[Paris, May 21, 2025] The Africa Fashion Up jury has announced the five winners of its 2025 edition. The first major Parisian event dedicated to African fashion is celebrating its fifth anniversary in style with a record number of entries: no fewer than 300 applications received, compared to nearly 200 last year. This success reflects the program's recognition as a major springboard for young contemporary African designers.
Since its launch in 2021, Africa Fashion Up has been supporting emerging talent from the continent and the diaspora, reflecting the vitality of a booming industry. Estimated at $31 billion in 2020, the African fashion market continues to grow. Currently valued at $15.5 billion in exports per year according to UNESCO, the continent's fashion industry revenues could triple over the next ten years, provided that designers benefit from a structured ecosystem and adequate support.
The five winners of the 2025 edition are:
DIBO, SUME, and FESE (ELOLI WORLD – Cameroon). Created by three sisters, Dibo, Sume, and Fese, ELOLI WORLD embraces vibrant colors, rich textures, and refined details to offer bold elegance that celebrates African heritage with a contemporary twist.
FRANK AGHUNO (Fruché – Nigeria). A self-taught designer, Frank Aghuno blends traditional textiles, contemporary design, and powerful personal narratives in a bold style. His collections celebrate uncompromising self-expression, and each piece is a manifesto of heritage, pride, and empowerment.
HAWI MIDEKSSA (HAWII – Ethiopia). Already making waves in Paris and New York, the HAWII brand stands out for its original style, blending Ethiopian heritage with international fashion. Each of its pieces tells a story, celebrating individuality and resilience. Committed to issues of empowerment, the brand is planning to set up a fashion school in Ethiopia to train the younger generation.
OSHOBOR ODION (OSHOBOR – Nigeria). An eccentric style and bright colors are the signature of Nigerian designer Oshobor Odion. His brand draws inspiration from a deeply emotional and heritage-rich repertoire, with numerous cultural references to the Edo region. Rooted in its local heritage, this slow fashion brand stands out for its strong commitment to sustainable practices.
SAMKELO XABA (BOYDE – South Africa). Geometric modernism and industrial architecture inspire the creations of South African designer Samkelo Xaba, whose style is distinguished by its simplicity and minimalism. His brand BOYDE offers luxurious fashion, crafted with high-quality expertise, with a particular focus on comfort and functionality. There is also a strong emphasis on sustainability in the manufacturing process.
At the end of June, these young designers will enjoy a professional immersion in Paris, including masterclasses, visits to fashion houses, and training in management and international business provided by HEC Paris. This week will mark the start of a four-month mentoring program, run in parallel by the École des Hautes Études Commerciales and Balenciaga, the luxury fashion house offering additional awareness sessions.
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/
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