits and apparel play in pushing the women’s game forward?

Adama: For us, the kit is really important. The jersey represents something significant because you wear it for 90 minutes. It defines your values, what you stand for, and what you want to show with pride. Wearing the jersey connects you to your teammates and the larger community, creating a sense of belonging. It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of dedication and the hard work that goes into every match.

We have seen such a momentum in women’s football since Euro 2022, the UWCL and even the domestic leagues. What are you excited for next?

Awa: First of all, we were very happy to see women in video games like EA FC25. Now, we hope to see them in more advertisements and collaborations, such as sneakers and jerseys, as well as larger campaigns focused exclusively on women – “Together We Rise” is a perfect example of that. It’s important for representation to expand beyond just gaming and into all aspects of culture, though. Women athletes – and gamers – deserve to be showcased in ways that highlight their skills and achievements. By featuring women prominently, we can inspire the next generation and show them that they belong in every arena; especially the ones they might not have always felt a part of. 

The level of detail and storytelling that goes into kit design nowadays is next level. Each of these third kits has their own bespoke design language. What’s your favourite thing about this kit?

Adama: The first thing we love about the jersey is the colour pink. It’s a very cheerful colour and easy to match with all our clothes. It may be a cliché, but pink resonates well with women, too. We like the idea of Nike taking a colour that has typically been associated with womanhood and using it for a third kit campaign, that’s really cool.  Additionally, we have never seen a PSG jersey in this colour before, which makes it even more special. This unique shade of pink not only stands out but also symbolises confidence and empowerment. Wearing it makes us feel connected to a community of strong women who embrace their individuality. Plus, it adds a fun twist to our game-day outfits, allowing us to express our personal style while supporting our team. The best of both worlds!

We’re seeing more and more players dip their toes into the world of fashion. Why do you think that is?

Awa: We think it’s really dope! It’s great because it speaks to and inspires many people. Being an inspiration, in one way or another, is what every player strives to achieve, whether in football or in fashion. It doesn't matter which arena they’re in; the desire to influence and motivate others remains constant. Fashion allows footballers to reach a new audience that isn’t necessarily interested in football. The more people watching women’s football, the better!

Awa: More footballers are turning to fashion as a way to express their individuality and creativity outside of the pitch. With the rise of social media, players have a platform to showcase their personal style and connect with fans on a deeper level. Additionally, collaborations with fashion brands allow them to blend their athleticism with artistry, creating unique pieces that resonate with both sports and fashion enthusiasts. This crossover enhances their personal brand but also promotes a culture where athletes can redefine what it means to be influential.

You can’t rise to the top without overcoming barriers. What’s been your biggest challenge to date?

Adama: Our biggest challenge is to cultivate consistency and discipline. Laziness can often creep in, becoming our greatest obstacle. To combat this, we need to stay focused on our goals and create routines that keep us accountable.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

From our teammate: "Trust the process, don’t rush greatness. Be patient and have faith in yourself."

What does it take to be at the top of your game?

Adama: A quick recipe: patience and passion, because it's passion that drives us. And patience, because sometimes we can feel frustrated about not getting what we want quickly.

If you could link up with any artist to collaborate on a track for ‘Together We Rise’ who would it be and why?

Awa: Raye because she never gives us. She’s been really open about her struggles in the music industry and what it’s taken to get to where she is today. And even when people may have given up on her, she’s never given up on herself. We think that’s a really appropriate mentality for this campaign. 

What piece of advice would you give to the next wave of women game changers in sport and culture?

Adama: In our experience, the best advice we can give is to stay confident and believe in yourself. Embracing self-assurance helps you chase your passions fearlessly. At the same time, it’s super important to remain humble and open-minded; this allows you to learn from those around you and grow along the way. Don’t underestimate the power of reading, either — it broadens your perspective and sparks your creativity. Embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is part of your evolution.

PSG's 24/25 third kit is available to purchase now via Nike.com

---

Adama and Awa wear Nike, HOOPS + CHAINS LDN, HORTI, Sandro and Granny London.

No items found.