African Fashion International (AFI) continues its charge as the leader in taking African fashion to the world. In celebration of International Women’s Day, AFI in partnership with Forbes will be taking part in the inaugural 30/50 Summit due to take place in Abu Dhabi from March 6-9.
The 30/50 Summit, a global event that will bring together women from both the “30 Under 30” list and “50 Over 50” list, will not only offer keynote addresses by some of the most powerful global leaders, but will also offer a powerful catalyst for change in a region that has often been found wanting when it comes to gender equality.
As part of the festivities, the summit will also host a fashion showcase that will see a sartorial cultural exchange, offering multi-perspective critique of gender norms and women’s empowerment. With a finely curated line up, the showcase will see Pan-African designers representing all four corners of the continent, from the North, South, East and West. They will be presenting alongside a UAE-based designer, as well as an American designer of Persian ancestry.
In its quest to nurture and support young talent, AFI Young Designer of the Year 2021 Shamyra Moodley of LaaniRaani will make her international debut at Abu Dhabi. With dedication to sustainability and craftsmanship, LaaniRaani will follow in the footsteps of previous winners of the prestigious prize who have gone on to become household names.
Supporting South Africa’s exciting new talent will be fellow compatriot, Sober Design House, which offers urban chic with its use of bold ultra-feminine shapes. Founded by head designer, Tshepo Mafokwane, the brand celebrates all women and their tremendous ability to conquer anything.
Powerhouse Marie Louis Bishara is one of the leaders when it comes textiles having designed and manufactured seven in-house brands under BTM and Marielouis. Her renowned fashion brand, Bishara, which was founded over two decades ago, continues to be a leader in men’s and women’s fashion having showcased across the globe.
No stranger to the big stage, Madagascar-born Eric Raisina’s eponymous label will also be taking part in the exciting showcase. Raisiana’s dedication to exploring textiles has made his one-of-a-kind pieces and textiles well sought after.
At the core of Ghanaian fashion house, Christie Brown, is the mission to build a fashion brand that has a legacy rooted in empowering women. Christie Brown is a luxury ready-to-wear brand with designs that are inspired by African traditions and culture.
As part of the fashion exchange, the cultural runway will also feature the UAE’s Sara Tamimi, a brand that continually pushes the boundaries of conformity. Sara Tamimi’s signature cosmopolitan style offers a reflection of urban life, with timeless elegance.
Completing the lineup will be eveningwear brand, Sima Collezione. Founded just over a year ago, the US-based brand is the brainchild of Sima Azadegan. The brand comprises 50 high-style designs of exclusive, one-of-a-kind evening dresses.
To catch the global fashion showcase, make sure to grab your front row seat online via the AFI website. You will also have the opportunity to shop the runway. Register today to secure your seat at
About AFI
African Fashion International (AFI) delivers on providing our discerning customers good quality, affordable, and authentic African clothing and accessories.
The story of AFI begins in 2007, as the global fashion industry began consciously correcting its lack of diversity. AFI entered the scene with a clear vision to create a platform where the best, most globally relevant and contemporary African designers will be discovered. AFI has since groomed and propelled local designers into global household names.
Story of House of Nala
House of Nala was created by African Fashion International to continue its objectives of propelling African luxury fashion designers onto the global stage. This curated selection of hand-woven accessories, beautiful textiles, earthy hues, and vibrant prints represent the rich flora and fauna of the African continent. The business of African fashion is sustainable and people-centred. House of Nala provides a vast selection of designs that are season-less and enduring of trends, encapsulating contemporary interpretations of African heritage and cultures that continue to inspire luxury lifestyles.