The just-concluded“AFAA” African Fashion and Arts AwardBusiness and Mentorship Summit, held in Abuja and Lagos, has left an indelible mark on Africa's creative landscape. The summit, which took place on March 23rd in Abuja and April 13th in Lagos, brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and aspiring creatives to explore new horizons, foster collaboration, and drive innovation in the fashion and art sectors.
In Abuja, the summit kicked off with a series of engaging keynote addresses and panel discussions. Notable speakers such as the Hon. Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmud (Represented), the Senior Special Advisor to the President on Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mr. Ayo Adeagbo, Director-General of the National Gallery of Art, Director-General of SMEDAN, Mrs. Lynda Agiriga, The COO of AFAA FOUNDATION, The president of SKYEWISE group,Director of Arts and Culture, FCTA Social Development Secretariate, Olukayode Felix Aiyebgusi,Dr. Elvis Abuyere, Mr. Charlse Orosanye the CEO of AFRICANNA Couture,Amb. Kingsley Amafibe,Mr. Micheal Fasere of Pashione, Mrs. Christabel Benson of Tin City Fashion Week, Cecilia James of CecejVentures amongst several dignitaries were at the summit.
They highlighted the importance of the creative economy in driving sustainable development and emphasized the need for strategic partnerships to unlock the full potential of Africa's creative industries.
Mr. Kingsley Amako, the Founder and President of AFAA in his opening speech highlighted the AFAA Business and Mentorship Summit in several cities in the continent beginning with Abuja & Lagos as a significant step towards empowering African creatives. He stresses the importance of collaboration and capacity building in narrowing the gap between the private and public sectors, ensuring that African creatives' voices are not just acknowledged but also comprehended. Mr. Amako extends his appreciation to all participants, speakers, sponsors, and partners for their contributions to the summit's success. He reiterates his dedication to the AFAA Foundation's mission and eagerly anticipates the ongoing growth and achievements of African creatives in the global creative arena. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the AFAA Foundation, aimed at providing support and resources to emerging African creatives, thereby promoting growth and innovation in the industry. Co-founder of the AFAA Foundation, Mrs. Lynda Agiriga, believes that the foundation's mentorship programs will empower creatives, guiding them to success with insights from industry experts. Furthermore, the summit featured renowned fashion designers such as AFRO BAE & BOO, TOPKRAFT COUTURE, KONY REPUBLIC, HUSTLE APPARELS, and JESSA JOANcollection, highlighting the industry's diversity and talent.
The presence of news channels like News Central, Aso TV & Radio, Radio Nigeria, NTA, and AIT,Abuja Press and others were present. Their coverage helped to amplify the message of empowerment and collaboration that was at the heart of the summit. The summit's momentum continued in Lagos, where participants were treated to a spectacular showcase of African fashion and art ESTHERNER’s, JOHN MEX, Ògbéni MMXIITM, EMERALDApparelz, and ICEDOTCOM, wowed the audience with their latest collections, blending traditional African aesthetics with modern design trends. The fashion show was a testament to the rich cultural heritage and creative ingenuity of Africa's fashion and art scene. The summit also featured esteemed speakers such as the President of Que Concepts, Mr. Santiago Roberts, the CEO Fashion Law Institute Bernice Asein; Fashion Stylist and Founder of Info-world charming, Smart Courage; CEO of Weph and Co Technologies, Mr Harvey Wisdom Nwachukwu, Queen Tosin AdeduroCEO Miss Eco Nigeria and Reigning Queen, Miss Eco Nigeria, and Vivian Onuigbo.
The summit's success was further amplified by strategic partnerships with leading organizations such as TOPMANDY, andPASHIONE. These partnerships underscored the commitment to supporting and promoting the African creative industries, paving the way for future collaborations and initiatives. The upcoming AFAA Business and Mentorship Summit in Kenya is poised to be a groundbreaking event, continuing the momentum of empowering African creatives. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with creativity, mentorship, inspiration with luxury fashion exhibition, as well as valuable networking opportunities that could shape their careers. As Africa continues to assert its influence on the global stage, AFAA is committed to connecting Africa, empowering, rewarding and celebrating creatives. For sponsorship and inquiries, please visit our social platforms @afaawards the official website, www.afaawards.org or call 07055445987.
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