Africa Fashion Week 2013 Magazine by Vive Designs

www.africafashionweeklondon.com

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02 issue

AFWL blah blah blah

AFWL supports

Have you seen? NEW loWEr FEES To

aFRICa From

£2.90

THE

AFRICAN ARTS & FASHION INITIATIVE

This African Arts and Fashion Initiative empowers young people across the creative industry through its workshops and training. The Initiative raises essential funds to support emerging talent and the tuition fees for extremely talented designers. The Initiative provides financial, professional and hands-on support for upand-coming designers to ensure their first steps into the fashion industry is a postitive one and encouages creative individuals to turn their talent into a well-known fashion brand. (Africa Fashion Week London, July 2013)

presents

* THE

AFRICAN ARTS & FASHION BANQUET SUNDAY 04 AUGUST 2013

FAST

RELIABLE

ConvEnIEnT

More price reductions available at your agent location! Visit us for more information or call 0800 833 833 * Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. £2.90 transfer fee is for sending up to £100 with our Next Day service. Funds may be delayed or services unavailable based on certain transaction conditions, including amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory issues, identification requirements, Agent location differences timeLONDON zones, or selection of delayed options. New fees as of May 22, 2013. AFRICA FASHION in WEEK 2 hours, Authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for the conduct of payment services business in the UK.

at PARK LANE, LONDON, W1K 1QA

An evening of celebration and fundraising in support of The African Arts & Fashion Initiative’s inauguration

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL team

Meet the

COVER CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHY NIA ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY HEADWRAP KIYANA WRAPS DRESS MIA BY MIA NISBET MODEL REGINA MANNEH (THE Face of Africa Fashion Week London 2013) STYLING JOSETTE M. KAHOZI ASSISTANT STYLIST JOCELYN OSEI MAKE UP GISELLE ALI HAIR BY CHARMAINE HAUGHTON & YEMI MILES MIZANI TEAM, L’OREAL

Welcome to

Africa Fashion Week London 2013

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

Dear Guests

ELVIS UDEGBE

It is with great joy that I welcome you to the

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

third edition of Africa Fashion Week London

SINEM-BILEN ONABANJO

(AFWL), a project born out of passion and a

ART DIRECTION & DESIGN

desire for positive change. We started out in

JOANNE OMIGIE @ OMIGIE DESIGN

2011 with a guest turn out of 4000 at Gibson Hall, Bishopsgate and in 2012, recorded an attendance of 20,000 at New Spitalfields for our second edition held during the Olympics. This third edition, takes the event to a larger stage at The Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane. With a strong following, AFWL forecasts a turn out of 25,000. The first two editions of this event have event featured 150 designers, and this year, we are presenting 100 designers across the three day show which combines catwalk shows and fashion exhibitions. For the first time we also present the African Arts and Fashion Initiative Banquet at The Dorchester on 4 August. The event will raise funds in support young people across the creative industry. Sponsoring seminars and workshops, the event will provide start-up funds and tuition fees with the aim to help young talents achieve sustainability through their skills and creativity. AFWL welcomes to the Board of Trustees, life

africafwl

www.africafashionweeklondon.com

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL provides a platform for establishing, promoting, encouraging and celebrating emerging African inspired designers. We display contemporary African fashion to the world. We prioritise both young and emerging designers, as well as established designers, showing them to a global audience which includes various media houses, fashion buyers and the general public, thereby helping them achieve maximum publicity, develop clientele, and quickly carve an economic self sustenance niche for themselves, on the competitive international sphere. As a further development of AFWL, we are also introducing Studio 29 to the event. Our very own concession store, catwalk show apparels will be available for sale enabling designers and their work exposure to high-profile clientele.

JOSETTE M KAHOZI AFWL Co-Founder & General Operations Co-founder of Africa Fashion Week London, Josette is a fashion designer and stylist with a wide range of career experience. As a graduate of the London College of Fashion, she has worked as a sales consultant for some of the UK’s largest department stores. She joined Ronke Ademiluyi in 2011 to found Africa Fashion Week London. Josette’s hands-on approach and clear focus have been instrumental in making AFWL the biggest African fashion-inspired event in Europe. JOANNE CHEW AFWL Exhibition Manager Joanne has been a part of the AFWL Team for two years and with each year is dedicated to making the London fashion

event even bigger and better. Working on high-profile fashion events for the past four years, she thoroughly enjoys meeting new people and helping upand-coming designers gain exposure in the fashion world. RUTH OMISORE AFWL Director of Event Design and Coordination Responsible for event interior and management, Ruth has a wealth of experience managing high-profile VIP events. With a great flair for fashion and events planning, Ruth is on board to deliver sparkle and opulence to AFWL 2013. JOANNE OMIGIE AFWL Creative Designer As a graduate from The London College of Printing, Joanne has subsequently gained over 10 years’ experience in the creative design industry.

As Creative Director of Omigie Design, a young and thriving graphic design agency, 2013 is an exciting year and sees the agency come on board with the AFWL Team to pioneer the refreshed, cutting-edge identity to this year’s event.

TITILAYO ABIODUN AFWL Hospitality Manager With an upbeat temperament and ‘all hands on deck’ approach to work, Titilayo is a reassuring figure on the AFWL Team. OLUSEUN JOSEPH OLORUNTOWOJU AFWL Legal practitioner Oluseun recently came on board and his dedication to work, and love for the promotion of the African culture is what drives his zeal towards pursuing the vision of AFWL.

With all gratitude to the Almighty and with full appreciation of your support, we welcome you to join us on our journey through AFWL 2013.

patrons, architect and philantrophist Princess Fifi Ejindu and renowned artist of Nigerian descent, Yinka Shonibare MBE. Also welcome are new ambassadors, Noëlla Coursaris

Musunka, Shinghai Shoniwa, Menaye Donkor and our Goodwill Ambassador Abiola Okoya. Nigeria’s premier GSM telephone services provider, Globacom is proud to be official telecom sponsor AFWL 2013.

AFWL Team

Yours truly, Ronke Ademiluyi, AFWL Founder

(top to bottom) Josette M. Kahozi, Joanne Chew, Ruth Omisore, Joanne Omigie, Titilayo Abiodun, Oluseun Joseph

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INTRODUCING SHINGAI SHINGAI SHONIWA SHONIWA INTRODUCING MIZANIUK UKAMBASSADOR AMBASSADOR MIZANI 6

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

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AFWL Head of Publicity, SINEM BILEN-ONABANJO sits down for an inspirational chat with AFWL Life Patron, PRINCESS FIFI EJINDU...

A Patroness with Style and

Substance Words: SINEM BILEN-ONABANJO Photos: TY BELLO

AFWL: Who in your own words is Fifi Ekanem Ejindu? PFE: A woman who has done things her own way, standing completely and absolutely by what I deem the truth and all the values I believe in. If you cannot stand for something then you will fall for anything. Maybe an extremist because with me, there’s no grey, its either black or white. I know exactly what I want and what I definitely do not want. I also have a mind that is always creating both the possible and what others might think is impossible. Yes I am an incurable optimist. Oh yes, everyone occasionally deserves a pity party, but you must learn to pick up the pieces, wipe your tears, say a little prayer, smile and carry on. AFWL: You were quoted in an interview with Ovation as “the second child born with a platinum spoon.” Do tell us more. PFE: You see, I have one sister and she is almost eight years older so I was really celebrated when I finally arrived. I was definitely a daddy’s girl. My father was a great intellectual and politician who was the first Minister of Health in the eastern region. He was also in the House of Parliament as it was called then. After politics, he moved on to become one of the first indigenous lecturers at the University of Ibadan after studying at the Trinity College, Dublin and Ivy League Brown University, Rhode Island, USA.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL

In Nigeria, the creative industry is a gold mine waiting to be tapped but has long been sacrificed on the altar of oil and gas. My mother was a quintessential Efik Princess, a glamour queen and one of the most sophisticated women I have ever known. She studied at Leeds University in the UK. I had the great fortune of having been brought up by these two remarkable people. AFWL: How was the experience of attending Pratt Institute and Massachusetts Institute of Technology and then once again Pratt for your Masters degree? PFE: When I attended Pratt, it was one of the first five architectural schools in the world. At the time, there were very few women and only two African women in the school of Architecture. First, you are a woman, and you are black, and then you are a foreigner with a funny name. All the odds were stacked against you so you had to work extra hard to prove you could do it. That was a very important stage in my life because I learned that it was possible to compete with anyone from any part of the world, one on one, and win. A day before my 21st birthday after four and a half years of very many sleepless nights, I made history as the first African Woman to graduate from the Pratt Institute School of Architecture. AFWL: At your 50th birthday you announced your decision to turn “success into significance”. What led you to take this decision? PFE: When I turned 50, I was so overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and affection that I was convinced that true fulfillment comes from putting most of one’s energy into working for humanity. You see, even if I live to be 100 years old, I have lived more years than I have left to live, so one has to live with the end in mind. At 50 I started to ask myself, “What do I really want to be remembered for? What are the things I must do to leave the world a better place than I met it?” I began to seek answers to these questions and the answers informed my decision. AFWL: Please do tell us more about The Hope Centres. What is the idea behind them and how will they operate? PFE: The Hope Centres comprise of skills acquisition centres and small diagnostic centres. The idea is to get the youths off street so they can acquire some skills with which they can sustain themselves. The small diagnostics centres will use telecommunication and information technologies to provide health care even when there is no hospital nearby. Many have lost their lives in Africa due to wrong or late diagnosis. Telemedicine eliminates distance and provides access to medical services in distant rural communities.

AFWL: Tell us more about your label, Fifi Collection. PFE: Fifi Collection was created specifically to fund my foundation and unveiled during my 50th birthday celebrations in Dubai. This is a collection of indigenous fabrics that have been embellished and enhanced to create the ankra luxury lace. I have been working with a young talented fashion designer, Adoley Addo of Jil Designs in Ghana to create three different collections every year – an Easter collection, a summer collection and a Christmas collection. Our summer collection this year will be shown at the African Arts and Fashion Banquet. For the very first time, we have created the luxury silk ankara. AFWL: Why did you decide to support African Fashion Week London with the exclusive African Arts and Fashion banquet? PFE: As an architect, I am passionate about motivating, sensitising, empowering and showcasing upcoming and established designers and artists. The time has come for Africans to take their destiny in their own hands. Africa’s future is up to Africans. Africa Fashion Week London and the African Arts and Fashion Banquet offer a great platform to showcase Africa’s enormously talented youths. By supporting and promoting

such global exhibitions we shall create opportunities to foster partnerships with business communities of developed nations. We will also highlight our rich cultural heritage, harnessing out cultural resources and industry to grow a vibrant economy. Supporting these designers, artists, sculptors shall boost small and medium enterprises that will create jobs, generate wealth and eradicate poverty in Africa. The banquet is actually in support of the first African Arts and Fashion Initiative amongst other charities that will support exceptionally talented student designers and artists along with emerging designers and artists. We shall also recognise those who have contributed immensely to youth and women empowerment programmes and to the growth of the creative industry in Africa and it will also emphasise that the time has come for the much awaited African arts and style renaissance.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL blah blah blah

Enter

Studio 29 With two stores in Lagos, and a third due to be launched in London, Studio 29 is firmly positioning itself as the landmark fashion outlet for exclusive African fashion.

ith celebrities, fashion personalities and the press in attendance, Studio 29 first opened its doors to the public in Lagos back in April 2013. An extension of the AFWL brand, this first concession store was launched in response to the demand for a boutique stocking the collections that have graced the runways of AFWL since itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first event in 2011. With two successful stores in Lagos, 2013 sees the exciting expansion of Studio 29, as a third store is scheduled to open in the heart of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shopping district. The store will stock an array of African attire from casualwear to eveningwear, widening the exposure and accessibility of African fashion to the masses. Recognising a gap in the market, Studio 29 is not only a sophisticated retail space, it is also a first-class shopping experience with a customerfocused service. The contemporary interior also makes Studio 29 a perfect location for hosting fashion parties, showcases and media launches

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL Ambassador

AFWL charity

Classic and alluring, Congolese born supermodel, philanthropist and social welfare activist, Noëlla Coursaris Musunka is one of this year’s AFWL Ambassadors.

Noëlla Words: SINEM BILEN-ONABANJO

his year, AFWL is proud to present Noëlla Coursaris Musunka as an ambassador. An internationally renowned model, born in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and raised in Belgium and Switzerland, Noëlla has graced the pages of Vanity Fair, Arena Magazine, New African Woman and Arise Magazine, to name but a few. In this issue, AFWL Magazine discusses why she believes that the greatest gift Africans in Diaspora can give to the African continent is the power of education. AFWL: What contributions do you think young Africans in the Diaspora should make to the development of the African homeland? It is the same goal we all strive for: holistic development of Africa. Young Africans should contribute what they feel they can, if they choose to. The key is to empower the local population with sustainable skills they can utilise to develop themselves. The best gift that we can give back is the power of education. AFWL: Many young Africans face double identity challenges: finding a social base in the Diaspora and finding acceptability and assimilation at home; how have you been able to cope with that? INCM: In today’s global world, you have to be open to other cultures because they all have something great to provide. Even though I grew up and was educated in Europe, I still had a love for the Congo. In embracing my Congolese culture and sharing it with others, I have made great friends all over the world and still feel a connection to the DRC. I also still have a connection with Belgium and Switzerland where I grew up, as well as Cyprus, which is part of my father’s heritage. AFWL: What inspired you to found the Georges Malaika Foundation?

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

NCM: As a child, my mother was able to send me to Europe after the unfortunate passing of my father. I received educational opportunities there that I would not have otherwise had. I want to give back to my community the same opportunities and grant them a chance at a bright future through quality education. AFWL: Does being a model offer opportunities towards your charity efforts? NCM: I am able to collaborate with many people in the industry to raise awareness of what the Georges Malaika Foundation seeks to accomplish. My experience also allows me to use fashion for philanthropy – utilising the fashion industry to not only display and promote African designers, but also to raise funds and awareness for the Georges Malaika Foundation. AFWL: What projects are you currently working on? NCM: Our main project is the opening of a community centre in Kalebuka in collaboration with FIFA. 300m from our school for 180 students, it will provide sport and health education for the community. With the Vinmart Foundation and Solution for Africa, we have provided an onsite fresh water well. We are also in the final phase of constructing 3 more classrooms for our girls, as 30 more are enrolling for the next academic school year.

THE AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON CHOSEN CHARITY FOR THE 2013 IS THE GEORGES MALAIKA FOUNDATION. The Georges Malaika Foundation (GMF) was founded by Noëlla Coursaris Musunka in 2007 in commemoration of her father. Referencing the Swahili meaning for angel, ‘Malaika’, the foundation strives to empower young Congolese women and their communities to rise above their struggles and make a positive contribution to their society through education, making them change agents in their various locales and for their environments. The Georges Malaika Foundation built and operates the Georges Malaika School for Girls, a tuitionfree accredited school educating girls in the village of Kalebuka, near Lubumbashi in the southeastern region of the Democratic Republic

of Congo (DRC). In addition to education, the pupils receive two meals each day, english classes, essential vaccinations and engage in sports activities twice a week. In September 2013 the school will enrol 182 girls. A collaborative effort with the Voss Foundation, has led to the construction of three wells. One on the school grounds, another for the village of Kalebuka, and one at the Football for Hope Centre. In combination, the three wells impacts more than 8000 people a year. The Georges Malaika Foundation is very proud and excited to introduce FIFA as the latest partner in the GMF network. Through the Football for Hope programme, an

initiative of FIFA’s implementing partner ‘StreetFootballWorld’ , GMF will incorporate sports facilities near the school grounds and an integrated coed sports programme to encourage community participation. The Football for Hope Centre in Kalebuka will be based on improving public health, education, and life skills for the entire community. The center is currently under construction with the official opening scheduled for August 2013. GMF works actively with the local community and other organizations on the ground in the DRC. With the exception of the locally hired teachers and support staff, GMF is wholly supported by unpaid experts and volunteers. In addition to its own projects, GMF plays an integral part in bringing other non-government organisations to the Katanga Province. GMF, with Project CURE, successfully brought 12 containers contisting of medical health supplies worth more than $6 million to the region’s hospitals. Most recently, GMF participated in the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting 2012 where founder, Noëlla Coursaris Musunka addressed former President of the United States, Bill Clinton during the Opening Plenary with a statement of the GMF’s commitment. The Foundation has also received honors from Russell Simmons Foundation at the Diamond Empowerment Fund’s GOOD Awards.

AFWL: What do you see in the future for African models working on the international scene? NCM: As Africa becomes more developed and able to focus more on fashion, I would love to see African cities as hubs for fashion. African fashion is diverse, aesthetically beautiful and culturally rich. We as Africans have so much to contribute to the fashion world and I would love to see the hard work of fellow Africans pay off greatly. It is important to sustainably develop Africa and as more women have access to education and different opportunities, we will see many more successful African models.

Kalebuka Football for Hope Centre

AFWL: It’s been said that African fashion is ‘fashion of the future’, what are your thoughts on this? NCM: As Africa becomes increasingly developed, more talents will emerge. We have so much to offer to the world, in fashion but also in technology, academia, business, social development. We as Africans will contribute great things to every aspect of the world in the near future.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL highlights

Highlights

AFWL

– GIBSON HALL, LONDON –

– SPITALFIELDS, LONDON –

2011

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

2012

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL highlights

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Highlights

AFWL

2012

INTRODUCING

PERFECT FINISH® ILLUMINATING POWDERS

– SPITALFIELDS, LONDON –

Models are wearing: Earth Perfect Finish Illuminating Powder and Forever Gold Lipstick.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

Four tantalizing satin finish powders Inspired by the elements to capture and reflect light for perfect sun kissed skin.

All we do is think about you! Available at select department stores and www.fashionfair.com AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL Goodwill Ambassador

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Biola

Alabi The fashionable star of modern African business

Named among The World Economic Forum’s ‘Young Global Leaders for 2012’ and listed in Forbes ‘20 Youngest Power Women in Africa’, Biola Alabi is Nigerian in nationality, African in outlook and global in experience Managing Director of M-Net in Africa, Biola Alabi has spent the last four years helming M-Net’s increasing portfolio on the continent, most notably expanding and enhancing the range of Africa Magic channels available to audiences in sub-Saharan Africa. In this chat with AFWL MAGAZINE, she reveals why African women have to face up to the challenges within fashion and transform their hopes and desires into reality. AFWL: It’s a pleasure to be in conversation with you today. Many people might be unaware that in your former years, you worked on the infamous childrens’ show, Sesame Street. What did your role entail? BA: I was working for a company called

Sesame Workshop that produces Sesame Street. I was with them in New York in charge of their international businesses. My job entailed interaction with companies and different brands throughout Africa. AFWL: You have an impressive career spectrum, what would you say is your favourite part? BA: I am lucky enough to work with a range

of people across a wide field – from business people charting a course for companies to creative individuals telling Africa’s stories, to dynamic young people innovating new ways of communicating. The chance to engage with people who are different yet equally motivated, who can help me to learn and grow, who I can also help and assist, it’s quite incredible to have these opportunities daily. AFWL: How does it feel being honoured among the Young Global Leaders by the World Economic Forum (WEF)? BA: It’s a privilege to be included by the WEF

and a great motivator for me to try and be better, do better, and to develop everyday!

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL: Your life is a great source of inspiration to many young African women, but where do you draw your own inspiration from? BA: The fact that women across the

continent are so dynamic, and increasingly make themselves heard and their presence felt, I think female leadership in Africa is significantly changing the continent and the future. AFWL: How do you think the fashion industry can be a tool for the economic emancipation of women? BA: I think this is an industry that offers

opportunities for designers, models, seamstresses, fabric specialists etc. I do think there is a misconception that fashion is only about creativity, but to be involved in the industry you need to be a dynamic marketer, a savvy businessperson, a strategic thinker. It’s not just pretty clothes; it’s about reading hopes, aspirations, realities and then translating them to individual expressions. That’s a difficult thing to do. AFWL: What role has the media been playing in the growth of African fashion, especially television? BA: I think projects like Face of Africa

for example, give a platform to designers to showcase their work widely and that’s important. African fashion is a fusion of cultures, people, colors, textures and it will grow if it’s nurtured and allowed to evolve through shared collaborations and ventures. These will only become a reality if media continue to engage with the industry, and take the work to wider audiences. AFWL: What do you hope to achieve for the African movie industry with your recently launched Viewer’s Choice Award?

BA: We want to celebrate our movie talent,

both behind and in front of the camera. Africa’s film and television community is strong, vibrant and very bold and those who have contributed to making it a success must be honored and appreciated. AFWL: How much support are you hoping to get from the movie industry all over Africa? BA: As a business we have been very

fortunate to enjoy loyal, long-term support from the African movie industry and Africa Magic channels as a platform to take all stories to wider audiences. So I am confident that the industry will recognise the awards for what it is – a showcase moment for their work and talent. AFWL: What does fashion mean to you? BA: It’s way to express my individuality and

a tool to help people understand what I am focused on at that time. So professional for meetings; glamorous for entertaining and entertainment events; down to earth for relaxing. AFWL: Who are your favourite designers? BA: I really couldn’t choose. I love so many

designers in Africa and I’ve been so pleased to be able to travel the continent and see so much great fashion. I love Nigerian fashion obviously, but I do enjoy certain international labels as well. I don’t select fashion according to trendy designers though, I feel much happier selecting something that I will be comfortable in so sometimes I will skip a trend if I just don’t think it will work for me specifically. AFWL: What would Biola Alabi never be caught wearing? BA: I don’t wear shorts! It’s very rare for

me wear track pants and trainers outside of the gym.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL Ambassador

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Time out WITH AFWL’S GOODWILL AMBASSADOR

ABIOLA OKOYA

The warm and delectable Abiola Okoya is AFWL’S 2013 Goodwill Ambassador and one of the greatest sources of support and inspiration. In this chat with AFWL MAGAZINE, she opines why Africans must showcase Africa more boldly before global respect can be earned. AFWL: Give us a glimpse into life as a child in the home of Rasak Okoya AO: I am the second eldest child and from my earliest memory I have been involved in running the family’s business. AFWL: As a child, what kind of future did you aspire towards? AO: I imagined a life totally dedicated to being part of the family’s business mainly because of the size of the organisation while doing a bit of my own thing and looking after my children. AFWL: Describe what your professional role. AO: First and foremost, I am a sales person, based on my orientation from Eleganza and of course real estate. I am presently looking at being part of the local content in the oil and gas sector.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL: How do you feel about your appointment as goodwill ambassador at AFWL? AO: Very excited at being branded a fashion ambassador of such an international event and also a pleasure collaborating with the founder, Ronke Ademiluyi and my darling sister, Life Patron, Princess Fifi Ejindu. AFWL: What is your vision for the project? AO: It is an idea whose time has come and I believe it will continue to flourish and gain momentum based on the response it has garnered. AFWL: How do you view the current climate faced by young African designers? AO: Creativity certainly is not lacking, but what is needed is a platform for them

to showcase their talent and funding to nurture it, which I hope AFWL will achieve. AFWL: What do you think Africans in the Diaspora ought to do better? AO: Showcase more of our culture in terms of dressing. We have cold climate dressing in east and southern Africa and soft dressing for hot or warm climate in West Africa. AFWL: Is fashion way of life or just a necessary addition? AO: Fashion for me is personal. It must reflect beauty and elegance while not being too seductive. The primary purpose is to be attractive. AFWL: What would Abiola Okoya never be caught wearing? AO: Anything fake! AFWL: Given the opportunity, what would you do for African fashion today? AO: Just exactly what we are doing with AFWL - exposure at international events so that the designers can gain the confidence necessary to promote their art. They must also be able to gain access to funding. AFWL: What do you love most about being an African? AO: I don’t know whether it is because I am Yoruba or a Nigerian or African, but certainly we are no pushovers and we take pride in our culture. Also from working for my father, he never gave me a task based on my gender so while I am feminine in gender, I’m also resilient and can multi-task very well. The African woman is the protector of the house. AFWL: Tell us one or two things about yourself. AO: I am a go-getter and a very frank and straight forward person. AFWL: What are your future projects? AO: I am hoping to consolidate my various projects, so that I can spend more time with my children. There are growing up and they are getting to a point where they are becoming adults and leaving the nest.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL Ambassador blah blah blah

With the self-discovery of her innate and tremendous abilities as a singer and performer, and as one half of the band Noisettes, Shingai Shoniwa took the indie music scene by storm and never looked back. Africa Fashion Week London celebrates her strong fashion attributes and musical achievements this year as a source of inspiration to emerging talents.

Shingai Shoniwa N

oisettes vocalist and bassist, Shingai Shoniwa, whose name means ‘be strong’ in Shona, was born in 1981 and grew up in South London. At the tender age of 11, the death of her father prompted her to devise a means of escaping reality and elicited her innermost creative abilities. As a teenager, Shingai studied circus skills at a London youth club. With acting aspirations, she then joined the Lost Vagueness Crew as a burlesque performer, followed by a stint of theatre work. But it was at the BRIT School for Performing Arts in London where she teamed up with fellow student and guitarist friend Dan Smith and with an indie rock sound, the Noisettes was born. Commercial success and recognition came from their second album in 2009, where the single “Don’t Upset the Rhythm (Go Baby Go)”, reached number two in the UK Singles Chart. Shingai’s performances have enjoyed critical acclaim, Rolling Stone Magazine described her as “a living, breathing manifestation of the rock & roll spirit, with a voice that is equal parts Iggy Pop and Billie Holiday.” Times Online described the singer as “…the most natural, charismatic frontwoman in British music today, an acrobatic showgirl-cum-disco diva’’, Shingai’s fashion style has gained as much attention as her vocals, often performing on stage bare foot, or wearing face paint or sporting an array of bespoke millinery. Infamous for her captivating style as a performer and flamboyance in fashion, Shingai Shoniwa is an inspirational AFWL 2013 fashion ambassador.

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AFWL Patron

AFWL

Yinka Shonibare, MBE

Regina (right) and Genevieve Nnaji

AFWL: You were born in London and moved to Lagos; that is a reverse case from that of most Nigerians in Diaspora today, how did that happen?

Yinka Shonibare’s Nelson’s Ship in a Bottle piece, the first commission for the Fourth Plinth of Trafalgar Square

Turner Prize nominee (2004) and decorated member of the “Most Excellent Order of the British Empire”, Yinka Shonibare MBE, British trained artist of Nigerian descent, is the Grand Patron of AFWL 2013

inka was born in London and moved to Lagos, Nigeria at the age of three. He returned to London to study Fine Art first at Byam Shaw College of Art (now Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design) and then at Goldsmiths College, where he received his MFA, graduating as part of the ‘Young British Artists’ generation. Over the past decade, Shonibare has become well known for his exploration of colonialism and post-colonialism within the contemporary context of globalisation. Shonibare’s work explores these issues, alongside those of race and class, through the media of painting, sculpture, photography and more recently, film and performance. He has worked with the MCA Sydney, the Brooklyn Museum, New York, and the Museum of African Art in Washington DC. ‘Nelson’s Ship in a Bottle’ is his first public art commission on the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square. In this chat with AFWL MAGAZINE, Yinka explains that opportunities abound for young African and ethnic talent in the Diaspora now, more than when he started out.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

YA: My parents wanted me to be aware of Nigerian culture and language, so they took me back so that I could be educated in my own culture. AFWL: You describe yourself as a ‘post colonial hybrid’, does that give you a different identity from that of young children of African parents born in Diaspora today? YA: I think most people who have to move between cultures share that identity. I would say that the same is true of Italian Americans, for example, or other people who have more than one language. AFWL: What character traits do young people of African origin born in the Diaspora need to get where you are today? YA: The essential ingredients of success are a combination of hard-work and being in the right place at the right time. AFWL: Compare your growth in the post colonial UK to what obtains today, what has changed? YA: Society is more broad-minded, so I assume there are more opportunities for artists of African origin, than when I first started out. AFWL: Where does the international scene place African creativity today? YA: African Contemporary Art is becoming bigger internationally. Just recently an artist from Angola, Edson Chagas, won the Golden Lion in Venice. Also the Tate Modern has an African Curator and also an African acquisitions committee. AFWL: What opportunities and possible niches are available to young African

Inspiring diaspora African women in business

Openness to learning and knowledge is absolutely vital artists, designers and talent workers in the international front today? YA: Colleges are more open to international students and Museums and galleries are much more inclusive than they used to be. AFWL: What do you think young Africans in the Diaspora are doing right? Where do you think they should put more efforts? YA: I’ve found that openness to learning and knowledge is absolutely vital. The more young people can educate themselves, the easier things will be for them. That work includes going to museums, looking at works, reading books etc. AFWL: Your works include a lot of Ankara fabrics, does that give you a kindred spirit with Africa Fashion Week London? YA: The fabric I use is a signifier of Africa so I guess there is communality there. I do use fashion a lot in my work as well. AFWL: What passions drive you to support AFWL? YA: I think that what Africa Fashion Week London is trying to do is great because they are trying to support young fashion designers out of Africa and trying to make them more visible on the international scene

REGINA JANE JERE-MALANDA

er demeanour exudes calm. An ambience of serenity surrounds her. This is Regina Jane Jere-Malanda, Editor of New Africa Woman and astute woman in media, one of London’s most reputable female journalists of African origin. With her quiet efficiency, she pilots the affairs of New African Woman Magazine, a colourful lifestyle magazine dedicated to providing in-depth coverage of fashion and beauty, health and wellbeing, parenting, family and much more, from the viewpoint of African women living in the Europe. Presenting ethnic women with editorial content that is sympathetic to their situation, the magazine utilises an indigenous twist to offer an insight into their lives in an intelligent, meaningful and inspirational manner. Born in Zambia, with an African-

Avid supporter of African Fashion Week London and editor of New African Woman, Zambian born Regina Jane Jere-Malanda is a beacon of inspiration for African women worldwide in the corporate business. European- American education, Regina has over twenty years of journalism experience under her belt with a resume that includes Zambian correspondent for Agence France Press, Africa researcher at Index on Censorship. She writes extensively on a wide-range of issues, covering politics, fashion and beauty, women’s rights to media freedom and free speech with a portfolio of published work including The Mission: Journalism, Ethics and the World (Iowa State University). Pivotal to her work is an interest in the empowerment of women and she believes education and health are the cornerstone to this. Nominated for Zambia Journalist of the Year Award (Media Category), Regina has championed AFWL from the very first edition in 2011. In her characteristically strong passion for betterment of African women, she saw AFWL immediately as a platform with a vision akin to her dreams and from day one she formed a compendium of strategies for synergies between the related platforms of New Africa Woman and Africa Fashion

Week London. An instrumental figure, Regina has been a part of the success of the event and is somewhat responsible for AFWL being the biggest African inspired fashion event in Europe. Regina’s open and frank tone in her editorials make her a darling of the embattled African woman of the Diaspora in business. A reference point for the values of hard work and integrity, Regina has published a vast number of successful women across the African arts, business and entertainment industries, such as Genevieve Nnaji, onetime covergirl for New African Woman. Yet, her true vocation is in promoting young and undiscovered talent in fashion, art and business, among African women. Over the 3 day event, AFWL and Regina look forward to showcasing this year’s fashion hottest talent.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL blah blah blah

THE FACE OF

The Face of Africa Fashion Week London 2013 emerges AFWL 2013’s organisers were delighted to announce Gambian/ Senegalese model, Regina Manneh as the winner of the Face of AFWL 2013 competition. Seeing off fierce competition from hundreds of entries, AFWL Magazine covergirl Regina said “I am happy to be part of the young aspiring African models to make a breakthrough in the industry’.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

Raised in Denmark, Sweden, and the Ivory Coast, the now UK-based 24-year-old model and interior design student is fluent in English, French, Danish, Swedish and Senegal’s Wolof language. Modelling since 2009, Regina has walked at Los Angeles Fashion Week and Dubai Fashion Week, and grace the AFWL catwalk over the 3 day event at the Old Truman Brewery.

this page DRESS, MIA BY MIA NISBET opposite DRESS, CLISHA

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

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left DRESS, EKI ORLEANS

top right DRESS, TINA LOBONDI

bottom right DRESS, CLISHA

HEAD WRAP, KIYANA WRAPS DRESS, MIA BY MIA NISBET

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PHOTOGRAPHER, NIA ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY STYLIST, JOSETTE M. KAHOZI ASSISTANT STYLIST, JOCELYN OSEI HAIR, CHARMAINE HAUGHTON & YEMI MILES @MIZANI, L’OREAL MAKEUP, GISELLE ALI MODEL, REGINA MANNEH

AFWL Ambassador

MENAYE DONKOR | | |

giving value to

MODEL

n o i h s a F n a Afric AFRICAN FASHION IS THE

London 1, African Fashion Week stablished in August 201 hion fas d pire ins n ica big gest Afr (AFWL) has become the d over ase wc sho has L AFW rs, t two yea festival in Europe. In jus 000 25, r ove igners to an audience of 150 African inspired des ge. era international cov been enjoying both national and hion Week London, it has will Since launching Africa Fas the annual fashion week r, yea stock their d thir not it’s do g ers erin ign ent Now to the 3rd ny of the exhibiting des 1st ma he t m t tha fro ed ry erv we obs Bre n ma stocking fees have been be hosted at the Old Tru h any retailers. Expensive n Art s and Fashion wit ica s Afr tion lec The h col wit g t into the atin 2012 provided an insigh of August 2013, culmin rchester Hotel on the 4th the main reason. AFWL as Do s d iou cite stig dback pre fee the The at t ds. Initiative Banque turning sumers’ wants and nee draising event is aimed at nature of our target con fun their of this d, ms kin ter in its e of t itiv Firs August. ce in attendance was pos igners. ien des aud ing the erg m em fro for re lity chase mo creativity into sustainabi , sed that they would pur purchases, many expres at establishing , promoting destination ail ret a had y AFWL is a platform aimed the if n s African themed fashio n contemporary design ing ica erg Afr em g atin ebr cel encouraging and ary African catering to this need. that showcases contempor is mainly designers. It is a platform n is on the increase, but ce. ien aud bal glo a to The retail of African fashio and res ich will figu wh ry re, ust sto ind ble key rda to n affo hio an fas ury Conference (Rome, online channels. Hence h Lux oug une thr Trib to be nds rald He bra al The Internation outlet, but also allow er of the Mediterranean, only act as a distribution Pow e not “Th the on d ited use elic s foc Thi 2), d. November 201 Jean l public, was require nt saw keynote speaker accessible to the genera eve the and ica” Afr of re. e sto the Promis L’s concession IS THE FUTURE birth of Studio 29, AFW lare “AFRICAN FASHION AFWL’s Paul Gaultier rise to dec por ting African fashion, sup e tinu con to a bid In tion its but to suppor t in transi OF FASHION”. n is not just to showcase now; African fashion has sio is mis nt me mo the e, her is The time ican designers to sustainability. an avenue to enable Afr Fashion to be fully harnessed as ve the African Art s and ancement while adv al tur cul s Through our new initiati rld’ wo the to nted African tale ally ing xim erg ma em ute ng trib you con ficienc y for Africans in ve, we intend to suppor t suf iati self Init and e suppor t anc to bal ic ds with startup fun achieving econom ers by empowering them tinent. ign con des n ica Afr yment in the plo on em th and the Diaspora the low rate of you Fashion their creative ideas. With erprise arm of the Africa ent ir creative ial the soc on ed ofit rov -pr imp non The young people have ers in Diaspora, the sign of De lot n a , ica ica Afr Afr of n to atio there is the lack of funds Week London; the Associ n Diaspora; the aim ng it to earn a living. But ica usi Afr ls, the skil this in s ers res ign add des ps startup fund hel suppor ts emerging them to the nex t level. The society through fashion e to tak ns hin utio wit trib s eur con e ren itiv rep of making pos vide budding ent ng faced by challenge, and aims to pro es with the challenges bei launch a ts and creativity. It identifi nce and tools needed to jec pro fina ent the ry lem ust imp ind e and p ativ elo cre dev the to s aim emerging designers and ss. ering successful fashion busine challenges thereby engend that will overcome these ting mo pro to n itio add in olved, and sustainability for those inv into e of Africa by infusing it tur cul n hio fas nic eth the rich contemporary designs.

FUTURE OF FASHION

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ACTRESS

ENTREPRENEUR

PHILANTHROPIST

Words: ELVIS UDEGBE

rowned Miss Universe Ghana in 2004, Menaye Donkor, later represented her native country. Ghana at the Miss Universe Pageant in Quito, Ecuador. After victory at the pageant, her. modeling career was launched and her face graced many a Ghanaian magazine. Marketing graduate with honors from York University, Toronto, Donkor expanded her modelling portfolio with editorial work in magazines from Canada to South Africa nd Milan. Winning the beauty contest afforded her the opportunity to work in charity and to forge a career in acting. Menaye talks exclusively with AFWL MAGAZINE. AFWL: Raised in a traditional African royal home, did your family resist your participation in a beauty pageant? MD: Being a Canadian–born-Ghanaian, I can proudly say that I have the best of both worlds. There are certain values instilled in me as an African woman, but I was given many options as a child to explore in life. My parents are my support system and have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. I have a close knit family and everyone has contributed to my upbrining. It took a village to raise me and I am thankful for that. Participating and winning the Miss Universe Pageant opened many doors for me and has helped make me who I am today. AFWL: How did winning ‘Miss Universe Ghana’ help your career as an international model? MD: Winning the title Miss Universe Ghana was a huge personal success and an extremely important experience in my life. It elevated my status as an individual and opened many doors for me, including a career in modeling. Being a beauty queen is completely different from being a model but it was my experience with photographer Fadil Berisha at the Miss Universe Pageant in Ecuador that changed my life. It was

AFWL: You are also passionate about charity. Do tell us about your work.

my first ‘official’ Shoot and I completely transformed in front of the camera. Fadil saw that ‘it’ factor and he encouraged me to give modeling a try. We did a test shoot in New York and the rest as they say is history. AFWL: What is your advice for other young African girls who want to go into modeling? MD: First and foremost is to embrace who they truly are because that helps to build one’s self confidence. We all have that ‘it’ factor tucked away somewhere but we just need to find what really works for us. The modeling industry can be cruel at times and without self-confidence one might end up being just a puppet with a broken self-esteem. Of course just like any business, there are prerequisites and in modeling you must fit a certain criteria but being true to yourself goes a long way. AFWL: What chances are there in the international front today for young African Models? MD: International model scouts are everywhere but unfortunately not many of them scout in Africa. It is much easier to succeed in modeling if you are already in one of the fashion capitals, for example London, New York, Paris, Milan etc. I’m always happy and proud to see African models during high fashion weeks. The industry is gradually changing and African models are in demand in most high-fashion shows in Europe. I really appreciate the diversity because it is beginning to open doors for up-and-coming African talent.

MD: My father always believed in charity work and supported his community long before I founded the Menaye Charity Organisation. I was always taught to share and to help the less fortunate at a very young age so it was an easy transition for me to continue what he already started. I adopted the school my father established in 2000 which is now a non profit institution with 300 children. I’m extremely blessed to be in the position to continue my father’s legacy and to change lives in my home country Ghana. AFWL: International fashion scene: what do you think Africans should do to earn a larger portion of the industry? MD: I think African designers have a huge potential but there is still room for improvement. We need to work on creativity and take risk in order to establish ourselves in the fashion industry. I believe that projects like African Fashion Week London will help to promote African talents. AFWL: How do you evaluate opportunities such as AFWL for young African models in the Diaspora? MD: The opportunities are endless. It’s a matter of maintaining what we have already started. It is our time to be seen and heard and we must take advantage of it because we have the talent. AFWL: What do you see in the future of AFWL and similar African Inspired projects for Diaspora talent? MD: It will only get better with time. I am very proud of the organisers for their immense work and effort to promote African fashion. It needed to be done and I am glad they took the initiative to begin a project which I believe will open doors for up-and-coming designers/models and gain recognition for young talent in Africa. When you learn, teach...when you get, give!!! (Maya Angelou)

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL

ublicity and talent management agency, S Two Media was established in 2012 by media experts Suby and Sinem Onabanjo. After leaving a career in IT project management, Suby ventured into the world of fashion photography in 2005 before co-founding FAB Magazine where he is the creative director. Suby plays a key role in the new business development of the agency as well as the strategic planning and project management of client campaigns and managing events and runways shows.

S TWO MEDIA Creative Communications in Fashion, Lifestyle & Entertainment

Sinem, on the other hand, started a career in the media first as a freelance writer for numerous publications including Elle Turkey, Colures, Arise, True Love West Africa, New African Woman before being appointed as a contributing editor at BHF magazine in 2007 where she was then promoted to managing editor. In 2009 she cofounded FAB Magazine where she still works as the editor-in-chief. Sinem takes a very hands-on approach to coverage generation, specifically focusing on product and news story placement. “Although our respective jobs, firstly as a journalist and a photographer, later as an editor and creative director, meant we were always at the forefront of the fashion and entertainment world, connecting like-minded creatives for outstanding results and spotlighting talents which had not yet been discovered or highlighted, it was not till 2011 we realised that we had been doing publicity for numerous people and businesses over the years and it was time to put a name and title to all that we could offer potential clients,” says Sinem of the birth of S TWO Media. Specialising in strategic PR solutions that guarantee increased visibility around a brand, product, event or person and ensuring every initiative or campaign has a unique objective, S TWO Media works closely with each client to create bespoke packages that ensure their objectives are achieved. S TWO Media’s PR approach revolves around hands-on, hard-hitting coverage generation in top-tier target media, maintaining and continually nurturing strong personal connections with the fashion and lifestyle press which enables us to keep the pulse on what is going on in the media and where our clients fit in. While Suby and Sinem began work in publicity in earnest, initially as media consultants for a number of events, then signing on UK-based social enterprise iROCK’s Tribes of Africa fundraiser in May 2012 before getting on board Africa Fashion Week London 2012, their role as publicity consultants has organically developed into business consultancy and talent management, other two key services now added to their fast growing portfolio. With years of experience in both the fashion and media industries, S TWO Media’s unique selling point and strength lies in being at the centre of these two often overlapping industries and it is this background which has enabled the founders to build a little black book of invaluable contacts within the media, fashion and lifestyle industries. Good contacts, great relations and fantastic brands allow the company to generate exceptional results in achieving the objectives of our clients. stwopr

S TWO MEDIA clients:

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Fashion Africa Business Workshops™ Are you are a fashion designer or fashion business who is interested in setting up your fashion business sourcing and/or producing in Africa? Are you curious about how to make it happen sustainably and ethically? The Answer:

Areas of study include:

Fashion Africa Business (F.A.B) Workshops™ An affordable, intensive 4-week program by social enterprise & sourcing consultancy AFRICA FASHION GUIDE conducted in a relaxed classroom style format by qualified industry professionals. Our F.A.B Workshops™ gives design entrepreneurs the relevant tips, strategies, tools and resources to be able to successfully prepare, build and grow your own African focused fashion business based on sustainable design practices and ethical working conditions.

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AFRICA CENTRE SUMMER FESTIVAL 3+4 AUGUST 2013 FROM 12 PM TO 10 PM IN & AROUND COVENT GARDEN PIAZZA Join us for a challenging, provocative African festival, reflecting the progressive modernism that has emerged post-independence. It’s a free weekend festival of music, fashion, visual arts, film and more: Headline act: Nneka Africa Fashion Week London, DJ Edu, Tunde Jegede Wale Ojo & the Kalakuta Express, Bumi Thomas, Kasai Masai The Venus Bushfires, Celloman, DRB-Lasgidi and photography exhibition in Covent Garden tube station and piazza plus much more.

For more information visit: www.africacentre.org.uk

Revolution Kid (Fox) by Yinka Shonibare MBE

Curated by Yinka Shonibare MBE

YOUNG FASHION DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

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Words: SINEM BILEN-ONABANJO

MARIAM AFOLABI of Mademoiselle Aglaia

Founded in 2009, Mademoiselle Aglaia works with African and

Citing Chanel, Givenchy and Balmain fashion houses as

Following her debut show at AFWL 2012, Afolabi successfully launched her collection Acanthus and Renaissance Art with a spectacular fashion show produced by fashion maven Toyin Lawani at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

major influencers, Afolabi adds, “These designers have inspired the style and technique I have adopted in my collection. The use of beads, embroidery and prints to express their style … the techniques and styles in my collection reflect this.” With such consistency and creativity so early in her career, AFWL is sure Mariam will take this African label to new heights of international success.

contemporary fabrics to create unique, African-inspired looks for the contemporary woman.

this page THULA SINDI, Collections from 2012 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Africa and 2013 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Johannesburg

Warwick University Law student and CEO/Creative Director of fashion label Mademoiselle Aglaia, Mariam Afolabi’s collection caught the attention of many at last year’s Africa Fashion Week London. Recipient of the first ever ‘AFWL Young Fashion Designer of the Year Award’, Afolabi’s work is fast becoming the collection to watch.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

a v e Y TREND

US O I C A V & VI

h a i d r o l a

RESTLESS AND FEARLESS, THIS BLAZING THUNDERBOLT OF A FEMALE MUSICIAN HAS SET THE NIGERIAN MUSIC SCENE ON FIRE AND SHE IS STILL HEATING IT UP. Most people know Eva as a rapper, singer and dancer. Lesser known is that Eva is also a model, make-up artist and a fashion personality. A breakaway act from the conservative Nigerian norm, she has delved into the more demanding genre of hip-hop and rap and conquered the industry. Born to Nigerian parents from the Delta State, she moved west as a child, with her parents and grew up in Lagos. She graduated from Bowen University with a degree in computer science in 2009. Tireless in her efforts and with an obsession with music, that same year, she released her first studio record. Titled ‘I Dey Play’ and produced by Tha-Suspect, the song became a fan-favourite and received air play across African radio stations. With the success of ’I Dey Play’, she went on to record more tracks. “Music really helps me express myself in ways I could never imagine possible. As soon as I step

AFWL

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

onto the stage to perform, I get lost in a completely new world that is magical and selfless.”

Awards and Nominations:

Eva’s dynamic delivery and lyrical abilities shine through effortlessly. In a genre often seen as an exclusive preserve of men, she has clearly mastered the art of rap.

WINNER “Best Female Rap single” YEM AWARDS 2012

The first single from the EP ‘I Done Did it’ resonated with all who heard it. Released in 2011, the EP held the No.1 spot in music charts across Nigeria for a number of weeks, as her fans and the media hailed it as the best rap song from a female rapper. On the back of this success it seems evident that there is a future for female rap artists in Nigeria. A testament to her skills as an artist, this fierce female rapper and entertainer has guest featured on tracks with Psquare, Jesse Jagz, Waje, Femi Kuti, Shank, Bez, Saucekid, D’prince, and Iceprince. With a multitude of talent in music, fashion and beauty, Eva is proving she is all about the art.

WINNER “Female Rap Artiste of the Year” ELOY AWARDS 2011

WINNER “Most Promising Act to Watch” NIGERIA ENTERTAINMENT AWARDS 2012

Joan Okorodudu:

Getting inspired by a maverick From the humble beginning in rural Niger Delta, to building the most successful modeling agency in Nigeria, AFWL MAGAZINE invites Joan Okorodudu to share her life, challenges, achievements and beliefs. AFWL: Fashion designer, entrepreneur, ex-beauty queen, cosmetologist, former athlete and a psychiatrist. An impressive portfolio of achievemets.

ISIS Model

JO: I have always reached for greater heights, to do new things and conquer new grounds. Exploring new frontiers is a habit that came naturally to me. After the Nigerian Civil War, the military governor of Mid West State; showed interest in my athletic sporting abilities After completing my secondary education, I represented Bendel State at the Kaduna National Sports Festival and won the gold medal in 100m hurdles. It was at the University of Benin, a Boston University coach offered me a full athletics scholarship whilst studying Political Science. I was Florida State University’s 400m hurdlist for 3 consecutive years in a row, before representing the Nigerian Olympics team in 1980. AFWL: Can you give us a small glimpse into your career background? JO: I have a passion for cosmetology. I still help clients solve their skin problems and I have my own brand of skin-care products with my soap doing so well in the market. I am also a Psychiatric Clinician which is a field that I love so much. As a fashion designer, it has always been my dream to showcase on the world stage and this dream has truly come true.

AFWL: What informs your passion for fashion and modeling?

I have been able to showcase around the world including this great project of Ronke Ademuluyi. I started experimenting with fabrics in the university; making swimsuits out of African fabrics. AFWL: How many projects are you involved in currently? JO: I am involved with Nigeria’s Next Super Model, ECOWAS Fashion Week and another very big project that I am discussing with potential sponsors now.

JO: My passion comes from seeing so much potential from Africa with not much being done by sponsors to help them achieve their dreams. I have been able to turn a Nigerian born brand into an internationally acclaimed brand. I believe in creating a brand out of Africa and letting the world know that it can be done. The winner of ‘Africa’s Next Super Model’, Jessica Okpo from Ivory Coast is now signed to my agency and booked to catwalk at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Johannesburg. I have models from all over Africa and we receive worldwide enquiries. Isis Models has featured on Fashion TV, and in Vogue Magazine, AFWL magazine covers, Fab Mag, New African Woman, Elle, Glamour and many more. I know Africans are beginning to see that just because it is foreign doesn’t necessarily mean that it is better. I now know that young Nigerian girls would rather walk the ramp of Nigeria’s Next Super Model (NN) than any other.

... the future is going to help in making young men and women of this great continent to become models with international acclaim.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

AFWL

AFWL: What synergies have Isis Models and AFWL built to help the cause of African fashion in the international scene?

AFWL: How did you get started in the fashion industry? JO: I actually opened my first shop in 1990 called Euro Afrique in Wilmington, Delaware. I used to take already made African inspired dresses from Nigeria to USA. AFWL: You cite Isis Models was conceived out of desperatio. What efforts has Isis Models made to give African models a chance in the international scene? JO: The efforts I have made to give African models is just so much. I have been able to book not just Nigerian models but other African girls in the international arena. I am hoping that African companies will begin to realise that we have to help our youth. AFWL: What achievements can you list? JO: I have been able to see my models in great magazines like New African Woman, Vogue and FTV. My models have walked the runway in New York.

At the ‘BET Rip the Runway’ Isis model Bunmi Ademokoya was selected to open the show. Aisha Bello, Tinuade Adejokun, Aisha Olu and Tope were also at the event. ISIS models have also been booked for Mercedes Benz Fashion Weeks in Africa, New York, Malta, and London, including Africa Fashion Week London. AFWL: What makes African models distinctive from other models from other parts of the world? JO: African models are very distinctive, unfortunately they have yet to really make the limelight in the cosmopolitan setting and the fault lies with Africa itself. Let us stop blaming the west. The companies in Nigeria can do the same thing they have done in the music and movie industry for our models. We don’t have to leave Nigeria to go and live anywhere else to model. We have enough companies to keep our modeling and fashion industry booming.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

JO: The synergy between ISIS MODELS and AFWL is one that was made in Africa and started from the founder of AFWL’s support all these years to NNSM. Because we both have the same vision for showing African models and designers to the world, both brands have become a marriage made in heaven. The relationship I see in the future is going to help young men and women of this great continent to become models with international acclaim. I salute Ronke and her great team and say that your tenacity and audacity of courage has brought AFWL thus far. We look forward to 2013’s event women like Fifi Ejindu an iconic fashion person in Africa as they make their contributions to this landmark event. I salute the designers from Africa who toil day and night to make it. I salute those who have helped African fashion like Dr. Precious Motsepe I salute the courage of African women. I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to companies in Africa; to remind them that they hold the key to Africa’s economic growth. And finally, I salute the youths who are most definitely our future.

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M&E NOSCRUNCHIE AND AGESE OILS NUBIAN ORIGIN - Akom Vision QUINCY’S COLLECTION ROUGE VALLARI RYA-V JEWELLERY SA4Á SALLY INTIEGO SOTONYE SPLENDID SALAM THE VANITY BOXX AND KENZA ACCESSORIES THINK FRESH MEDIA TRIBALLERY™ ZARITA KOUTURE

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FEE UHSSI

RUUTZ ART & CREATION

ALICIA MULLINGS

GIBERKY

SA4A DESIGNS

ARACHNID CREATIONS

HALLEROS

SASCHA

ASAKE OGE

HOUSE OF FARRAH

SALLY INTIEGO

ASK MOOFA

HOUSE OF OPIAH

SIMEOGIEME

BAAH by Jessica Baah

HUDA DAGNEW

SLUU by Sluvin Designs

BARNET’S CREATIVE ENTERPRISE SOCIAL CLUB STUDENTS

JAZZ EFFECT DESIGNS

STEVE MANDY DESIGNS

KAVEKE

THULA SINDI

KILLAN DE BURGH

TUMISOLA LADEGA

LNK DESIGNS LOLLYADE

VAISHALI MORJARIA CREATIONS

C N DESIGNS

LUCIANO COUTURE

VOU BROWN

CROWN ROSE UK

MADAMOSELLE AGLAIA

YUTEES

DIDI CREATIONS

MELISSA WRIGHT

ZANDY B DESIGNS

ELEGANTE by TiannahStyling

METISSE

ZARITA KOUTURE

MONIS FASHION HOUSE

ZIZI CARDOW

AAMAA A LA MODE

EVE FIFTH AVENUE COLLECTION FOR ELLE GEES NATURAL HEALTH GLOBAL NETWORK HALLERO HOUSE OF LOULEE HOUSE OF SERNANTE UK LTD ILLAY KARA NTUMY LEWA JEWEL MAKINSY MEMA’S EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS METISSE MISSY EWA

BELLO DESIGNS BPINK CLISHA

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

MTOFO DESIGNS

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON

ADVERTORIAL

AFWL blah blah blah

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON