Title: Africa Fashion International Hosts AFU Fundraising Show Ahead of Afcon Finals
Fashion has a place in every aspect of life, including sports. Over the past year, sports fashion has gained popularity, especially in football, where several teams have collaborated with fashion designers to create stylish kits.
As African nations unite for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), Africa Fashion International (AFI) is seizing this opportunity to host a continental fashion show.
Atafo. Picture: Supplied
On February 9, just before the Afcon finals, AFI will join forces with the Ministry of Culture and La Francophonie to present the Africa Fashion Unites (AFU) fundraising fashion show. The event will take place at the iconic Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire in Ivory Coast.
The fashion show aims to raise funds for the ABE APO ÉLISABETH Artisanal Center, located in the Alépé region. This center, founded by Ivorian cultural entrepreneur Michèle Yakice, focuses on training women and young people in traditional weaving, empowering them with valuable skills for self-sufficiency.
AFI’s Commitment to African Communities
Giacomo Tomassi, COO of AFI, emphasized the organization’s dedication to supporting the ABE APO ÉLISABETH Artisanal Center, highlighting its role in socio-economic development. “AFI is committed to ensuring the sustainability of this initiative, which is aligned with our mission to uplift communities across the continent,” said Tomassi.
The Ivorian government, through the Ministry of Culture, will partner with the Confederation of African Football to support the center’s long-term growth.
Celebrating African Designers at Afcon
Emerging and established designers from Afcon-participating countries will showcase their creativity during the event. Some of the featured designers include Urban Zulu, Niuku, Marie Louis Bishara, Loza, Laurence Airline, Lafalaise, Kente Gentlemen, and Atafo.
“This AFU Fundraising Fashion Show is a unique opportunity to celebrate the unifying power of art and fashion. It reflects Africa’s rich cultural heritage and fosters a strong sense of community,” added Tomassi.
Following the show, fashion and football fans will have the opportunity to bid on the showcased garments in an exclusive auction, further supporting the cause.
