The First Lady of Ekiti State in Nigeria is no stranger to the Africa Fashion Week London event, she first attended in 2012 and has expressed her admiration regarding the growth and development that has occurred within the organisation over the years.
The Global Ambassador of AFWL 2019 is the Co-Founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF). The first pan-African grant-making organisation, which has played a key role in the promotion of feminist movement building in Africa. She has also served as a UN Women Nigeria Senior Advisor, and was recently appointed as a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at King’s College, University of London.
She believes events such as AFWL reminds the world that the African continent is rich in diversity and all areas of fashion. she goes on to say…
“Fashion is an integral part of our identity as Africans. Through our various textiles, tapestries, embroideries, hairstyles, jewelry, permanent and non-permanent tattoos, we tell stories that reflect our history, values, complexity and uniqueness”
Her Excellency is dedicated to encouraging creative talent and is working on a project with young designers and dressmakers in Ekiti State,Nigeria. In October 2019 there will be an ‘Ekiti Entrepreneurship Week’, which will include an exhibition of work of Ekiti designers as well as a fashion show. She is keen on the creation of jobs and wealth through the fashion industry, The First Lady of Ekiti is also passionate about reviving and promoting the weaving industry in the State.
As the events Global Ambassador she would like to draw attention to the need to invest in women and girls. She believes the economic, social and political empowerment of women is very important, highlighting that no development is possible without taking into consideration the needs of half of the population. She sees the fashion industry and its entire value chain as one way in which we can promote the voices and creativity of both women and men.
The First Lady believes the future is bright for African Fashion and AFWL.
“We should focus on the things we do well and not worry about imitating others. You can only be the best version of yourself, otherwise you end up as a poor imitation of someone else. We (Africa) have fabulous designers who can claim the world as their own. It would be my pleasure to continue working with AFWL”
To meet the First Lady of Ekiti State Nigeria and other notable dignitaries be sure to join us at the Freemason Hall on the 9th and 10th of August 2019 for the 9th Annual Africa Fashion Week London.
Website: https://www.africafashionweeklondonuk.com
For event tickets click Here
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