Council for International African Fashion Education (@ciafeorg)

The Call for Papers for Volume 1, Issue 2 of the Journal for African and Diaspora Fashion is now open! We are thrilled to invite submissions for our interdisciplinary peer-reviewed academic publication that provides a platform to delve deep into diverse topics related to the African and Diaspora fashion industry. Issue 2 is themed “Sustainable Fashion in Africa: Past and Futures”. Examining this theme provides the opportunity to deepen the understanding of the socio-cultural, economic, and environmental facets of sustainability in the fashion industry, all within the vibrant context of African and diasporic experiences. The sub-themes include, but are not limited to: 📜 Historical Perspectives on Sustainable Fashion Practices in Africa 🌿 Traditional Eco-friendly Textiles and Materials: Their Uses, Significance, and Potential 🎨 Contemporary Innovations in Sustainable Fashion: African Designers Leading the Change 🌍 The Global Impact of African Sustainable Fashion Initiatives 🚀 Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Fashion Development in Africa 🤝 The Intersection of Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Sustainability Principles 🌅 Future Prospects and Aspirations for Sustainable Fashion in Africa 📚 Case Studies of Successful Sustainable Fashion Projects and Initiatives 💻 How Technology is Shaping the Future of Sustainable Fashion ⚖️ Exploring Legal Hurdles and Opportunities in Sustainable Fashion 🔁 The Relationship Between Waste Colonialism and Sustainable Fashion The submission deadline is November 30th, 2023, at 11:59 pm GMT time. To learn more about the submission guidelines, subthemes, and other related details, kindly visit our website or click the link in our bio! We look forward to receiving submissions on your unique insights and contributions to this crucial area of fashion! Image Credit: @thediarrablu #journalafricanfashion #diasporafashion #africanfashiondiscourse #africanfashionjournal #africanfashionstudies #fashionpublication #africandiaspora #africanfashioninsights #fashionacademia

CIAFE is thrilled to unveil Volume 1, Issue 1 of the first ever Journal for African and Diaspora Fashion! We are excited to announce the highly anticipated release of the Journal for African and Diaspora Fashion. This inaugural issue marks a significant milestone in our mission to advance the scholarly discourse on African and diaspora fashion. The Journal for African and Diaspora Fashion, a mixed-media interdisciplinary peer-reviewed journal, serves as a platform for sharing and disseminating cutting-edge research, insightful analyses, and thought-provoking perspectives. With a focus on exploring the diverse and dynamic field of African and Diaspora fashion, this issue presents a collection of exceptional articles highlighting this vibrant industry's rich tapestry. In this Issue 1, you will find a captivating compilation of research across various engaging topics, including conceptualising African fashion, preservation and education in African fashion, marketing, manufacturing and representation. Containing 14 brilliant articles, each one offers valuable insights and fresh perspectives, shedding light on the complex intersections between fashion and the African and diaspora contexts. We extend our gratitude to the esteemed authors who have contributed their exceptional research and our diligent reviewers who have provided valuable feedback and guidance. We invite you to explore Issue 1 of the Journal by visiting our website https://www.ciafe.org/journal. As you delve into this collection of scholarly work, we hope it sparks new ideas, inspires further research, and fosters meaningful conversations within the field. Click on the link in our bio to read the first issue of the Journal! Image Credit: Seydou Keïta #journalafricanfashion #diasporafashion #fashionresearch #africanfashiondiscourse #africanfashionjournal #africanfashionstudies #fashionpublication #africandiaspora #africanfashioninsights #fashionacademia #africanfashionindustry #africanfashionresearch #africanculture #scholarlyjournal #fashionanalysis #africanfabrics #fashionmarketing #brandinginclusion #africantechnology #africaneconomics

Calling all fashion students and enthusiasts! Get ready to dive deep into the rich history of African and diaspora fashion with our new course. The History of African and Diaspora Fashion course explores the rich and diverse history of fashion across the African continent and diaspora with the aim of demystifying the intricacies of African fashion and dispelling monolithic ideas that have been propagated for far too long. To make your learning journey as smooth as possible, we're excited to announce our new post featuring what you need to know about the course and frequently asked questions. From the origins of kente cloth to the evolution of Black American streetwear, we've got you covered. Swipe through the post for answers to common questions and information to enhance your understanding of the course. #ciafe #fashioneducation #fashionindustry #africanfashion #africanfashionindustry #africanfashionhistory #fashionentrepreneurship #fashionhistory #fashionschool #fashionacademy #fashionentrepreneurs #fashionbusiness #skillshare #fashioncourse #fashioncurriculum #sustainability #fashionbranding #fashionmarketing

We’re excited to bring you great news! Our Director @fbrooksworth has launched a new initiative @afdinitiative committed to advancing Africa’s fashion industry through strategic investment, research, and capacity-building. If you’re an aspiring fashion entrepreneur seeking a micro grant to help you kick start your venture. Be sure to follow the institute to stay updated on developments. This initiative was birthed from the experience working within CIAFE. We will also be sharing some updates here. All the best on your applications!

📍 Read Our Latest Briefing Paper: ‘The Influence of Private Equity and Venture Capital in Advancing Africa’s Fashion Sector As Africa’s fashion industry continues to gain traction on the global stage, strategic investment and access to capital are critical for driving growth. Our latest briefing paper explores how private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) firms are shaping the industry, helping local brands expand, innovate, and establish themselves in international markets. Key Insights Include: ➡️ Transformational Impact: PE and VC investments have the potential to fuel growth by providing essential capital, strategic guidance, and access to global networks—accelerating African fashion brands’ entry into international markets. ➡️ Challenges: From economic volatility to underdeveloped infrastructure, African fashion faces distinct challenges that must be addressed to attract sustained investment. ➡️ Key Considerations: Balancing rapid scale with cultural integrity, promoting sustainability, and navigating the high-risk environment are crucial for both investors and local brands. Thoughtful investments can foster ethical growth while maintaining Africa’s unique fashion identity. ➡️ Recommendations: Governments and international stakeholders must create a more enabling environment through incentives, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships that support sustainable and inclusive growth in Africa’s fashion sector. Explore the paper and discover how private equity and venture capital can reshape the future of African fashion by addressing these key challenges and leveraging strategic opportunities for sustainable development. 🔗 Read the full briefing paper here: ciafe.org/briefing-papers Would love to hear from you! #CIAFE #PrivateEquity #VentureCapital #AfricanFashion #SustainableGrowth #GlobalFashion #FashionInvestment #PolicyRecommendations #EconomicDevelopment

Dear Friends and Supporters, We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support, engagement, and contributions over the past months. While our public presence has been quiet, our commitment to advancing African fashion and amplifying the voices of designers and creatives from the continent and the diaspora has been anything but idle. Behind the scenes, we have been working diligently on several important projects, and we are eager to share the fruits of this work with you in the coming months. Your patience and unwavering interest have been deeply appreciated, and we are particularly moved by the overwhelming response to the African and Diaspora Fashion History course. The enthusiasm, with enrolments continuing to this day, underscores the significance of this dialogue and the importance of preserving and celebrating our rich cultural heritage through fashion. We are excited to continue this journey with you, furthering our collective impact on the global fashion landscape. Thank you once again for your trust and engagement; we look forward to what lies ahead. Speak soon, Frederica Brooksworth and Coy Griffin

📢 CIAFE is proud to announce the third edition of Africa’s Young Fashion Leaders Fellowship. This prestigious initiative stands as a beacon for emerging talents in the fashion industry, offering them a chance to engage in a professional development and training scheme that is pivotal in fostering significant changes globally. Through hands-on experience on live projects, the fellowship aims to produce innovative solutions that will leave a lasting impact on the fashion landscape. 📙 The theme of the 2024 Fellowship Programme is Making Impact In Fashion Through Academic Publishing. This year, the fellowship is thrilled to focus on academic research publishing. Our goal is to assist aspiring scholars who aim to make their mark by having their research published. Beneficiaries will have the unique opportunity to contribute to renowned publications such as the Journal for African and Diaspora Fashion and Bloomsbury Fashion Business Cases, which are esteemed resources in academic institutions worldwide. 🔴 Programme Timeline   Application Period: Open as of today Application Deadline: May 31st 2024 Fellowship Duration: July 2024 to January 2025 ➡️ How to Apply   Applications for the fellowship are now live. For more information on how to apply, including submission guidelines and required documents, please visit our website ciafe.org/africas-young-fashion-leaders-fellowship #AfricanFashion #fashioneducation #AfricanFashionResearch #DiasporaFashion #FashionResearch

Tamu Macpherson is a celebrated fashion and style blogger known for her influential work in the fashion industry. With a passion for showcasing diverse and inclusive styles. Her unique perspective and creative vision have led her to work with numerous renowned fashion brands, and her work continues to inspire and empower individuals to embrace their own style with confidence and authenticity. Tamu launched her own fashion blog which quickly gained a loyal follower due to her unique ability to capture street style with a focus on diversity and individuality. In addition, to her blog, he has also contributed to major publications such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle where she continues to advocate for greater representation of Black voices in fashion. Her tireless dedication to inclusivity has not only transformed the fashion industry but also inspired countless individuals to embrace their cultural heritage through personal style. #TamuMacpherson #BlackHistoryMonth #FashionIconTamu #StyleInfluencer #DiversityInFashion #TamuTrends #EleganceEveryday #FashionForward #EmpowermentThroughStyle #BlackExcellenceInFashion #TamuStyleInspo #TrailblazerTamu #ChicAndClassy #RepresentationMatters #BoldAndBeautifulStyles #GlamourWithGrace #InnovativeFashionista #CultureAndChic #LuxuryLifestyleLeader #FashionActivist #IconicLooksByTamu #StyleWithSubstance #FashionRevolutionary #ElegantInfluences #TamuFashionLegacy Image Credits: Jessica Michault

Julee Wilson, a highly skilled journalist, and editor, has played a transformative role in the fashion industry through her passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to diversity. Wilson's career path, which began as a fashion and beauty assistant, demonstrated her in-depth knowledge of how the media shapes public perception  Her pivotal role as Fashion and Beauty Director at Essence magazine marked a turning point, challenging stereotypes and significantly influencing perceptions of black beauty and fashion. Beyond her editorial work, Wilson actively advocates for inclusivity, dismantling racial and ethnic prejudices within the industry. She utilises her platform to celebrate black culture, pushing boundaries and defying stereotypes through storytelling. Wilson extends her commitment to diversity by supporting educational programs that foster the development of the next generation of diverse talent in fashion, actively mentoring and creating opportunities. #JuleeWilson #FashionTransformation #DiversityChampion #BreakingFashionBarriers #InclusiveBeauty #BlackCultureCelebration #IndustryInfluencer #NarrativeShift #EmpowerThroughStorytelling #TrailblazingEditorial #DefyingFashionStereotypes #MentorshipInAction #NextGenFashionTalent #BreakingDownBarriers #FashionEducationMatters #InclusionAdvocate #FashionTrailblazer #EmpowermentThroughFashion #LegacyofInclusion #NarrativeRevolution #DismantlePrejudices #FashionForwardFuture #InspiringLeadership #FashionIndustryImpact #ChangeMaker Image Credits: Fashionista

Fashion industry pioneer Rajni Jacques is a force to be reckoned with, defying conventions and promoting diversity in a field that has a history of excluding other viewpoints. By providing a platform for black creatives, models, and designers, Jacques has broken down boundaries and preconceptions in his capacity as a stylist and fashion editor. Beyond just her artistic talents, she has had a profound influence on the industry by advocating for a more diverse and inclusive atmosphere. Jacques, a Black American fashion pioneer, challenges conventional notions of beauty and promotes greater diversity by using her powerful position to uplift marginalized people. She challenges racial and identity prejudices by showcasing the natural beauty of variety via her imaginative style and making a strong statement about how fashion can be a dynamic medium for cultural expression. Beyond her creative #RajniJacques #FashionPioneer #DiversityInFashion #BreakingConventions #BlackCreativesPlatform #InclusiveFashionMovement #FashionEditor #BoundaryBreakingStyle #AdvocateForDiversity #FashionIndustryChange #BlackFashionTrailblazer #BlackHistoryMonth#CulturalExpressionThroughFashion #InfluentialStylist #FashionInclusivityAdvocate #DiverseViewpoints #UpliftingMarginalizedVoices #PowerfulFashionEditor #ChampionOfBlackDesigners #ArtisticInfluence #FashionRevolutionary #RedefiningBeautyStandards #CulturalExpressionInStyle #InclusiveFashionSpace #BreakingPreconceptions Image Credits: Gossamer

Winnie Harlow, also known as Chantelle Whitney Brown-Young, has become a transformative figure in the fashion industry who questions accepted notions of beauty and promotes acceptance. When Harlow was four years old, she was diagnosed with vitiligo. She used this unique skin condition as a sign of empowerment. Her big break came in 2014 when she participated in America's Next Top Model, where she placed sixth and became well-known for her unique appearance and confidence. This signalled the start of her rise in the fashion industry, demonstrating the transforming power of embracing uniqueness in the face of social expectations, especially in the world of modelling. Beyond her modeling success, Harlow has played a pivotal role in reshaping the fashion industry's perception of beauty. Through prominent appearances in fashion events, advertisements, and publications, she has challenged norms and expanded the definition of beauty.  #WinnieHarlow #ChantelleWhitneyBrownYoung #TransformativeFashion #BeautyRedefined #VitiligoEmpowerment #AcceptanceMatters #UniqueBeauty #ModelsWithVitiligo #BreakingBeautyNorms #ConfidenceInUniqueness #TopModelBreakthrough #FashionIndustryRise #EmbraceYourUniqueness #ModelingWithVitiligo #BeautyBeyondExpectations #BlackHistoryMonth #FashionTrailblazer #RedefiningBeautyStandards #ConfidentlyUnique #FashionPerceptionShift #Icon #EmbracingUniqueness #InclusiveBeauty #FashionEmpowerment #VitiligoAwareness #DiverseDefinitionOfBeauty Image Credits: New Beauty

Grace Mahary, a Canadian model of Eritrean descent, rose to prominence in the fashion industry at the age of 21 by entering the "Mode Models International" contest. Working with prestigious designers such as Givenchy and Chanel, Mahary's adaptability paved the way for other Black models around the world. Mahary is well-known for her social advocacy and charitable work, which focuses on racial equality and representation, in addition to her prosperous modelling career. Beyond the catwalk, she continues to inspire the next generation of fashionistas, particularly in the Black community. Mahary's legacy highlights the value of varied viewpoints in fostering an inclusive fashion industry and leveraging influence to speak out on larger social issues. She is hailed as a role model who exemplifies the groundbreaking impact of challenging standards in the dynamic fashion sector. #blackhistorymonth #GraceMahary #FashionTrailblazer  #BreakingBarriers #DiverseBeauty #ModelingIcon #InclusiveFashion#RepresentationMatters #FashionActivism #InspiringLegacy #BlackModelsRock #SocialChange #FashionInfluencer #BeautyRedefined #EmpowerThroughFashion #GlobalFashionIcon #QuestionTraditions #ModelsWithPurpose #BeyondTheCatwalk #RedefiningStandards #FashionDiversity #GracefulActivism #ModelsWithImpact #BreakingNorms #LegacyOfInfluence #FashionRevolution Image Credits: FASHION Magazine