The 5th edition of Africa Fashion Up concluded with a memorable evening on Thursday, June 26, confirming its status as a major event during Paris Fashion Week and an essential platform for emerging African talents. During a week punctuated by discoveries, exchanges and emotion, creators, experts, luxury houses and institutions gathered to celebrate the boldness and diversity of African fashion, through a rich program: masterclasses, pop-up store Africa Now at Galeries Lafayette, immersive tours, and a spectacular final parade at the Bridge – Pont Alexandre III.

By offering a real stage to these young talents, the event celebrates the creativity and innovation of the African continent, while affirming its ambition to structure and promote the African fashion industry on the international scene.
Among the 300 applications received this year, five committed creators were rewarded. The Ethiopian Hawi Midekssa distinguished herself by winning two major awards: the Prix Entrepreneuriat Féminin (Galeries Lafayette) and the Prix Best Designer Africa (Balenciaga), recognizing the creative power and bold vision of the young creator.

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The Jury’s Favorite Prize was awarded to Frank Aghuno (Fruché). The Eco-responsible Award was given to Peter Oshobor (Oshobor) and Samkelo Xaba (Boyde), for their commitment to sustainable fashion.
The Digital Creation Award (Orange Group) went to Cameroonian Fese Ndumbe-Eyoh (Eloli). This award is accompanied by enhanced strategic support in digital marketing and business structuring, intended to accelerate the brand’s influence internationally.

The show also presented the collections of Collé Ardo Sow, Algueye, Mina Binebine (2022 laureate) and Yoni Alousseni. Collé Ardo Sow, Algueye and Bandaman are also among the designers selected for sale at Galeries Lafayette. The evening ended with performances by Papi Del Sol, Hiro, La Team Paiya and Moh Green, named Best DJ Africa at the Trace Awards. A remarkable partnership has also been forged with Yanghe, who sponsored the gala dinner evening, symbolizing the union between Africa Fashion Up and Asia.