“Threads of Africa was curated in the spirit of coming together to celebrate a borderless Africa — the theme of this year’s festival,” said Ramatu Ujiri “Fashion has the unique ability to illustrate cultural backgrounds, which cannot be more beautifully exemplified than in African heritage. 

We are so proud to have been able to showcase just a few giants of African fashion today.”

Ms. Ujiri, who is a former model herself, walked the stage for the first time in 17 years.

Hosted by Rwandan entrepreneur Sonia Iraguha, also known as Lady Bicu, Threads of Africa spotlighted the work of three talented African fashion designers from a different region of the continent. Cameroon’s Hortense Mbea, Niger’s Alia Baré, and Rwanda and South Africa’s Nyambo Masamara presented their new collections.

Each designer had their collections worn by 16 models, including Giants of Africa alum, Hermes Iyele, The models were selected by Franco Kabano, Founder and Chairman of Webest Models.

Mbea was the first designer to model her Afropian brand, a collection curated to celebrate a powerful woman and man, living in communion with Nature.

 She was followed by Baré’s West Side Story, a collection unveiled at the Giants of Africa Festival and is in tribute to the resilience and adaptability of West African communities.

Masamara was the last to showcase his collection which represents a journey beyond borders, reflecting the festival’s theme.

The show also included performances from Rwanda’s own Alyn Sano and Nel Ngabo. Nigerian singer-songwriter and record producer, Tekno, made a surprise appearance to close the evening.