Reece Wabara, the CEO of fashion brand Manière De Voir, has confirmed his departure from his position in the wake of a controversy surrounding remarks he made on social media about experiencing racial bias due to his mixed-race heritage.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Wabara announced his decision to step down from the role of CEO. He cited a recent meeting with the board as the catalyst for his departure. Wabara expressed gratitude for the support he received during his tenure, spanning a decade, and stated his intention to focus on personal ventures moving forward.
Wabara's announcement followed a series of comments made on the same platform regarding alleged racial bias he encountered, which have since been deleted. In one of these now-deleted posts, he remarked, "If anybody of asingular [sic] race achieved what I did, they'd be worshipped."
The departure of Wabara, who has been instrumental in the growth and development of Manière De Voir, marks a significant change in the leadership of the fashion brand. His tenure has seen the company rise in prominence within the fashion industry over the past decade.
The controversy surrounding Wabara's remarks has sparked conversations about racial bias and representation within corporate leadership. Wabara's comments have drawn attention to the challenges faced by individuals of mixed-race heritage in navigating and addressing issues of bias and discrimination.
Manière De Voir has yet to make an official statement regarding Wabara's departure or the circumstances surrounding it. The company is expected to initiate a search for a new CEO to fill the vacancy left by Wabara.
As discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion continue to gain traction across various industries, Wabara's departure from Manière De Voir serves as a reminder of the ongoing complexities and challenges faced in addressing issues of racial bias within corporate environments.