Sunday 20th of September 2026

Nairobi, Kenya

Tag: African Fashion

Jack Photography: Jackson Watenya on the Art of Creating Images With Intention

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Introduction

In Nairobi’s increasingly dynamic fashion and creative landscape, photography has become more than a means of documenting people, clothing and moments it has evolved into a language of its own. Jackson Watenya, the creative force behind Jack Photography, is part of a new generation of photographers exploring that language through fashion, portraiture and visual storytelling.

Based in Nairobi, Watenya approaches photography as a carefully constructed creative process, bringing together concept development, mood, lighting, composition, direction and post-production. His background in photo editing and retouching has informed an instinctive understanding of the finished image, while his experience behind the camera has allowed him to develop a more complete approach to visual creation.

His philosophy is rooted in intention: creating images that feel purposeful rather than accidental. Whether working with models, fashion creatives or clients, he sees each frame as part of a larger visual narrative. His ability to work creatively within different environments, including modest or unconventional spaces, has become an important part of his evolving aesthetic.

In this conversation with Nairobi Fashion Hub, Jackson Watenya reflects on his creative journey, the philosophy behind Jack Photography, his approach to fashion and portraiture, the importance of collaboration, and his ambitions for the future of photography in Kenya.

THE INTERVIEW

About You & Jack Photography

1. Tell us about yourself and the story behind Jack Photography. Who is Jackson Watenya beyond the camera?

I am a Nairobi-based photographer working across fashion, portraiture and weddings under the name Jack Photography. My journey began with a curiosity about light, composition and the ability of an image to transform an ordinary moment into something memorable.

My early experience in photo editing and retouching gave me a strong appreciation for the creative process, but photography allowed me to become involved in the entire journey from developing an idea and creating the image to shaping its final expression.

Beyond photography, I am naturally curious and solution-oriented. I enjoy finding creative ways to work with the environment, available light and resources, rather than waiting for perfect conditions. That mindset continues to influence how I approach every shoot.

2. What inspired you to pursue photography professionally, and when did you realize photography could become your career?

My foundation in retouching gave me an understanding of what makes an image visually compelling, but I eventually wanted to take greater ownership of the creative process.

Working with local models and creatives became an important turning point. It showed me that I could develop a concept, shape its visual direction and carry that idea through to a finished photograph. That experience helped me recognise photography not simply as an interest, but as a serious creative pursuit.

3. How would you describe Jack Photography to someone discovering your work for the first time?

Jack Photography is a visual storytelling practice centred around fashion, portraiture and wedding photography. I approach each project with intention, beginning with the concept and visual references before moving through production and final editing.

The aim is to create images that feel considered, directed and connected to a larger visual idea rather than simply documenting what happens in front of the camera.

4. What does photography mean to you personally, and what keeps you passionate about the craft?

Photography is, for me, one of the most powerful forms of storytelling without words. I am fascinated by the process of taking an idea that exists only conceptually and translating it into something tangible.

Collaboration also keeps the work exciting. When different creatives bring their perspectives and ideas into a project, the final result can become something greater than the original concept.

Creative Vision & Visual Storytelling

5. Your work spans fashion, portraits and weddings. What attracts you to these different forms of photography, and how do they complement each other?

Each genre offers a different creative language. Fashion gives me the freedom to explore concepts, direction and visual experimentation, while portraiture places greater emphasis on connection and individuality.

Wedding photography represents another dimension of storytelling, where emotion and authenticity become particularly important. I am currently continuing to develop my experience in this area while learning from established professionals.

6. You mentioned that your goal is to build a complete visual story from concept to final image. What does visual storytelling mean to you?

To me, visual storytelling means creating an image that suggests something beyond the frame. A strong photograph should communicate a mood, feeling or narrative that allows the viewer to imagine there is a larger story behind what they see.

The individual image becomes part of a broader visual experience.

7. You describe yourself as someone who does not simply capture a moment but directs one. How does directing a photograph influence the final result?

Direction gives an image intention. Rather than leaving every element to chance, I make considered decisions around posing, lighting, expression and environment.

That approach allows the final photograph to communicate a specific feeling and ensures that the visual outcome remains connected to the original concept.

8. Walk us through your creative process, from receiving a brief or developing an idea to delivering the final images.

The process usually begins with an idea—whether it comes from a client, model, collaborator or from my own creative direction. I then develop a moodboard to establish the overall visual language, including mood, styling and references.

From there, I consider the lighting and create a shot list to give the production structure. During the shoot, I test the setup and work through the planned direction while remaining open to unexpected moments.

The final stage involves carefully refining and retouching the images in a way that remains faithful to the original concept before delivering the finished work through an online gallery.

9. What role do lighting, composition, location, styling, posing and mood play in creating your visual style?

They are all interconnected. Lighting is particularly important to me because it can completely transform the atmosphere of an image, even when working with a relatively simple setup.

Location and composition help establish the visual foundation, while styling and posing are guided by the mood and story established during the conceptual stage. I like every element to feel as though it belongs to the same visual world.

10. How do you help clients, models or subjects feel comfortable and confident in front of your camera?

I believe confidence begins with communication. I involve collaborators early in the creative process so they understand the concept and know what to expect.

During the shoot, I give clear and specific direction rather than leaving people uncertain about how to pose or move. Creating that sense of clarity helps subjects relax and allows more natural moments to emerge.

11. Which photograph or project from your portfolio best represents your creative identity, and what is the story behind it?

One project that particularly represents my approach is a beauty portrait featuring two models with different skin tones. The concept was visually simple, but technically it required careful consideration of lighting and exposure to create balance between the subjects.

For me, the image represents the intersection of technical precision and simplicity. It demonstrates how a straightforward concept can become powerful when the lighting, composition and human connection are carefully considered.

12. How do you balance your creative vision with a client’s expectations when they have a different idea of the final look?

Communication is key. I often use reference images and moodboards to understand the feeling behind a client’s ideas rather than focusing only on individual images they may have saved.

Once the intended mood and direction are clear, it becomes easier to find a creative balance between the client’s expectations and the photographic approach.

 

Fashion, Portraits & Weddings

13. What do you enjoy most about photographing fashion and working with models, designers, stylists and other fashion creatives?

The collaborative nature of fashion photography is what I enjoy most. Every person involved contributes something different to the visual language of the project.

There is something particularly rewarding about watching those individual contributions come together and evolve into a complete image.

14. What makes a powerful fashion photograph, in your opinion, beyond simply showcasing clothing?

A powerful fashion photograph should communicate a story or atmosphere beyond the garment itself. Clothing is an important part of the image, but it becomes more compelling when it exists within a wider visual narrative.

The strongest fashion images allow styling, subject, environment, lighting and emotion to work together.

15. Portrait photography requires capturing personality and emotion. How do you create images that reveal the person behind the portrait?

I pay attention to the moments that happen beyond the formal pose. A natural expression, a genuine laugh or an unguarded glance can often reveal more than a perfectly directed pose.

Sometimes the most important part of a portrait session is simply creating enough space for conversation and connection so the subject can move beyond the feeling of performing for the camera.

16. Weddings are filled with important emotions and once-in-a-lifetime moments. How do you balance documentary storytelling with creative direction during a wedding?

Wedding photography is an area I am continuing to develop. My current approach is to gain practical experience alongside established wedding photographers, learning how to balance candid storytelling with the directed portraits and important moments that couples want preserved.

That experience is helping me understand the rhythm and responsibility that comes with documenting such significant occasions.

17. Is there a particular fashion shoot, portrait session or wedding that challenged you creatively or taught you an important lesson?

A duo editorial featuring two models with different skin tones was particularly valuable creatively. It challenged me to reconsider my lighting approach and find a way to create balance while preserving detail and dimension across both subjects.

It reinforced the importance of adapting technique to the people and circumstances within the frame rather than relying on a single formula.

18. How do you think photography contributes to the growth and visibility of Nairobi and Kenya’s fashion and creative industry?

Photography has the ability to take a creative idea beyond the physical space where it was created. A powerful image can introduce a designer, model, event or creative movement to audiences who were never present.

In that sense, photography plays an important role in documenting, promoting and giving visibility to Kenya’s creative culture.

Business, Growth & The Future

19. What challenges have you experienced building and running a photography brand in Nairobi, and how have you overcome them?

The journey has taught me to work creatively with what is available. In the early stages, I worked with simple environments and limited resources rather than waiting for ideal conditions.

Those limitations encouraged me to become more resourceful and ultimately influenced the way I approach locations and visual concepts. As opportunities developed, I gradually expanded my access to equipment and professional spaces while also putting stronger business structures in place, including contracts, invoicing and a more formal portfolio.

20. How important are social media and digital platforms such as Instagram in building a photography brand and attracting clients today?

They are extremely important. Instagram, in particular, has played a significant role in connecting me with models, creatives and opportunities within the industry.

It has become a space where the work can speak for itself and where potential collaborators and clients can discover the photographer behind the images.

21. Where do you see Jack Photography in the next five years, and what kind of creative projects or clients would you like to attract?

I would like Jack Photography to become an established name within Nairobi’s editorial and fashion photography scene, recognised for a distinctive and consistent visual identity.

I hope to work increasingly with designers, brands and fashion events, while expanding into more commercial and catalogue-oriented photography. I also look forward to building stronger relationships within the events industry and, with the right experience, eventually taking on full wedding coverage.

22. How can photographers and other creative professionals collaborate more effectively to create stronger visual stories and opportunities within Kenya’s creative industry?

The industry becomes stronger when creatives create opportunities for one another. Photographers, models, designers, makeup artists and event organisers can build a more connected ecosystem by sharing networks, introducing one another to opportunities and approaching collaborations with a collective mindset.

Some of my strongest work has emerged when everyone involved is invested in the same creative vision rather than focusing only on their individual contribution.

BONUS QUESTIONS

Who would you love to collaborate with in Kenya or internationally photographers, designers, models, brands, artists or creative directors and what would you hope to create together?

I would particularly love to collaborate with established Kenyan fashion designers on a fully developed editorial campaign projects where the photography, fashion and creative direction can come together as one cohesive visual story.

If you could photograph one person, fashion collection, wedding, campaign or cultural moment anywhere in the world, what would you choose and why?

I would love to photograph a major East African Fashion Week runway show, capturing the complete experience rather than only what happens on the runway from the anticipation backstage to the creative energy surrounding the final reveal.

What is one photography or creative-industry misconception you would like to change?

One misconception I would like to challenge is the belief that serious photography requires an expensive studio or the most advanced equipment.

Creativity, vision and the ability to work intentionally with available resources can be just as important as the equipment itself.

As we conclude, what is your parting message or advice to aspiring photographers and young creatives who want to turn their passion into a profession?

Start before you feel ready.

Jackson Watenya — Jack Photography

Based in: Nairobi, Kenya
Specialisations: Fashion Photography | Portrait Photography | Wedding Photography
Instagram: @jack__photography1
Portfolio: Jack Photography / Pixieset

Selected Creative Credits:
@cynthiajuma_ · @fridah_gatheru · @hymynameis_lela

Editorial Closing

For Jackson Watenya, the photograph is never simply the final frame. It is the culmination of an idea, a conversation, a creative decision and a willingness to see possibility in the ordinary. Through Jack Photography, he is building a visual practice shaped by intention, collaboration and an evolving understanding of contemporary fashion and portraiture.

From Nairobi, his ambition is clear: to create imagery that does more than capture attention to tell stories, elevate creative talent and leave a lasting visual impression.

Content Courtesy of Jackson Watenya and NFH Digital Team 

Creative DNA at Africa Fashion Week London 2026: 10 African Designers Shaping Global Fashion

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Creative DNA at Africa Fashion Week London 2026: Ten African Designers Take Their Place on the Global Fashion Stage

By Nairobi Fashion Hub

London is once again preparing to become a meeting point for African creativity and the international fashion industry as the British Council returns to Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) 2026 with a new cohort of ten Creative DNA designers, continuing a partnership that began in 2025.

Scheduled for 17–24 August 2026, the collaboration places emerging designers from across Africa at the centre of a week dedicated not only to fashion, but to the wider questions of creative enterprise, cultural exchange, technology and access to global markets. Events will take place at 8 Northumberland Avenue and the British Council Headquarters in London.

The initiative represents a significant continuation of the British Council’s investment in Africa’s creative economy. Rather than positioning African fashion simply as a source of visual inspiration, Creative DNA is designed to help emerging designers develop the connections, knowledge and commercial opportunities required to build sustainable businesses and participate meaningfully in the international fashion system.

From African Creative Talent to Global Opportunity

The renewed partnership builds on the success of the British Council’s first collaboration with AFWL in 2025, which introduced ten Creative DNA alumni and participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Uganda and Kenya to London audiences.

For 2026, the programme returns with a refreshed cohort and an expanded platform for engagement, bringing together designers whose practices reflect the breadth and complexity of contemporary African fashion.

At its heart, Creative DNA is concerned with what happens beyond the runway.

The programme seeks to move designers from creative development towards market access, entrepreneurship and international collaboration. Through masterclasses, panel discussions, exhibitions and industry engagement, participants are being given opportunities to explore the commercial realities of fashion while connecting with buyers, media professionals and influential figures within the global industry.

This approach reflects a broader shift in how African fashion is being positioned internationally: not simply as a cultural story to be observed, but as a dynamic creative economy capable of generating businesses, intellectual property, employment and global influence.

Farai Ncube Tarwireyi, Regional Arts Director, Africa at the British Council, describes the philosophy behind the programme as a journey “from skills to markets”, with an emphasis on sustainable enterprise, equitable partnerships and enabling African designers to influence the global fashion narrative on their own terms.

Meet the Creative DNA 2026 Cohort

The 2026 Creative DNA cohort represents a particularly broad geographical and creative spectrum, bringing together ten designers from Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe and Ghana.

The designers are:

  • Bettydora Odhiambo — Atieno Studio, Kenya
  • Adedayo Ilori — Dimeji Ilori, Nigeria
  • Joan Nantege — Joan Jade, Uganda
  • Mastewal Belay — Mastewal Alemu, Ethiopia
  • Maurice Niyigena — Matheo Studio, Rwanda
  • Neema Nkatha Kinoti — Ohana Swimwear, Kenya
  • Chido Kaseke — Patch Maoko, Zimbabwe
  • Nyame-Nhyiraba Awura — Republic of Africa, Ghana
  • Ropafadzo Kuki Mapira — Soleil, Zimbabwe
  • Solome Kiflu — Xufan, Ethiopia.

Together, they represent different perspectives on what African fashion can be. Their work spans tailoring, eveningwear, swimwear and heritage-inspired design, reflecting a generation of creatives drawing from local craft traditions while simultaneously engaging with international aesthetics, markets and audiences.

That diversity is arguably one of the programme’s greatest strengths. There is no single definition of African fashion represented on the Creative DNA runway. Instead, the cohort demonstrates how contemporary designers can draw from different histories, environments and cultural references while developing distinctly individual creative identities.

A Runway With a Purpose

For the participating designers, the London presentation is more than a conventional fashion showcase.

The British Council’s presence at AFWL 2026 will include a dedicated runway presentation and exhibition pavilion, creating opportunities for the designers to place their collections directly before international buyers, press and fashion-industry professionals.

This connection between visibility and business is crucial.

For many emerging fashion brands, creative talent alone is not enough to establish a sustainable international business. Designers also require access to buyers, distribution networks, strategic partnerships, media exposure, investment, mentorship and a deeper understanding of international markets.

Creative DNA attempts to bridge that gap.

Its model is built around access, collaboration and knowledge exchange, giving participants an environment in which creative development can intersect with entrepreneurship and international business.

Fashion, Technology and the Questions Shaping Tomorrow

The programme also looks beyond traditional fashion conversations.

Participants will engage in masterclasses and panel discussions examining current industry trends and the future of fashion, with themes including “Control Beyond Borders,” African fashion in higher education, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI).

These conversations arrive at a particularly important moment for the global fashion industry.

Technology is transforming how fashion is designed, marketed, produced and consumed, while artificial intelligence is creating new possibilities and new questions around creativity, authorship, education and commercialisation.

For African designers seeking greater international visibility, these developments offer both opportunities and challenges. The Creative DNA programme’s decision to place AI and the future of fashion within its educational agenda signals an awareness that the next generation of designers will need to operate across increasingly digital and interconnected creative economies.

Reframing Africa’s Place in Global Fashion

The significance of Creative DNA at AFWL 2026 extends beyond the ten participating labels.

It forms part of a wider effort to strengthen connections between African and British creative industries while creating pathways for emerging African talent to enter international markets.

The British Council says the partnership is intended to foster cross-cultural learning, collaboration and business growth between the UK and Africa’s creative economy, while providing designers with international connections and access to new markets.

That ambition is particularly relevant to Africa’s fashion industry, where a new generation of designers is increasingly building brands that combine heritage, contemporary design and entrepreneurial thinking.

The international conversation around African fashion has also evolved. The continent is no longer being presented solely through the lens of tradition or cultural heritage. African designers are increasingly participating in conversations about luxury, sustainability, technology, retail, craftsmanship, identity and global consumer culture.

Creative DNA sits within that changing landscape.

Africa Fashion Week London: A Global Platform

The partnership also gains significance from AFWL’s established role in the international fashion calendar.

Founded in 2011 by Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, Africa Fashion Week London was created to increase the visibility, awareness and sustainability of African and Black fashion brands through catwalk showcases, exhibitions and education. According to the organisation, it has hosted 3,000 emerging designers and exhibitors from Africa, Europe and America and welcomed approximately 90,000 visitors, including buyers, retailers and industry professionals.

AFWL describes itself as the world’s largest and longest-running showcase of African and African-inspired fashion and design, having organised 14 editions of catwalk and exhibition events alongside participation in and curation of other major fashion events.

Against that backdrop, the Creative DNA runway provides the 2026 cohort with a platform that combines cultural visibility with industry access.

A New Generation Writing Its Own Fashion Narrative

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Creative DNA 2026 is the idea that African designers should not have to wait for international recognition to define their relevance.

The programme is built around creating conditions in which designers can grow their businesses, establish meaningful international relationships and contribute to the fashion conversation from positions of creative and commercial agency.

The ten designers arriving in London therefore represent more than a collection of emerging labels. They embody a broader generation of African fashion entrepreneurs navigating a global industry on their own terms.

From Atieno Studio in Kenya to Dimeji Ilori in Nigeria, Joan Jade in Uganda, Mastewal Alemu in Ethiopia, Matheo Studio in Rwanda, Ohana Swimwear in Kenya, Patch Maoko and Soleil in Zimbabwe, Republic of Africa in Ghana, and Xufan in Ethiopia, the cohort presents a fashion landscape that is geographically diverse, culturally grounded and increasingly outward-looking.

As Creative DNA returns to Africa Fashion Week London, its message is ultimately larger than a single runway.

It is about building bridges between talent and opportunity, heritage and innovation, creativity and enterprise, Africa and the world.

And in London this August, ten designers will have the opportunity to make that connection visible one collection at a time.

Photo credit: Daniel Kempf-Seifried Photography

Content Courtesy of Creative DNA AFWL & NFH Digital Team 

The Runway That Remembered: How Nairobi’s Global Fusion Fashion Show Reimagined Fashion as Cultural Memory

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

On a luminous August evening in Nairobi, the runway became a passport to the world. At the Global Fusion Fashion Show 2026, emerging East African designers transformed fashion into a powerful act of cultural storytelling, weaving together history, heritage, and contemporary design with remarkable sophistication. Hosted by Delight Fashion School at the elegant Iconic Plaza Hotel, the event proved that fashion can transcend borders while preserving the identities that make every culture unique. From a commanding Benin-inspired tribute to the legendary Dahomey Women Warriors to refined interpretations of Indian and Vietnamese heritage, the evening marked a defining moment for Africa’s next generation of fashion voices.

By African Fashion Magazine NFH

NAIROBI, KENYA — On an evening washed in amber light and anticipation, the ballroom of Iconic Plaza Hotel ceased to be a hotel ballroom. It became a cartography of cultures. Silk whispered beside hand-finished cotton; sculptural tailoring met ancestral symbolism; drums, strings, and footsteps converged in a choreography that felt less like a fashion show and more like a collective act of remembrance.

 

This was the Global Fusion Fashion Show 2026, the third annual edition hosted by Delight Fashion School, and it arrived in Nairobi not merely as another runway event, but as a persuasive argument for what fashion can become when it is rooted in history rather than novelty.

 

For one extraordinary night, nine emerging designer groups transformed the runway into a living archive of world cultures. Their collections were not presented as costumes or borrowed aesthetics; they were offered as researched, interpreted, and emotionally charged narratives. In an industry often criticised for consuming culture faster than it understands it, the show proposed a different model: fashion as dialogue, fashion as scholarship, fashion as respect.

 

The result was one of the most compelling emerging-fashion showcases in East Africa this year.

 

A City Becoming a Fashion Capital

Nairobi has long been a city of movement of commerce, migration, music, technology, and ideas. Increasingly, it is also becoming a city of fashion. The Global Fusion Fashion Show arrived at a moment when African creative industries are demanding not just visibility but authorship in global fashion conversations.

 

What distinguished the evening was its refusal to imitate the established fashion capitals. Instead, it leaned into Nairobi’s greatest strength: its ability to convene multiple cultural worlds at once. Students, industry professionals, editors, stylists, photographers, entrepreneurs, and families filled the venue, creating an audience that reflected the democratic energy of contemporary African fashion.

 

The atmosphere was electric, but it was also attentive. People were watching not only for beauty, but for meaning.

 

The Collection That Stopped the Room

The evening’s highest honour went to a Benin-inspired collection dedicated to the Dahomey Women Warriors, the legendary all-female military regiment of the Kingdom of Dahomey in present-day Benin. Popular culture has only recently begun to acknowledge these women; history, however, has long recorded their discipline, strategic brilliance, and extraordinary courage.

The winning designers understood that such a subject could not be approached superficially.

 

Their garments carried architectural precision: structured shoulders suggesting armour without literal replication, layered textiles evoking protection and movement, and a restrained palette punctuated by commanding accents. Yet the true power of the collection emerged in performance. The models advanced with ceremonial authority, their pacing measured, their formations deliberate. What unfolded was not simply a runway walk; it was a visual meditation on female power, memory, and resistance.

 

The audience responded first with silence the rarest form of runway attention before erupting into sustained applause.

 

One judge later described the presentation as “fashion with historical conscience,” an assessment that captured why it prevailed. The collection succeeded not only because it was beautifully made, but because it treated its source material with gravity and imagination.

 

In that moment, the runway became a site of historical recovery.

India in Contemporary Light

The second-place collection, inspired by India, offered a strikingly different emotional register. Where the Benin presentation was ceremonial and forceful, the Indian collection was luminous.

Saffron, emerald, ruby, and ivory appeared in fluid conversation across contemporary silhouettes that hinted at sari drapes, classical ornamentation, and architectural tailoring without reproducing them literally. The designers demonstrated an impressive understanding of proportion and movement, allowing garments to glide rather than merely occupy space.

What impressed the judging panel most was the collection’s balance: it honoured Indian aesthetic traditions while speaking fluently to a modern global wardrobe. It felt neither nostalgic nor trend-driven; it felt current.

 

Vietnam and the Elegance of Restraint

The Vietnam-inspired collection, awarded third place, was perhaps the evening’s quietest triumph. Drawing inspiration from the graceful lines of the Áo Dài, the designers explored elongation, balance, and softness with remarkable discipline.

 

In a fashion climate often dominated by spectacle, the collection argued for the sophistication of restraint. Fabrics moved with almost liquid ease, silhouettes remained refined, and detailing was handled with extraordinary care. The presentation demonstrated that subtlety, when executed with confidence, can command as much attention as extravagance.

It was a lesson many established designers would do well to remember.

 

Beyond Competition: The Real Story

To focus solely on the winners would be to miss the larger achievement of the evening.

 

The Global Fusion Fashion Show functioned as an educational and professional incubator. Emerging designers were required to research cultural histories, study textile traditions, and consider the ethics of interpretation before translating those insights into contemporary design. In doing so, the event challenged a generation of young creatives to move beyond aesthetic sampling toward informed cultural engagement.

This is significant.

Across the global fashion industry, debates about cultural appropriation, representation, and authorship have intensified. Delight Fashion School’s approach suggests a productive path forward: curiosity paired with accountability. The show demonstrated that cross-cultural inspiration need not erase origins; it can illuminate them.

 

Fashion as a Collective Art Form

The evening’s success also depended on an ecosystem of collaborators. Iconic Plaza Hotel provided a setting of understated elegance.

Vuvu Africa managed guest experience and logistics with precision. The ADEA Team orchestrated backstage operations, where the real-time pressures of dressing, styling, and sequencing require military efficiency.

Beauty services by Allso Make Up enhanced each collection’s visual language without overwhelming it, while media partners including Poha Media, NC The Best Media, Nairobi Fashion Hub and Delight Studios Media ensured that the event’s cultural message travelled beyond the venue.

 

Such partnerships are often relegated to footnotes, yet they are the invisible architecture of every successful fashion production.

The Judges and the Question of Merit

Fashion competitions frequently struggle with credibility. Here, the presence of judges Kavulani, D.K, and Eva Wambutu all respected figures within the regional fashion landscape lent the process unusual authority.

 

Collections were assessed across multiple criteria: creativity, craftsmanship, originality, cultural interpretation, innovation, and runway presentation. The emphasis on both technical execution and intellectual engagement reinforced the show’s central thesis: fashion excellence is multidimensional.

A beautiful garment is not enough. It must also know what it is saying.

Why This Matters Beyond Nairobi

The significance of the Global Fusion Fashion Show extends beyond a single event or institution. It speaks to a broader transformation underway across African fashion.

 

For decades, African designers were too often positioned as sources of inspiration rather than as creators of globally relevant fashion discourse. Events like this challenge that hierarchy. They present East African designers not as participants on the margins, but as authors shaping contemporary fashion’s future.

 

The show also highlights an economic truth. Creative industries thrive when emerging talent receives visibility, mentorship, and professional exposure. By creating a platform where students can present ambitious work before industry stakeholders, Delight Fashion School is investing not only in individual careers but in the region’s creative economy.

 

A New Fashion Vocabulary

As the final models exited and the lights softened, what lingered was not a single look but a feeling: that something important had occurred.

The Global Fusion Fashion Show 2026 proposed a new vocabulary for fashion in East Africa one that values research alongside creativity, cultural literacy alongside craftsmanship, and storytelling alongside spectacle. It suggested that the future of fashion may belong not to those who chase the fastest trend, but to those who can translate memory into form.

 

In an age of accelerated consumption, that is a radical proposition.

 

The evening closed with congratulations, photographs, and celebration. Yet its most enduring image may be the procession of the Dahomey-inspired collection moving through the runway with unwavering dignity, reminding everyone in the room that fashion can do more than decorate the present.

It can remember.

And when fashion remembers, it becomes art.

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Content Courtesy of Delight Fashion School & NFH Digital Team 

Delight Fashion School Shines at 3rd Global Fusion Fashion Show as Benin-Inspired Collection Takes Top Honour

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Nairobi came alive with colour, culture, and creativity as Delight Fashion School hosted its 3rd Annual Global Fusion Fashion Show 2026 at the elegant Iconic Plaza Hotel. The highly anticipated event brought together emerging designers, industry leaders, models, students, and fashion enthusiasts for an unforgettable celebration of global heritage and contemporary design. More than a fashion show, the evening highlighted the power of fashion as a universal language that preserves cultural identity, tells meaningful stories, and inspires the next generation of East African fashion talent. The showcase reached its climax when a striking Benin-inspired collection honouring the legendary Dahomey Women Warriors was crowned the overall winner, reaffirming the growing influence of culturally driven African fashion on the global stage.

Nairobi, Kenya – August 3, 2026

Delight Fashion School marked a major milestone in fashion education and cultural celebration during its 3rd Annual Global Fusion Fashion Show, held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the prestigious Iconic Plaza Hotel in Nairobi. The highly anticipated event brought together emerging designers, fashion industry professionals, models, students, media personalities, and fashion lovers for an inspiring evening dedicated to creativity, heritage, and innovation.

The show highlighted the transformative power of fashion as a universal language capable of preserving cultural identity while connecting people across borders. Through striking runway presentations and compelling storytelling, the event demonstrated that fashion is far more than clothing it is a celebration of history, identity, and artistic expression.

International Design Competition Showcases Emerging Talent

A key feature of the evening was a competitive showcase involving nine designer groups, each presenting collections inspired by different countries and cultural traditions from around the world. The young designers impressed audiences with imaginative interpretations that blended traditional influences with contemporary fashion aesthetics.

 

The collections were evaluated by a respected panel of judges Kavulani, D.K, and Eva Wambutu who assessed the entries based on creativity, craftsmanship, originality, innovation, cultural interpretation, and runway execution. The competition revealed the impressive depth of emerging fashion talent in Kenya and reinforced East Africa’s growing reputation as a centre for culturally inspired fashion design.

Benin-Inspired Collection Crowned Overall Winner

 

The evening’s highest honour was awarded to a remarkable collection inspired by Benin, which paid tribute to the legendary Dahomey Women Warriors, the celebrated female military force of West Africa known for their bravery, discipline, and resilience.

The winning designers captivated both the judges and the audience with meticulously crafted garments that reflected strong cultural authenticity and exceptional attention to detail. Their presentation stood out not only for its technical excellence but also for its powerful narrative. Through choreography, styling, and visual storytelling, the collection brought the history and spirit of the Dahomey warriors vividly to life.

Judges praised the collection for going beyond fashion and serving as a meaningful artistic tribute to an important chapter of African history, demonstrating how contemporary design can preserve and celebrate cultural heritage.

India and Vietnam Collections Also Receive Top Recognition

Second place went to the India-inspired collection, which impressed the panel with its rich colour palette, elegant silhouettes, and sophisticated interpretation of Indian cultural aesthetics. The designers successfully merged traditional Indian elements with modern fashion sensibilities, producing garments that felt both authentic and contemporary.

 

Third place was awarded to the Vietnam-inspired collection, recognised for its refined craftsmanship, graceful runway presentation, and respectful engagement with Vietnamese textile traditions and design principles.

 

The winning teams received cash prizes of KES 20,000, KES 17,000, and KES 15,000 respectively, along with gift hampers provided by event partners.

Celebrating Cultural Fusion Through Fashion

Presented under the theme “Celebrating Cultural Fusion,” the event emphasized fashion’s unique ability to connect cultures while honouring the distinct traditions that shape them. Rather than blending cultures into uniformity, the show demonstrated that the most compelling fashion emerges when designers engage deeply with historical narratives, craftsmanship, and cultural meaning.

For emerging designers, the Global Fusion Fashion Show provided invaluable exposure to professional runway standards, industry networking opportunities, and a platform to build confidence and visibility within the fashion sector.

A Vibrant Audience and Immersive Runway Experience

The event attracted a diverse audience that included fashion students, designers, industry stakeholders, corporate partners, families, media representatives, and invited guests. The atmosphere throughout the evening was energetic and celebratory, reflecting strong appreciation for the designers’ creativity and the cultural significance of their work.

 

Guests enjoyed runway presentations that incorporated choreography, music, and artistic performance elements, creating an immersive experience that elevated the event beyond a conventional fashion show.

Strong Partnerships Behind the Event’s Success

Delight Fashion School acknowledged the contribution of several strategic partners whose support was instrumental to the success of the event.

Iconic Plaza Hotel provided the elegant venue.

Vuvu Africa handled ushering and guest management services.

The ADEA Team from Rombo coordinated backstage dressing and runway logistics.

Media coverage was provided by University Vibes, Poha Media, NC The Best Media, Delight Studios Media, Nairobi Fashion Hub and other independent media houses.

Allso Make Up delivered professional beauty services for the models.

Ivy the Bridal Books & Gifts sponsored gifts and awards.

Freebis offered additional event support.

Their combined efforts helped create a polished and professional production that matched the high standards of the participating designers.

Judges Commended for Fair and Professional Evaluation

The judging panel was praised for its professionalism and commitment to nurturing emerging talent. With extensive industry experience,  Kavulani, D.K, and Eva Wambutu ensured that the competition results reflected genuine excellence in design, craftsmanship, and cultural engagement.

 

In addition to the main competition awards, several special recognitions were presented for leadership, modelling excellence, and audience participation, acknowledging the many individuals who contributed to the success of the event.

Organisers Reaffirm Commitment to Fashion Education

 

Following the successful conclusion of the show, Delight Fashion School reaffirmed its dedication to developing the next generation of fashion professionals through practical industry exposure and culturally grounded design education.

Organisers noted that the event demonstrated fashion’s power to preserve culture, inspire creativity, and unite communities, while also showcasing the potential of East African designers on the global stage.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Building on the success of the 2026 edition, Delight Fashion School announced plans to expand the Global Fusion Fashion Show into one of East Africa’s premier platforms for emerging designers, cultural exchange, and fashion innovation. Future editions are expected to feature enhanced production, broader competition categories, and increased opportunities for international participation and recognition.

About Delight Fashion School

Delight Fashion School is a leading fashion training institution committed to developing skilled, innovative, and industry-ready fashion professionals through practical education, creative mentorship, and meaningful engagement with the fashion industry. Through initiatives such as the Global Fusion Fashion Show, the school provides students with real-world experience that helps them develop their creative voice, professional networks, and career opportunities within the fashion sector.

 

Media Contact

Delight Fashion School

Website: http://www.delight.ac.ke

Email: info@delight.ac.ke

Telephone: 0722 533 771

Content Courtesy of Delight Fashion School & NFH Digital Team

The Carbon-Conscious Catwalk: How Nairobi Fashion Week Season 8 is Redefining Global Luxury

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The Carbon-Conscious Catwalk: How Nairobi Fashion Week Season 8 is Redefining Global Luxury

NAIROBI, Kenya — From January 28 to 31, 2026, the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi will transcend its role as a premier exhibition space to become a crucible for the future of the global garment industry. Nairobi Fashion Week (NFW) Season 8 arrives at a critical juncture for the fashion world, trading traditional runway spectacle for a rigorous, urgent mandate: “Decarbonize.”

As the global fashion industry faces intensifying pressure to reduce its massive environmental footprint—currently projected to account for 25% of the global carbon budget by 2050—Nairobi is not merely participating in the conversation. It is leading it. Under the stewardship of Creative Director Brian Kihindas, NFW is positioning Kenya’s capital as the “Unquestioned Sustainable Fashion Capital” of the continent.

A Blueprint for Responsible Glamour

Season 8 is designed to dismantle the myth that sustainability requires the sacrifice of style. The theme, Decarbonize, serves as an operational directive, challenging designers to interrogate every link in their supply chain—from raw material extraction to the final stitch.

“Season 8 is a continuation of the intent we established last year,” says Brian Kihindas, Creative Director of Nairobi Fashion Week. “Decarbonize is our call to action. It asks designers and audiences alike to rethink how fashion is consumed. We are celebrating creativity that ho1nors both the person and the planet, merging luxury with a clean conscience.”

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The four-day event will feature a sophisticated mix of high-octane runway shows, curated retail marketplaces, and industry-led panel discussions. These “Circular Conversations” will address the logistical realities of zero-waste production, ethical labor, and the “Green Premium” in African luxury.

The Designers: A Cross-Continental Dialogue

NFW Season 8 serves as a porous border for creative exchange, uniting a diverse cohort of Kenyan and international designers whose brand DNAs are rooted in intentionality.

The Local Vanguard (Kenya)

  • Maisha by Nisria: A pioneer in upcycled textiles, transforming discarded fabrics into avant-garde statements.

  • Studio Lola: Celebrated for minimalist tailoring and contemporary silhouettes that champion the “slow fashion” movement.

  • VAST: Combining architectural, sculptural cuts with West African handwoven textiles.

  • A Touch of Kenya & Kitu Kidzo: Both labels serve as cultural archivists, weaving ancestral storytelling into modern, wearable art.

  • Molivian: A bridge between high-fashion artisanal detail and ready-to-wear functionality.

The International Collective

  • Naaniya (France): Merging Malian heritage textiles with European minimalist design.

  • Yevaàna (Sri Lanka/Kenya): Focused on texture-driven elegance and eco-conscious fabrics.

  • Wanni Fuga (Nigeria): Fusing bold, refined prints with cultural identity and feminine poise.

  • Bizarre Savage Couture (Germany): Exploring the intersection of avant-garde couture and environmental responsibility.

  • Aci Nod (USA): Championing conceptual, expressive fashion that pushes the boundaries of materiality.

Beyond the Runway: A City Setting Its Own Pace

Unlike the frantic cycles of Paris or Milan, Nairobi Fashion Week is consciously setting a different tempo—one defined by durability over disposability. By prioritizing craft over noise, the event has attracted global partners like Pernod Ricard’s Martell, further signaling the commercial viability of sustainable luxury.

The showcase arrives as Nairobi hosts the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters, creating a unique synergy between policy and pop culture. As African fashion enters a new era of global influence, Season 8 stands as a testament that the most fashionable thing a brand can wear in 2026 is responsibility.

At a Glance: NFW Season 8

  • Dates: January 28 – 31, 2026

  • Venue: Sarit Expo Centre, Nairobi, Kenya

  • Theme: Decarbonize

  • Focus: Sustainable luxury, circularity, and Pan-African trade.

Content courtesy of Nairobi Fashion Week & NFH Digital Team

Stitching the Sun: Nairobi’s Radical Rebirth as the Global Capital of Conscious Couture

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

Stitching the Sun: Nairobi’s Radical Rebirth as the Global Capital of Conscious Couture

NAIROBI, KENYA — As the equatorial sun scales the glass spires of the “Green City in the Sun,” a transformation is taking place. This is no longer just a regional hub; it is the heartbeat of a global movement. From January 28–31, 2026, the world’s eyes turn to Nairobi Fashion Week (NFW), an event that promises to redefine luxury through the lens of heritage, sustainability, and soul.

In a world weary of fast-fashion cycles, Nairobi offers an antidote: Stitching the Sun. This year’s theme is a dialogue between the city’s lush, leafy sanctuaries—like the whispering Karura Forest—and the sharp, innovative minds within its ateliers.

The New Vanguard: Where Heritage Meets High-Fashion

NFW 2026 isn’t just a series of runways; it is a curated ecosystem of narratives. The lineup features a sophisticated blend of Kenyan stalwarts and international visionaries who treat fabric as a vessel for culture.

The Global Collective

  • Wanni Fuga (Nigeria): Bringing Lagosian luxury to the Nairobi stage, expect refined minimalism and silhouettes that redefine purposeful femininity.

  • Naaniya (France): A bridge between worlds, Naaniya utilizes ancestral Malian techniques to create contemporary pieces that have already caught the eye of the Parisian elite.

  • Yevaàne (Sri Lanka/Kenya): A cross-cultural powerhouse weaving sustainable designs that reflect a nomadic, thoughtful aesthetic.

The Homegrown Innovators

Kenya’s own designers continue to push the boundaries of “regenerative luxury.”

  • Studio Lola: The women-led atelier remains the gold standard for “slow fashion,” producing handmade, fair-trade garments that are as soulful as they are chic.

  • Maisha by Nisria: A masterclass in up-cycling, turning discarded textiles into socially conscious garments that demand a place in any modern wardrobe.

  • The MOYO Store & VAST: Both labels celebrate the raw beauty of African prints and organic linens, proving that ethical production is the ultimate status symbol.

A City of Visionaries

The “Nairobi Sound” in fashion has been tuned by a community of icons. The presence of pioneers like Deepa Dosaja, Anna Trzebinski, and Kiko Romeo has laid the foundation for a city that now leads the continent in sustainable luxury.

This year’s event also celebrates the architects of the African fashion image: stylists and creative directors like Sunny Dolat, Diana Opoti, and Brian Babu. Their artistry has ensured that the “Nairobi look”—a blend of bold prints, architectural silhouettes, and ethical craftsmanship—is recognized from the streets of Kilimani to the pages of international glossies.

“Sustainability is not a tagline here; it is a living ethos. It’s a rhythm that runs through our studios and our streets.” — NFW Communication Team

Beyond the Runway: A Cultural Rendezvous

Nairobi Fashion Week 2026 extends far beyond the “catwalk.” The four-day event is designed as a multi-sensory experience:

  1. The Dialogue Panels: Discussions on the future of regenerative textiles and the circular economy.

  2. Curated Retail Spaces: A “see-now, buy-now” opportunity for patrons to invest in pieces that carry the “Made in Kenya” seal of excellence.

  3. The Environment: Set against backdrops that mirror the city’s duality—from the urban pulse of Uhuru Park to the serene greenery of its private gardens.

Event Details

  • Date: 28–31 January 2026

  • Location: Nairobi, Kenya

  • Digital Hub: nairobifashionweek.org

  • Socials: @Nairobi.fashion.week (Instagram) | The Nairobi Fashion WEEK (Facebook)

Nairobi Fashion Week is more than a date on the calendar; it is a testament to a city whose heartbeat is boldly, beautifully African. Every seam is a story, and every design is an invitation to join the conversation.

Content courtesy of Nairobi Fashion Week & NFH Digital Team

The Green Thread: Nairobi’s Bold Bid to Become Africa’s Sustainable Fashion Capital

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The Green Thread: Nairobi’s Bold Bid to Become Africa’s Sustainable Fashion Capital

NAIROBI, Kenya — As the global fashion industry grapples with its environmental footprint, a new vanguard of style is rising from the heart of East Africa. From January 28–31, 2026, the eighth edition of Nairobi Fashion Week (NFW) will transform the Kenyan capital into a high-octane laboratory for climate-conscious design.

Under the urgent banner of “DECARBONIZE,” this year’s event is more than a showcase of aesthetics; it is a manifesto for the future of global luxury. Nairobi is no longer just participating in the fashion conversation—it is leading it.

A Continental Shift: From Fast Fashion to Circularity

For decades, the global North has looked to Africa as a source of raw materials or a destination for textile waste. Nairobi Fashion Week 2026 is flipping that narrative. By centering circular design and upcycling, Kenyan designers are proving that heritage craftsmanship can provide the blueprint for a low-carbon economy.

The 2026 season highlights a sophisticated blend of:

  • Ethical Production: Small-batch “slow fashion” that prioritizes living wages and community-driven craftsmanship.

  • Climate-Smart Materials: Innovation in organic fibers and regenerative textiles that reduce the industry’s water and carbon footprints.

  • The Upcycling Revolution: Transforming existing materials into high-fashion silhouettes, a movement that has become a hallmark of the Nairobi creative collective.

The “Decarbonize” Movement

The theme of this year’s showcase, DECARBONIZE, reflects a deepening commitment to the United Nations’ climate goals. As Kenya’s creative economy gains unprecedented global visibility, NFW serves as a critical platform for designers who are reconciling bold African creativity with environmental responsibility.

“Nairobi is positioning itself as the pulse of the green movement,” says one industry insider. “We are seeing a fusion of cultural authenticity and radical innovation that challenges the very definition of how clothing is made and consumed.”

Why the World is Watching

Nairobi’s ascent comes at a pivotal moment. With international buyers and editors increasingly looking for “guilt-free luxury,” Kenya’s unique positioning—blending traditional artisanal techniques with modern, eco-conscious technology—makes it a formidable player on the world stage.

Now in its eighth season, Nairobi Fashion Week has evolved from a local runway into a continental powerhouse. It is a space where the “Nairobi look”—vibrant, conscious, and unapologetically African—is being codified for a global audience.

Event Details

  • Dates: January 28 – 31, 2026

  • Location: Nairobi, Kenya

  • Theme: DECARBONIZE

Nairobi Fashion Week 2026 invites the world to witness a cleaner, more conscious, and future-ready fashion landscape. In the streets of Nairobi, the future isn’t just being designed; it’s being sewn with a green thread.

Content courtesy of Nairobi Fashion Week & NFH Digital Team

The Great Green Transition: Inside Nairobi Fashion Week’s Radical “Decarbonize” Manifesto

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The Great Green Transition: Inside Nairobi Fashion Week’s Radical “Decarbonize” Manifesto

NAIROBI, Kenya — In the global fashion hierarchy, the “Big Four” have long dictated the rhythm of style. But as the industry grapples with an existential environmental crisis, a new northern star is rising from East Africa. From January 28–31, 2026, Nairobi Fashion Week (NFW) Season VIII will transform Kenya’s capital into a high-stakes laboratory for the future of “Conscious Couture.”

This season, the glitter of the runway is anchored by a stern, singular directive: DECARBONIZE. It is a theme that elevates NFW from a mere trade show to a continental manifesto, challenging the very chemistry of African luxury.

A Circular Revolution in the Heart of Nairobi

For Creative Director Brian Kihindas, the “Decarbonize” mandate is an urgent response to an industry at a crossroads. Under his leadership, NFW has evolved into a sophisticated ecosystem where heritage textiles meet radical circularity.

“Decarbonize is our way of asking designers and audiences to consider the environmental impact of fashion,” Kihindas explains. “It’s about celebrating creativity while being mindful of the planet—rethinking production, embracing circularity, and designing garments that honor both people and the environment.”

The four-day event is meticulously structured to bridge the gap between high-concept art and commercial viability. Attendees will navigate a multi-sensory journey:

  • The Marketplace: A direct-to-consumer hub where the public can engage with the hands that sew their clothes.

  • The Dialogue: High-level panel discussions featuring industry titans, climate scientists, and policymakers.

  • The Spectacle: Runway shows that blend traditional African storytelling with futuristic, low-impact fabrication.

The Alumni: Architects of a New Narrative

The strength of NFW lies in its enduring “Alumni Effect.” Icons such as Eva Wambutu, known for her eco-conscious, silhouette-driven empowerment pieces, and Lucy Rao of Rialto Fashions, have used this platform to prove that sustainability is not a trend, but a foundational pillar of African luxury.

The inclusion of accessory powerhouses like Kipato Unbranded—which transforms recycled materials into socially conscious jewelry—and Egypt’s Reem Jano, whose sculptural pieces blur the line between art and adornment, reinforces the Week’s commitment to holistic design.

Season VIII: A Cross-Continental Tapestry

The 2026 lineup represents a sophisticated global exchange, featuring designers who treat “slow fashion” as a form of poetry:

  • Wanni Fuga (Lagos, Nigeria): Bringing a sustainable collection that marries minimalist elegance with the refined confidence of the modern African woman.

  • Naaniya (France/Mali): A bridge between diasporic memory and ancestral resonance, utilizing heritage textiles for a contemporary audience.

  • VAST (by Sarah): A masterclass in materiality, fusing West African handwoven textiles with natural hides and upcycled materials.

  • Studio Lola: Elevating knitwear to “wearable poetry” through sumptuous, hand-worked wool and timeless silhouettes.

  • Yevāana Handmade: A unique synthesis of Sri Lankan and Kenyan craft traditions, focusing on hand-smocked and ethically created artisanal textiles.

The Verdict: Fashion as Soft Power

As the global North looks toward Africa for the next wave of creative inspiration, Nairobi Fashion Week is ensuring that this influence is rooted in responsibility. By prioritizing decarbonization, NFW is not just making clothes; it is engineering a movement.

As the lights dim on the final runway on January 31, the true measure of success will not just be the silhouettes seen, but the carbon footprint saved—setting a new, gold standard for fashion weeks from Lagos to London.

Content courtesy of Nairobi Fashion Week & NFH Digital Team

The East African Renaissance: Claudia Naisabwa Set to Storm Cape Town’s Inaugural WAV Festival

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The East African Renaissance: Claudia Naisabwa Set to Storm Cape Town’s Inaugural WAV Festival

CAPE TOWN, South Africa—As the sun sets over the Atlantic seaboard on January 2, 2026, the historic Green Point Track will transform into the epicenter of a new cultural movement. The WAV Festival, an ambitious inaugural celebration of R&B and soul through a distinctly African lens, is not merely a concert; it is a manifesto of the continent’s rising soft power.

At the heart of this historic debut is a woman who has become the face of East Africa’s media boom: Claudia Naisabwa.

The 23-year-old Kenyan powerhouse has been tapped to co-host the festival alongside South African personality Olly Zondi. For industry insiders, the pairing is a masterstroke of Pan-African synergy, bridging the gap between Nairobi and Cape Town while signaling a shift in how African entertainment is packaged for a global audience.

The “Claudia Naisabwa Factor”: A New Era of Influence

In the high-stakes world of international entertainment, Naisabwa represents the elusive “Triple Threat” of the Gen Z era. A proud native of the Samburu people, her ascent from a local TV and radio presenter on NTV Kenya to an international emcee is a testament to what critics call the “Claudia Naisabwa Factor.”

It is a unique blend of “girl-next-door” relatability and high-fashion sophistication. Her influence transcends traditional broadcasting; she is as comfortable officiating national events for President William Ruto as she is driving viral trends on TikTok and Instagram. This versatility has made her a crucial bridge for luxury brands and music labels looking to tap into the “poptimism” of Africa’s fashionable youth.

“WAV Festival represents the future of African and diasporic R&B—soulful, forward-thinking, and deeply connected,” say the organizers at The Malachite Group and Africa Creative Agency. “Claudia brings an authentic East African perspective that perfectly embodies the global wave we are creating. She represents the rise of young African women owning the narrative.”

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A Convergence of Sound and Style

The festival’s lineup reads like a “who’s who” of contemporary soul and alternative sounds. Headlined by Mariah The Scientist, the roster includes:

  • Global Heavyweights: Wale and Sasha Keable.

  • The African Vanguard: Kelvin Momo, Shekhinah, Manana, and Langa Mavuso.

  • Emerging Pioneers: Nanette, Kujenga, and Lia Butler.

For Naisabwa, this South African debut is a pivotal chapter in her self-styled “Africa TakeOver” Tour. Having already graced stages in Uganda and Tanzania—and with a highly anticipated hosting slot at the upcoming AFRIMA Awards in Nigeria—she is rapidly becoming Kenya’s premier entertainment export.

Beyond the Spotlight: Purpose-Driven Power

While her fashion choices and high-energy stage presence dominate the headlines, Naisabwa’s true impact lies in her social architecture. Through her CN Initiative, launched in 2024, she has mentored over 500 young women on mental health, body positivity, and creative entrepreneurship.

As the youngest nominee under 25 in the Forty Under 40 Africa awards, she uses her platform to champion girl-child education and anti-teenage pregnancy awareness, proving that the modern “Media Darling” must be as committed to social change as she is to the camera.

A Global Stage

Supported by global titans like Spotify, Don Julio, and Johnnie Walker, the WAV Festival is poised to redefine the “Festival Season” in the Southern Hemisphere. As fashionistas and music enthusiasts descend upon Cape Town this January, all eyes will be on the stage—not just for the melodies, but for the young woman from Nairobi who is proving that the future of African media is female, fierce, and undeniably global.

Content courtesy of BM Publications  & NFH Digital Team

Nairobi’s Creative Renaissance: Inside the Delight Technical College 2025 Grand Graduation and Fashion Runway

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Nairobi’s cultural pulse quickened this December as the Kenya National Theatre hosted the Delight Technical College Grand Fashion Runway. More than a graduation, the evening was a sophisticated showcase of avant-garde design and technical mastery, proving that the future of couture lies in the hands of Africa’s newest designers. With a curriculum that now fuses heritage tailoring with AI-driven innovation, these graduates are redefining what it means to be a modern creative.

By Oscar Alochi

NAIROBI, Kenya — December 19, 2025

The Kenya National Theatre, a historic cornerstone of East African culture, was transformed this week into a high-octane intersection of heritage and high-tech. On December 19, Delight Technical College hosted its 2025 Graduation Ceremony and Grand Fashion Runway, signaling a bold new era for Kenya’s creative economy.

In a showcase that blurred the lines between a formal commencement and a Paris-style catwalk, the institution celebrated a new cohort of “thinkers, dreamers, and doers”. As global eyes increasingly turn to Nairobi as a hub for innovation, these graduates are stepping onto the world stage at a pivotal moment for the continent.

A Visionary Mandate: The CEO’s Call to Innovation

The atmosphere was set by an inspiring address from the Principal’s desk. Mr. Saitoti Meitamei, Principal of Delight Technical College, delivered a powerful charge to the Class of 2025, framing their graduation as a victory of resilience and creativity.

“This ceremony is not only a recognition of your hard work… but also a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and innovation that have defined your journey,” Meitamei declared. “As ambassadors of Delight Technical College, I urge you to carry forward the values instilled in you: discipline, integrity, and excellence”.

His message underscored the college’s role in equipping students not just for employment, but for the transformation of their communities and the wider world.

The Grand Fashion Runway: 2025 Trends

The highlights of the day were the three distinct runway segments that featured the work of the School of Fashion and Design. The collections displayed a sophisticated blend of sustainable materials and digital integration, a hallmark of the college’s 2025 curriculum.

  • Runway 1 & 2: High-concept tailoring and contemporary silhouettes.

  • Media & AI Spotlight: A groundbreaking segment dedicated to the fusion of Artificial Intelligence and visual storytelling, recognizing the top talent in digital media production.

The Honor Roll: Graduates of the Class of 2025

The following students were recognized for their outstanding achievement and technical mastery:

School of Fashion and Design

Diploma in Tailoring, Fashion & Design

  • Distinction: Neris Kweh Nfor, Ashley Njeri, Miriam Muthoni Munene, Lyvier Nyaboe Mogare, Janet Wamaitha Muchiri, Ann Munyiva Mungai, Abigail Mutindi Kimuyu, Jane Mwangi, Joy Karimi Nyaga, Mary Nyambura Mwaniki.

  • Merit: Alice Akello Ochola, Alvis Waweru Ndichu, Anne Wairimu Mugweru, Daisy Nkatha Muriithi, Deborah Ruby Brown-Freeman, Ella May Kanini, Elsie Muthoni Githinji, Emelda Nelima, Emily Syombua Nzioki, Gichunge Moureen Karendi, Jepng’etich Maxmillar, Juheria Mohamed Manur, Maiyo Jepngetich Ruth, Maria Prudence, Mary Mumo Kole, Mary Njoki Muchiri, Melanie Carey Obote, Milka Njoki Nyaguthii, Minhal Bakhtiar, Monicah Wairimu Gitau, Moses Njuguna, Nattabi Sumayyah, Ngugi Grace Makena, Sandra Jeniffer Mighulo, Sharon Jerop, Shepherd Kemirembe, Vilvin Cherotich Kiprop, Wainaina Christine Wanjiku, Wang’oma Maria Asiro, Wendy Akinyi Okoth.

Certificates

  • Dressmaking: Patricia Muthoni Njuguna.

  • Tailoring: Stephen Ekai Loktari.

School of Media and Artificial Intelligence

  • Diploma in Graphic Design (Distinction): Lakisha Nyambura Ngamau.

  • Diploma in Photography & Videography (Distinction): Sikuku Brian Wafula, Robert Mburu.

  • Diploma in Photography & Videography (Merit): Calvis Ndunge.

Alumni Success: From the Classroom to the Global Stage

The event also served as a homecoming for the college’s International Alumni Network, featuring leaders who are already redefining their industries:

  • Diana Kilonzi: CEO of Stitched by Dee, a powerhouse in custom-made elegant designs.

  • Sammy (Finest) Olwangu: Celebrated Fashion Designer who has styled pan-African celebrities including Nyashinski and Otile Brown.

  • Job Nyabuto: Founder of Finesse Media KE, a visionary in corporate and fashion videography with over 200 projects under his belt.

  • Yoko Oku: Creative Director of Yoko Oku Boutique, a leader in haute couture bridal wear.

  • Leshan Gregory & Philip Wagai: Respective founders of Bloq Photography KE and it’s Phil Productions, setting new standards in visual storytelling.

2026 Academic Outlook: Shaping the Next Wave

As a TVETA-accredited institution, Delight Technical College is already looking toward 2026 with an expanded course list designed for the global marketplace.

Courses Offered for 2026:

  • Media & AI: Film Production, Digital Journalism, and Artificial Intelligence (Level 6).

  • Fashion & Design: Fashion Design Technology (Levels 4, 5, 6), Dressmaking, and Tailoring.1

  • Technical Arts: ICT (Computer Operator), Graphic Design, Photography, and Videography.

Entry Requirements:

  • Artisan (Level 3): KCPE or KCSE (Any grade).

  • Diploma (Level 6): KCSE C– or Level 5.

Visit www.delight.ac.ke for more information on the 2026 intake.

Content courtesy of Delight Technical College & NFH

 

The Vanguard of African Design: Inside Delight Technical College’s 2025 Graduation and Grand Fashion Runway

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Delight Technical College is proud to announce the successful graduation of the Class of 2025, held on December 19th at the Kenya National Theatre. Under the theme of resilience and innovation, the ceremony marked eight years of technical education excellence, awarding diplomas and certificates across the Schools of Fashion and Design, and Media and Artificial Intelligence. Principal Mr. Saitoti Meitamei commended the graduates for their discipline and urged them to go forth and shape the future of their communities.

By Oscar Alochi

NAIROBI, Kenya — December 19, 2025

On a balmy Friday evening at the historic Kenya National Theatre, the air was thick with the scent of fresh fabric and the electric hum of anticipation. This was not merely graduation; it was the “Grand Fashion Runway,” a high-stakes debut for the next generation of African creative pioneers from Delight Technical College.

As the global fashion industry increasingly looks to Nairobi as a hub for sustainable innovation and cultural storytelling, the Class of 2025 stood ready to answer the call.

A Vision of Resilience and Excellence

The ceremony opened with a poignant address from the Principal’s desk. Mr. Saitoti Meitamei, Principal of Delight Technical College, stood before a sea of caps and gowns to declare the milestone a victory of “resilience, creativity, and innovation”.

“The world you are stepping into is dynamic and ever-evolving,” Meitamei told the graduates. “It calls for thinkers, dreamers, and doers who can craft solutions with imagination and courage. You are those pioneers”. He urged the ambassadors of the institution to carry forth the core values of discipline, integrity, and excellence into a world hungry for new narratives.

The Runway: Where Heritage Meets the Future

The afternoon transitioned from formal conferment to a spectacular three-part fashion showcase that would not have been out of place on the screens of Vogue or the streets of Milan.

  • Runway 1 & 2: Displayed the technical mastery of the School of Fashion and Design. Looks ranged from intricate tailoring to bold, avant-garde silhouettes that blurred the lines between traditional African heritage and contemporary street style.

  • Media & AI Recognition: In a nod to the shifting global landscape, a dedicated segment honored the fusion of Media and Artificial Intelligence. This integration highlights the college’s commitment to equipping students with tech-forward skills—from digital journalism to AI-driven design—ensuring they remain competitive in a digitized modern world.

Among those lauded were top-tier graduates like Neris Kweh Nfor, Ashley Njeri, and Miriam Muthoni Munene, all of whom secured Distinctions in the Diploma of Tailoring, Fashion & Design.

The Alumni Legacy: From Classroom to CEO

The event served as a bridge between current success and future potential, spotlighting alumni who have already conquered the international stage.

Notable figures included Diana Kilonzi, founder of Stitched by Dee, known for her bold, custom-made designs, and Sammy (Finest) Olwangu, the designer who has dressed Africa’s biggest celebrities, including Nyashinski and Otile Brown. Their stories of transformation—from students to industry leaders—provided a tangible roadmap for the 2025 cohort.

Nairobi’s Creative Renaissance

As an institution approved by the Ministry of Education (TVETA-accredited), Delight Technical College has spent eight years refining a model of “Technical Education Excellence”. By offering modularized courses and flexible study options, the college champions an inclusive approach to higher education that aligns with Africa’s global industry needs.

As the guests departed the Kenya National Theatre at dusk, the message was clear: the Class of 2025 is not just graduating into the industry; they are here to shape the future.

Delight Technical College is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Academic Year, with intakes in progress for Diploma, Certificate, and Artisan courses in Fashion, Media, and AI.

Content courtesy of Delight Technical College & NFH Digital Team 

The Vanguard of African Style: Nigerian Student Fashion and Design Week Sets the Stage for a High-Octane 2025 Return

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

The Vanguard of African Style: Nigerian Student Fashion and Design Week Sets the Stage for a High-Octane 2025 Return

The pulse of Lagos is set to quicken this December as the Nigerian Student Fashion and Design Week (NSFDW) prepares for its ninth edition. More than a mere runway show, the event has established itself as the definitive launchpad for the continent’s next generation of sartorial disruptors.

Scheduled for December 20, 2025, at the sleek GAC Motors venue in Victoria Island, the event will embed itself into the heart of “Detty December”—the city’s world-famous season of cultural exuberance.

A Global Launchpad for Emerging Talent

Since its debut in 2013, NSFDW has served as a bridge between raw creativity and commercial viability. The platform’s track record is formidable: over 300 designers have debuted on its runway, with many transitioning from student hopefuls to international contenders.

The success of the 2024 alumni serves as a testament to this trajectory. Winners PatrickSlim and Vienne Styling recently made their mark at Dallas Fashion Week 2025, garnering international acclaim and proving that the NSFDW pipeline leads directly to the global stage.

Where Creativity Meets Opportunity

This year’s theme, “Detty December,” captures the festive, expressive spirit of Nigeria’s year-end celebrations. However, the event offers more than just aesthetic appeal. The 2025 itinerary includes:

  • Avant-Garde Runways: Showcasing the boldest visions in contemporary African attire.

  • Expert Panels: Thought leadership sessions focused on the business of fashion.

  • Networking Hubs: Bridging the gap between young designers, seasoned stylists, and global investors.

“Every year, we observe how our participants take bold steps that redefine African fashion,” says Abiola Orimolade, Founder of NSFDW. “NSFDW is a comprehensive system that guides young creatives from emerging talent to recognized professionals. We are creating a space where creativity meets opportunity.”

The Cultural Impact

As Lagos continues to cement its status as a global fashion capital, NSFDW 2025 stands at the intersection of innovation and enterprise. By aligning with the city’s most vibrant season, the platform ensures that African youth innovation remains at the forefront of the international cultural conversation.

For those looking to witness the future of African design, participation details and media inquiries are available at www.nsfdweek.com or via @nsfdweek on Instagram.

Content courtesy of NOVA & NFH

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