Africa Fashion Up, the must-see event for contemporary African fashion in Paris, has announced the launch of its call for applications for its fifth edition, which will focus on Afro-futurism. Organized by the Share Africa association, this program has been showcasing emerging African fashion talent for five years, propelling them onto the international stage. For this new edition, applications are open from February 17 to April 15, 2025.
Since its creation in 2020 by Valérie KA, a French-Ivorian supermodel, Africa Fashion Up has established itself as a unique platform for supporting and showcasing the most promising African designers. The 2025 edition continues this mission by offering winners an immersive experience combining training, mentoring, and exclusive meetings with key players in the French and international fashion industry.
A booming fashion market, reflecting abundant creativity
African fashion is now establishing itself as a major creative and economic force. Driven by a young population, rapid urbanization, and a booming middle class, the fashion market in Africa, estimated at $31 billion in 2020, continues to grow. At the same time, the rise of e-commerce coupled with a growing enthusiasm for African designs is offering new opportunities for designers, allowing them to export their talent and make their mark on the global stage.
With more than 24 countries represented and over 500 applications received in previous editions, Africa Fashion Up has become a showcase for the continent's talent. In 2025, the program will celebrate this dynamic through the lens of Afrofuturism, highlighting fashion that combines innovation and cultural heritage.
A unique opportunity for African creators
The program is aimed at young African creators, stylists, and designers who want to share their vision of fashion beyond the continent. Following a rigorous selection process conducted by an international jury, five talents will be chosen for an immersive week in Paris.
This experience will include masterclasses and awakening sessions led by iconic figures in the industry, meetings with renowned fashion houses, and exclusive visits to program partners, including Balenciaga, HEC Paris, Galeries Lafayette, and Instituto Marangoni.
As the highlight of this adventure, the winners will have the opportunity to unveil their creations during an exceptional fashion show in Paris, showcasing their expertise and commitment to innovative and responsible fashion.
A springboard to international recognition
Since its inception, Africa Fashion Up has contributed to the emergence of designers who are now making a name for themselves on the international stage, enabling them to showcase their talent.
“We are proud to see the impact that Africa Fashion Up has had on the careers of many African designers. This fifth edition will be another opportunity to highlight the richness and diversity of African fashion, while offering emerging talents concrete tools to develop their brands and conquer new markets,” says Valérie KA, Founder of Share Africa.
How to apply?
For this new edition, two categories of applications are open:
Fashion Young Leader: Aimed at young African fashion designers or those from the diaspora, this category is for emerging talents who want to make a name for themselves and build their brand.
Best African Designer: Reserved for more established designers, this category also requires a registered business, resellers, and a strong presence and visibility on social media.
Designers wishing to participate in this adventure can submit their applications online on the program's official website: https://www.africafashionup.com/appel-a-candidatures.
About Africa Fashion Up:
Africa Fashion Up, initiated by Valérie Ka, is a support and coaching program designed to assist young African designers. It is also the first major Parisian event dedicated to contemporary African fashion, aiming to promote and encourage this booming scene.
For more information about the winners and AFUP, please visit the official website: https://www.africafashionup.com/.
About Share Africa
Share Africa is a platform for actions and projects that aims to promote a young, creative, innovative, and green Africa by encouraging entrepreneurs and creators in Africa. Visit the official Africa Fashion Up website: https://www.africafashionup.com/
Press contact:
Agence 35°Nord – Alysée Raganot: ar@35nord.com / +33 6 77 26 48 70
