Call for Applications wlia@shareafrica.live January 24, 2026

Call for Applications: Africa Fashion Up 2026

The African fashion industry is constantly evolving, and a new culture is flourishing, driven by young designers eager to do things their own way. Most of these designers are based in Africa, and the quality and beauty of their creations rival those of designers around the world; however, they still need to make a name for themselves.

Africa Fashion UP invites young talents and the best African designers—selected by a specialized international committee—to present their creations at a fashion show dedicated to them in Paris.

Awards

The selected creators will receive the following awards:

  • An invitation to present their collection at the Africa Fashion Up fashion show during Paris Fashion Week,
  • International media coverage across all our social media channels and in our partner media outlets
  • Thematic master classes taught by experts from prestigious fashion houses
  • A series of exclusive tours that will allow them to immerse themselves in the heart of Parisian and international fashion 
  • Participation in a business training program offered by the highly renowned HEC business school 
  • A six-month mentoring support program
  • An opportunity to showcase and sell their collection on an international online marketplace

Terms and Conditions for Participation in Africa Fashion Up

Fashion Young Leader

  • To be a young fashion designer from Africa or the African diaspora
  • Be under 40 years old
  • Have designed at least two ready-to-wear collections for women, men, or unisex.
  • Have more than 2 years of experience or have been in business as a brand for 2 years
REGISTER Button

Best African Designer

  • ​​To be an African fashion designer or a fashion designer from the diaspora
  • Have designed at least two ready-to-wear collections for women, men, or unisex 
  • The creator must be a registered business
  • Have more than 2 years of experience or have been in business as a brand for 2 years
  • Have retailers who produce collections for in-store sale
  • Already have significant visibility and a strong presence on social media, etc.
REGISTER Button