The 2023 edition of African Heritage Fashion Week (AHFW), a major highlight on the African fashion calendar, reached an exciting milestone as the Cameroon English Fashion Designers Association (CEFDA) revealed this year’s sponsorship recipients at the AHFW Awards in Buea. Held on April 15th, 2023, at the Pinorich Villa in Buéa, Cameroon, the event drew Africa’s top designers, industry professionals, buyers, and leading retail brands, all eager to witness cutting-edge fashion trends and celebrate Africa’s growing global influence.
Each year, CEFDA awards sponsorships to menswear and womenswear designers of African descent, offering financial backing, opportunities to showcase their collections, and mentorship to help expand their brands. The recipients are carefully selected by CEFDA for their creativity and potential to shape the future of African fashion and impact the global market. Speaking at the event, CEFDA Vice President Mr. Nuvi Gana emphasized the organization’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and promoting sustainability in African fashion. He urged corporations and private investors to collaborate with CEFDA to expand the designer development program and support even more creators.
The sponsorships provide emerging designers and fashion entrepreneurs with access to vital resources, including financial support, mentorship, exposure, and the opportunity to collaborate with established industry professionals. This support can be a game-changer, giving new talents the tools they need to build sustainable fashion businesses and further elevate the growing reputation of made-in-Africa brands.
This year’s CEFDA sponsorship recipients were a diverse group of talented designers and brands specialising in various categories, including sustainable fashion, haute couture, streetwear, and Afro-contemporary designs, demonstrating the rich diversity on the continent.
One of the most celebrated winners was rising designer Annie Matene Chancelle, whose innovative use of ethically sourced traditional materials and bold designs for people of all body types and shapes. The brand inspires and uplifts women who have faced stereotypes, body shaming, or any form of societal judgment. Annie’s EmpowerWear celebrates the journey of self-love and acceptance through our unique, stylish, and comfortable fashion designs.
Her brand, which focuses on creating contemporary African-inspired fashion, stood out for its originality, craftsmanship, and commitment to ethical production.
Another notable recipient was Izzi Wears, a men’s wear brand that has gained traction for its fusion of contemporary fashion with traditional African patterns. The brand, led by designer Izzi Ekhahiemen, uses African fabric for self-discovery, self-expression, and personal branding. With a passion for celebrating different identities and promoting inclusivity, Izzi wears collections that transcend mere clothing—they allow individuals to embrace their authentic selves and connect with people with like-minded styles and identities.
Udochi Wuchegbule, the founder of Udela Designs, has garnered recognition in the sustainable fashion category for her efforts in promoting eco-friendly fashion. Her label, which uses recycled materials for the signature Boubou collection and urban-styled dresses, is one of the rising stars promoting ethical fashion.
The line of designers showcasing at the AFWH is a testament to CEFDA’s leading role in nurturing talent in the region and ensuring that emerging designers have the resources, network, and mentorship needed to grow their brands. The Africa Heritage Fashion Week 2023 was more than just a runway showcase; it provided recipients with networking opportunities with established designers and buyers and exposed them to the fashion business.
As the African Heritateg Fashion Week 2023 came to a close, we are excited about the next phase of the African fashion industry and hope that more support will unleash new brands in the region.
