The Nation Newspaper

Category: Fashion

  • Bibi Lawrence redefines elegance at Global Entrepreneurship Festival Fashion Show

    Bibi Lawrence redefines elegance at Global Entrepreneurship Festival Fashion Show

    Akure, Ondo State, played host to an unforgettable evening of fashion and culture on November 24th, as the inaugural Global Entrepreneurship Festival Fashion Show set a new benchmark for style and creativity in Nigeria. 

    Themed Beyond Boundaries, the event drew an illustrious crowd, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Africa’s leading philanthropist and Matron of African Entrepreneurship Development, Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija.

    The show was nothing short of spectacular with Afrobeat legend Femi Kuti delivering a stellar performance that electrified the audience. Attendees included international dignitaries, fashion enthusiasts, and cultural icons, all gathered to celebrate Nigeria’s creative ingenuity.

    Among the standout moments of the night was the showcase of Bibi Lawrence, a luxury fashion brand led by designer and CEO Blessing Eleh.

     Her collection featured a stunning lineup of wedding gowns, reception dresses, and African traditional couture, each piece reflecting the rich diversity of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

    Speaking on the significance of the event, Blessing Eleh described it as a pivotal moment for Nigerian fashion on the global stage.

     “This was more than just a fashion show; it was an opportunity to celebrate our culture and craftsmanship with the world,” she said. “Our collection pays homage to the beauty of Nigeria’s tribes—the Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Calabar, and more. Each piece is a story of our heritage, told through intricate designs and luxurious fabrics.”

    She highlighted the labor-intensive nature of the collection, adding, “The dedication to detail is what makes Bibi Lawrence unique. Some of the outfits took over 80 hours of beading, and one particular piece required three months of painstaking work. This level of craftsmanship underscores the luxury and quality we bring to every design.”

    The audience was captivated by the intricate beadwork and rich cultural motifs that defined the collection, earning Bibi Lawrence widespread acclaim. One guest described the designs as “a stunning fusion of tradition and modernity,” while others lauded the boldness and creativity that the brand brought to the runway.

    Reflecting on her journey as a designer, Blessing Eleh shared a heartfelt message about the importance of perseverance and passion. “Fashion is more than just creating beautiful clothes; it’s about telling stories, preserving culture, and inspiring others to dream beyond boundaries,” she said. “I hope our work shows that with dedication and a commitment to excellence, Nigerian designers can stand toe-to-toe with the best in the world.”

    The Global Entrepreneurship Festival Fashion Show was a resounding success, providing a platform for Nigerian designers like Blessing Eleh to shine on an international level. Bibi Lawrence’s collection not only captured the hearts of attendees but also reinforced Nigeria’s growing reputation as a hub for luxury fashion and creative excellence.

  • African ready-to-wear brand opens in Stoke-on-Trent in England

    African ready-to-wear brand opens in Stoke-on-Trent in England

    Eka by GlowLuxury, a dynamic ready-to-wear African fashion brand, has officially launched its newest store in the Stoke-on-Trent area of Staffordshire, England.

    The store’s launch last month was officiated by Adam Jogee, Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme.

    In his speech, Mr. Jogee praised Mrs. Abidemi and her team for their entrepreneurial vision and significant contributions to the local community.

     He highlighted the vital role of supporting local businesses and fostering diversity in the area.

    At the grand opening, Founder Mrs. Abidemi expressed heartfelt gratitude to MP Adam Jogee for his support and to the community for their warm reception.

    “We are thrilled to bring the beauty and elegance of African fashion to Stoke-on-Trent,” she said. “Eka by GlowLuxury is more than just a store; it’s a celebration of culture and a platform for self-expression.”

    Mrs. Abidemi revealed that the brand was inspired by the legacy of her late mother, Mrs. Essienawan Bassey Oku.

    She described Eka the brand as a tribute to her mother’s elegance and vibrancy, which are reflected in the designs.

    “Our mission is to empower individuals to express their cultural heritage and personal style through fashion,” she explained. “We believe African fashion is not just a trend; it’s a timeless expression of beauty, creativity, and cultural identity.”

    The clothing brand showcases a stunning collection of ready-to-wear African fashion, featuring everything from elegant dresses to stylish accessories. For those seeking bespoke creations, the brand also offers a curated selection of premium Ankara fabrics, ideal for custom designs.

    More than just a fashion store, Eka by GlowLuxury serves as a cultural hub. It provides professional styling services and houses a photography studio, creating a space where individuals can embrace their unique style while celebrating their cultural heritage.

    Located at 35 High Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Newcastle ST5 1QZ, United Kingdom, the brand is a testament to Mrs. Abidemi’s passion for African culture and fashion. It reflects a commitment to empowering clients to express their identity through timeless and creative designs.

  • Dozzy Couture opens new showroom, supports Nigerian craftsmanship, economic growth

    Dozzy Couture opens new showroom, supports Nigerian craftsmanship, economic growth

    Dozzy Couture, a premium men’s fashion brand known for its quality and style, celebrated the grand opening of its new showroom on November 10th, 2024.

     Located on Ago Palace Way, Okota in Lagos Mainland, this new space showcases Dozzy Couture’s wide range of ready-to-wear collections, including ready-to-wear men’s clothing, kaftans, traditional attire, corporate and casual wear, as well as accessories for both traditional and modern styles.

    Clients, fashion lovers, and prospective customers gathered to mark this milestone, getting an exclusive look at the showroom’s offerings. The event highlighted Dozzy Couture’s dedication to providing men with stylish, high-quality clothing tailored for today’s fashion needs in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.

    “We created Dozzy Couture to offer men’s fashion that blends quality with style and accessibility,” said Mr. Dozzy Nnamdi Obinwanne, CEO and Founder of Dozzy Couture.

     “This showroom allows us to make that vision real, offering a place where men can find everything they need in one spot, while also supporting Nigeria’s growing fashion industry.”

    Mrs. Chinwe Obinwanne,Dozzy Couture’s Brand and Marketing Communications Manager, added: “This new showroom isn’t just about the clothes; it’s about the whole experience. Our clients can come in, find what suits them, and leave feeling confident and well-dressed. 

    “We’re happy to be able to serve our customers better and contribute to Lagos’s reputation as a leading fashion hub.”

    Dr. Godwin Nwabunka, CEO of Grooming Center Group and Founder of Amadeus University in Amizi, Abia State—represented by Engr. Chijioke Okafor, MD of MQUID Integrated Solutions Ltd—shared: “Dozzy Couture’s dedication to quality and service truly stands out. 

    “From corporate attire to kaftans, natives, and even uniforms for our companies and matriculation gowns for our university, Dozzy Couture has been our trusted partner for years. It’s inspiring to witness Nigerian brands like this grow and add real value to our local economy.”

    Sir Tony Ezeani of Tomez Group Limited who is also a long-time customer of the brand said: “Dozzy Couture has been my go-to for men’s fashion in Nigeria. I’m glad to have a place where I can now come in, choose what I need, and know I’m getting quality that meets my expectations.”

    The new showroom stands as a symbol of Dozzy Couture’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fashion industry. 

    By employing local talent, sourcing materials within the country, and driving forward with innovative designs, Dozzy Couture is making a positive impact on the economy, creating jobs, and helping to establish Lagos as a center for African fashion.

  • Tosmerc clothings: A cultural powerhouse in need of modern innovation

    Tosmerc clothings: A cultural powerhouse in need of modern innovation

    By Kehinde Oluleye 

    Introduction

    Tosmerc Clothings has established themselves as a major participant in African women’s fashion, combining traditional legacy with contemporary design. The business is recognised for its use of vivid textiles such as Ankara, Adire, and Kente, as well as its superior workmanship and ethical principles. Tosmerc is on its way to become a global brand after expanding into overseas markets, mainly the United Kingdom. However, in order to maintain its current success and compete in the larger fashion business, the company must solve many important areas.

    Craftsmanship and Design

    Tosmerc Clothings is known for its painstaking craftsmanship, which results in well-constructed clothing with attention to detail. The diversity of its designs, which span from casual wear to delicate Aso Ebi items, appeals to a diverse range of clientele. However, while the brand excels at respecting African history through its designs, there is a notable lack of creativity. The dependence on classic shapes and motifs, although culturally significant, might feel restrictive. Tosmerc, an industry that values innovation, might benefit from more creative techniques that combine classic textiles with current, fashion-forward cutting. This would help the brand to reach a larger and more diversified audience.

    Innovation and Global Appeal

    While Tosmerc’s commitment to maintaining cultural history is admirable, the global fashion environment rewards firms who effectively combine tradition with innovation. To compete on a global scale, Tosmerc must push the frontiers of its designs, experimenting with new materials, modern shapes, and striking reinterpretations of traditional African costume. This allows the company to widen its appeal beyond its core base, catering to fashion-conscious shoppers searching for unusual yet wearable pieces.

    Sustainability and Ethical Practices

    Tosmerc’s ethical initiatives, such as sourcing materials locally and supporting indigenous craftspeople, are in line with the rising demand for sustainable fashion. However, there is opportunity for improvement in transparency. Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about the environmental effect of their purchases, and Tosmerc might benefit from offering more information about its manufacturing processes and waste minimisation. By implementing more sustainable practices and properly articulating these efforts, the business might increase its appeal to environmentally sensitive customers.

    Digital Presence and Market Strategy

    Tosmerc Clothings has used social media efficiently to expand their consumer base, notably through channels such as Instagram. To have a better worldwide presence, the company must strengthen its digital approach. A more integrated worldwide marketing effort, including targeted outreach and alliances, would aid the brand’s expansion into new areas. Tosmerc’s growth into the UK is a welcome move, but in order to compete worldwide, the company must focus on developing its brand identity through consistent and interesting digital content.

    Conclusion

    Tosmerc Clothing is a promising company with a strong African background and a commitment to quality and ethical practices. To succeed on a global scale, it must develop its designs and improve sustainability transparency. Tosmerc can establish itself as an African fashion leader and have a long-term worldwide influence by blending heritage and modernity and developing its global approach.

  • 4th international furniture, home textile, household exhibition holds in Lagos

    4th international furniture, home textile, household exhibition holds in Lagos

    The vibrant city of Lagos is set to host a spectacular showcase of creativity and innovation with the 4th edition of Nigeria DecorExpo. 

    Scheduled for November 20- 22 at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, this event promises an enriching experience for all involved in the world of interior design and home furnishings. 

    Nigeria DecorExpo has emerged as the nation’s premier exhibition dedicated to furniture, décor, and interior design. 

    This year, the Landmark Centre will serve as a dynamic venue, transforming into a bustling hub where architects, designers, and decor enthusiasts converge. 

    Attendees can expect an immersive experience filled with inspiration and fresh ideas that cater to both office and home environments.

    Over the three days, participants will have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, discover high-end products, and explore the latest trends that redefine spaces. 

    With over 100 brands from more than six countries participating, the event will showcase a dazzling array of products that include furniture, lighting solutions, accessories, wall art, home textiles, and innovative smart home technologies.

    One of the highlights of Nigeria DecorExpo 2024 is its commitment to education and engagement. Attendees can look forward to interactive workshops and informative panel discussions led by top experts in the field. 

    These sessions will delve into various topics, ranging from cutting-edge technology in interior design to sustainable methods of decoration. Such insights are invaluable for anyone looking to update their living or working spaces or simply seeking inspiration for their next design project.

    A statement by the organisers explained: “Nigeria DecorExpo 2024 promises to be a rewarding experience for everyone. 

    ”Whether you are a seasoned professional looking to expand your network, a homeowner eager to remodel, or simply someone who loves design, there will be something for you at this exhibition. Visitors will leave not just with new products but also with unique perspectives on how to approach their own spaces creatively.”

     ATLM Expo boasts a rich history of hosting exhibitions across more than 35 countries since 1997.

    Its expertise extends across various sectors, including construction, real estate, food, cosmetics and decoration. 

  • We plan diversifying our offerings in US, says Taryor Gabriels

    We plan diversifying our offerings in US, says Taryor Gabriels

    Top Nigerian clothing brand, Taryor Gabriels has said it intends to diversify its offering in the Unted States of America where it has expanded its operation some months ago without altering the core values of the brand. The founder of the bespoke fashion brand made it known to our reporter in a chat via the WhatsApp platform recently.

    According to Adetayo Adeyeye, the Founder and Creative Director of the brand, “Whilst we maintain our core identity of luxury bespoke tailoring, we plan on diversifying our offerings in terms of style, designs and values.”

     He added, “We will offer a wider variety of garments introducing different price points and adapting to local market preferences. Diversification paired with Taryor Gabriels unique African influence and superior craftsmanship, this we believe will help the brand establish itself in the competitive U.S fashion industry.”

    On the question of whether they would be adding an African or Nigerian dimension to their identity to distinguish itself and appeal to the Americans as a newcomer on the fashion scene. Adeyeye said their plan is to strike the right balance between the two markets

    “There’s a growing demand for African-inspired fashion globally. For the diaspora, we plan to lean into the brand’s Nigerian roots with bold designs and cultural references and the broader market, create subtle contemporary integrations that highlight African craftsmanship without overwhelming the design,” he said.

    With its U.S. launch, Taryor Gabriels says it is focused on catering to discerning clients who value quality, attention to detail, and the personalized experience of bespoke fashion. 

    The brand also reveals that its debut collection in the U.S. will showcase a range of bespoke suits, formal evening wears, and casual luxury pieces, each crafted using the finest materials and tailored to perfection, adding that the design ethos is rooted in a fusion of classic silhouettes with contemporary twists, ensuring that every piece reflects the unique personality of the wearer.

    To mark the occasion, Taryor Gabriels will host exclusive launch events in major U.S. cities, starting in Houston, where the brand’s attention to tailored precision will be introduced to a diverse and style-conscious audience. The events will offer fashion connoisseurs an intimate look at the creative process behind each garment and provide opportunities for personalized consultations with the brand’s expert tailors.

    Taryor Gabriels has proven its mettle as a top notch clothing brand. Little wonder even the upper crust of the Nigerian high society has endorsed the brand 

    It has been recognised for crafting bespoke pieces for high-profile individuals. Elite clients including but not limited to: Fmr. President of Ghana- J.D Mahama, Ondo State Governor (Nigeria).- Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Akwa Ibom state Governor (Nigeria)- Gov. Umo Bassey, Cross River State Governor – Bassey Otu, Senator David Umahi- Minister for work (Nigeria), Chief Executive Financial Reporting Council – Dr. Rabiu Olowo MD Phillips Consulting – Mr Folusho Phillips; artistes and actors including but not limited to: DAVIDO, Burna Boy, Richard Mofe Damijo, Ayo Makun, Adedimeji Lateef, Ric Hassani and a host of other celebrities.

  • Beauty industry holds conference

    Beauty industry holds conference

    Factors that will boost Nigeria’s booming beauty industry will be the kernel of discussion as the Beauty West Africa Conference berths in Lagos.

    According to its organisers, issues bordering on the importance of developing industry standards with public-private collaboration, accessing funding for beauty, Small Medium Enterprises,  trends as well as opportunities in the hair and beauty sector will also be on the burner as the conference  opens  November 26, 2024.

    Other topics for discussion, its organisers say  will include skin tone and hyperpigmentation, and biotech innovations in cosmetic formulations.

    Beauty West Africa is the leading trade event promoting beauty, cosmetics and grooming in Nigeria and West Africa.

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    Nigeria’s beauty and personal care market has been forecast to approach ₦16 trillion  in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 12.11 per cent  between 2024-2029

    Running alongside the Beauty West Africa Exhibition at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos is a  number of leading beauticians, cosmetic scientists and cosmetics business owners sharing their experiences based on working in the local and international beauty industry.

    The programme has been developed with the industry expertise of Ezinne Alfa, the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of BeautyInLagos  who has been working alongside BtoB Events, the exhibition organiser.

    “Beauty West Africa has consistently provided an unparalleled platform for the African beauty industry to connect, innovate, and grow,” said Ms Alfa. “Discussions at last year’s conference directly contributed to the formation of the National Technical Committee on Beauty Care & Wellbeing Services (NTCBCWS) by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), tasked with developing standards for the Nigerian beauty industry.

     This demonstrates the real impact of the conversations and collaborations that take place here. As the official conference partner, BeautyInLagos is excited to foster more transformative dialogue and innovation at this year’s event, empowering beauty professionals to drive meaningful change across the continent.

    This year’s conference is hosting the inaugural Beauty Stakeholder Engagement Forum, convened by the newly formed National Technical Committee on Beautycare and Wellbeing Services.

    Among the other speakers are broadcast media professional Lamide Akintobi, Bolanle Tyson who is Head of SME Products at Sterling Bank, Lilian Arigbodi, the Founder & MD of Lilian Collins Ltd, and Vanessa Azar, Beauty Executive at Azar Limited.

    The hairstyling and barber workshops on November 28th are being provided by Wahl, the leading international brand of hair clippers for professional and home grooming.

     The live demonstrations will be taught by renowned educators as part of a global education program “which provides barbers, hairdressers and customers with the fundamental support and quality of training required to succeed in the industry.”

    Wahl is inviting participants to: “Stay ahead of the curve with the latest techniques and trends in the industry. Take a step closer to master and become part of our exclusive community of passionate leaders. The sessions provide a fantastic opportunity to use over 100 years of knowledge and experience from the Wahl Artistic Team members, ensuring you leave confident with cutting edge techniques.”

  • Lagos Fashion Week, The Bicester collection convene roundtable with designers, global platforms

    Lagos Fashion Week, The Bicester collection convene roundtable with designers, global platforms

    Lagos Fashion Week has partnered with The Bicester Collection to host a roundtable discussion to propel the fashion industry in Nigeria and Africa to greater heights.

    Titled ‘The Fabric of Change’, the event attracted key industry voices to explore the intersection of fashion, culture and sustainability, with a particular focus on how these elements are a driving force for transformation within the African fashion industry.

    In partnership with The Bicester Collection, a global family of 12 luxury shopping destinations with more than 20 years pedigree of supporting emerging talent, the coalition aim to continue its mission of empowering the next generation of African designers through mentorship programmes and retail opportunities.

    One of the goals is to showcase works by the African designers to a wider audience across the collection’s portfolio of Villages in Europe, China and North America.

    The roundtable continues The Bicester Collection’s six-year partnership with Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, contextualising both entities’ commitment to championing talent and delivering positive socio-economic and environmental impact. Tamu McPherson, the organisation’s Diversity & Inclusion Ambassador, took part in the engaging conversations.

    ‘The Fabric of Change’ highlighted how initiatives such as the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards have offered a platform for African designers and explored the impact on previous winners, such as Ahluwalia, who scooped The Bicester Collection Award for Emerging Designers 2023 and NKWO, who won a year before.

    It also explored how partnerships with luxury destinations can be scaled to foster economic growth and sustainable development in the African fashion industry, focusing on actionable strategies, broadening market access and amplifying the visibility of African craftsmanship globally.

    The winners, along with finalists including Made for a Woman and Torlowei, the brands have all participated in The Creative Spot, a pop-up boutique that was first launched in 2016 at Fidenza Village near Milan, one of the Villages in The Bicester Collection.

    The pop-up gives emerging designers the opportunity to sell their work among the curated portfolio of the world’s most renowned fashion and lifestyle brands that are present across the Collection.

    Since its launch, The Creative Spot has also opened at Bicester Village near London, Maasmechelen Village near Brussels, La Roca Village near Barcelona and Wertheim Village near Frankfurt, and the boutique is currently present at Shanghai Village in China.

    Speaking ahead of the event, Laurent Vinay, Chief Brand and International Communications Officer at The Bicester Collection, said: “Our collaboration with Lagos Fashion Week and Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting emerging talent and fostering cultural exchange. We look forward to engaging with designers and gaining insights from these vital discussions.”

    Also speaking, Tamu McPherson, CNMI Diversity & Inclusion Ambassador, stated: “I am so thrilled to return to Lagos Fashion Week, this time invited by Bicester Collection as CNMI ambassador representing their partnership, to create a platform that highlights the African fashion industry’s journey in further elevating the continent’s rich cultures, influential fashion and inherently sustainable traditions.

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    The Bicester Collection has been supporting emerging talents with initiatives like The Creative Spot – it offers an incredible platform for emerging talents. The specially designed retail space at Fidenza Village, along with the incredible media coverage and the curated launch events really highlighted the collections of featured brands like Ahluwalia. Such exposure and financial support enable brands to reach a larger customer bases as well as gain valuable retail business insight.”

    “This partnership with The Bicester Collection represents a shared vision to create meaningful market opportunities for African designers. As a global shopping destination that welcomes people from across the world to discover new brands, The Bicester Collection is perfectly positioned to help us establish a new narrative for African fashion – one that celebrates creativity, embraces sustainability, and nurtures emerging talent for the future,” Omoyemi Akerele, founder of Style House Files & Lagos Fashion Week, added.

    Commenting, Priya Ahluwalia, founder of Ahluwalia, the 2023 Winner of The Bicester Collection Award at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards, enthused: “Winning The Bicester Collection Award at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just an accolade; it’s a symbol of the opportunities that exist for designers committed to making a positive impact. We’re incredibly grateful to The Bicester Collection team for their continued support.”

  • Big Lin aims to take Sir Lin Derachi global

    Big Lin aims to take Sir Lin Derachi global

    Driven by sheer determination, Daniel Kalu Ibe, known as Big Lin, is setting his sights on making Sir Lin Derachi, his clothing brand, a globally recognized name.

    Big Lin, the astute entrepreneur behind the fashion label, envisions it as a brand beloved worldwide. 

    He said: “I see my clothing brand being one of the most loved, valued, and talked-about brands in the world.

    “In years to come, it will have stores open globally. That is my dream, and I see it coming to pass.”

    Reflecting on his journey, Big Lin explained how he initially started in 2020 by showcasing his creations to a small circle of friends. 

    “I launched my brand in 2020, initially introducing it to a few friends. Before that, I worked as a shoemaker, specializing in female footwear since 2016,” he recalled.

    In 2020, he decided to pivot, focusing on men’s footwear, laying the groundwork for what would become Sir Lin Derachi Wears.

    The brand’s expansion continued in 2022, as Big Lin introduced a broader range of products, including Senator wear, shirts, trousers, polos, jeans, and caps. 

    However, the shift from commercial shoemaking to branded production came with its own set of hurdles. 

    “My branded footwear has a higher quality, which is harder to achieve in smaller quantities,” he noted.

    “Suppliers and machine operators were often reluctant to work with smaller orders, making it difficult to access necessary materials and services.”

    Recalling additional challenges, Big Lin, a native of Abia State, described the setbacks he encountered with unreliable workers and fluctuating costs. 

    “In the clothing line, I faced setbacks with unreliable workers—some took off with payments, while others delivered substandard work, leading to significant losses,” he said. 

    “Additionally, rising material costs created further challenges. Despite these obstacles, I’ve gradually grown the brand.”

    Through resilience and passion, Big Lin is building Sir Lin Derachi toward a future as a respected name in global fashion.

  • Joan Okorodudu gets US presidential lifetime achievement award 

    Joan Okorodudu gets US presidential lifetime achievement award 

    A pioneering figure in Nigeria’s fashion industry and the founder of Isis Models Africa, Joan Okorodudu has been awarded the Lifetime Presidential Award at the Runway International Fashion Awards (RIFAS) held in Baltimore, United States. 

    The award highlights her contributions to the global fashion landscape, where she has played a vital role in elevating African and Nigerian fashion.

    The recognition at RIFAS comes shortly after Isis Models Africa received a notable mention at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

    The modeling agency was praised as one of Africa’s leading talent platforms, empowering young Africans and showcasing their talent on the international stage.

    Isis Models Africa has been instrumental in organizing the annual Africa’s Next Super Model event, a platform that has launched the careers of models who have appeared at global fashion events in cities such as Madrid, Paris, and Milan. 

    The agency’s efforts were highlighted by Sudanese supermodel Nykhor Paul during the UNSTOPPABLE AFRICA event at the Global Africa Business Initiative at UNGA 2024. 

    She commended Isis Models for its consistent role in shaping the continent’s fashion landscape and supporting emerging talents.

    Joan Okorodudu’s consistent dedication over the years has made her a leading figure in showcasing African talent globally. 

    Nykhor Paul, while reflecting on the impact of African fashion, acknowledged Isis Models Africa as a significant contributor to the industry’s growth. 

    “Within the past 10 years, beautiful African models have emerged from countries like South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, and Nigeria,” she stated, urging stakeholders to capitalize on the growing potential of African talent.

    Isis Models Africa expressed gratitude for the recognition through a statement on its social media platform, describing the acknowledgment as a call to action and a roadmap to further investment in Africa’s fashion industry. 

    The statement highlighted the agency’s mission and the significance of being recognized at such a high-profile platform as UNGA 2024.

    Founded in 2017, RIFAS recognizes the achievements of creatives across various sectors of the independent fashion industry, including modeling, fashion design, makeup artistry, hairstyling, and more. 

    Okorodudu’s award further cements her status as a trailblazer in the global fashion industry. 

    With a background that includes a degree from Boston University and a title as a former Miss Nigeria, she has established Africa’s largest model search platform, providing African talents opportunities at major international fashion shows.

    Joan Okorodudu’s efforts extend beyond modeling; she has partnered with international brands like Design Essentials and One Management to promote African beauty and talent on a global scale. 

    These collaborations are part of her Runways to Freedom project, aimed at raising African models’ profiles and expanding opportunities in the global fashion industry.

    This latest recognition is one among many for Okorodudu. In 2017, she was honored with the New African Woman Award in The Arts & Culture category, sharing the spotlight with Amina Mohammed, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General. Such achievements highlight her commitment to promoting African talent through fashion, arts, and culture.

    Isis Models Africa continues to identify, develop, and sustain the careers of African models, operating with a team of scouts and bookers with international expertise under Okorodudu’s leadership.

    The agency remains dedicated to placing African talent on the global stage and driving change in the industry.