The 10th edition of Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) brought a wave of creativity, excitement, and innovation to Lagos, as the event celebrated its milestone anniversary in partnership with Sterling Bank. Held at the prestigious Oriental Hotel, the three-day extravaganza spotlighted African fashion’s transformative influence on art, music, film, and technology, while also highlighting its economic potential.

This year’s event, themed “African Fashion and Economic Impact on Art, Music, Film, and Technology,” exemplified the power of fashion as a driver of creativity and a unifying force during the festive season. Sterling Bank’s involvement reinforced its commitment to fostering Nigerian talent and driving economic growth through strategic partnerships.

Glamour on the Runway: A Platform for Emerging Designers

AFWN 2024 provided a dazzling platform for emerging designers to showcase their work to a global audience. The highlight of the event was a design competition, which saw up-and-coming talents vying for top honors.

Adesua Ella Impens of Lambert Fashion emerged as the winner, earning:

• A Staycation scholarship at KAP Academy, sponsored by Sterling Bank.
• An all-expenses-paid trip to showcase at the 2025 Africa Fashion Week London, providing her with international exposure.

In her acceptance speech, Adesua Ella expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Nigerian creativity on a global stage.

Sterling Bank’s Commitment to Creativity and Economic Growth

The Bank’s partnership with AFWN underscores its dedication to supporting Nigerian businesses and empowering creative entrepreneurs. The bank’s sponsorship is part of its larger vision to contribute to economic growth through initiatives that elevate the creative industry.

Speaking on the partnership, a representative from Sterling Bank stated:

“We believe in the transformative power of creativity. By supporting AFWN, we are investing in Nigerian talent and creating opportunities for emerging designers to thrive locally and globally.”

This collaboration highlights the bank’s strategy to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in industries that hold untapped economic potential, such as fashion.

AFWN’s Legacy of Empowerment

Founded by Queen Ronke’ Ademiluyi Ogunwusi, Africa Fashion Week Nigeria has consistently championed African designers, offering them a platform to connect with international audiences and establish sustainable careers.

“The competition is part of AFWN’s ongoing mission to spotlight and nurture fresh talent, giving young African designers a global platform to showcase their work,” Queen Ronke said.

Over the years, AFWN has grown into one of Africa’s premier fashion events, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.

A Celebration of Culture and Creativity

The 10th-anniversary edition of AFWN was more than just a fashion show—it was a celebration of African culture, creativity, and economic resilience. Guests were treated to stunning runway displays of intricate designs, bold patterns, and innovative collections that paid homage to Africa’s rich heritage.

The event also featured a blend of art, music, and film, creating a multi-sensory experience that captivated attendees. The presence of industry leaders, celebrities, and influential figures further elevated the event’s prestige, making it a standout moment in Lagos’ Yuletide celebrations.

Fashion as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

The theme of this year’s event emphasized the role of fashion in driving economic development across various sectors. AFWN illustrated how the creative industry can serve as a catalyst for job creation, export opportunities, and cultural diplomacy.

Fashion, coupled with art, music, film, and technology, holds immense potential for creating value and driving innovation. The event’s focus on these intersections underscored the need for greater investment in the creative economy to unlock its full potential.

Looking Ahead: AFWN’s Global Vision

With its 10th anniversary successfully concluded, AFWN is setting its sights on the future. The event’s international counterpart, Africa Fashion Week London 2025, promises to amplify the voices of African designers on a global stage, continuing the legacy of empowering creatives and showcasing Africa’s cultural wealth.

As Adesua Ella Impens prepares to represent Nigeria at AFWL 2025, her journey symbolizes the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for African designers when given the right platforms and support.

Conclusion

The 10th Africa Fashion Week Nigeria was a testament to the transformative power of fashion as a cultural and economic force. Through its partnership with Sterling Bank, the event not only celebrated creativity but also highlighted the potential of African fashion to impact global trends and economies.

AFWN 2024 proved that the creative industry is more than just an artistic endeavor—it is a vehicle for empowerment, innovation, and growth. As Lagos lit up with the glamour of the runway, it became clear that African fashion is poised to take center stage in the global creative economy.

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