Who Are the Five African Fashion Designers in the TechStitched Programme?

The TechStitched is the latest fashion residency programme, unveiled last week in Ethiopia. It has been designed in collaboration with the esteemed Hub of Africa Fashion Week and Guzo Technologies. It is a beacon of innovation and partnership within the African fashion landscape.

At its core, the TechStitched Fashion Residency Programme is all about creative exchange and cross-cultural engagement. Through a meticulous selection process, fashion designers hailing from the stages of Hub of Africa, Accra, Swahili, South Africa, and Lagos Fashion Weeks have converged in Ethiopia, for an immersive journey of exploration, craftsmanship, and collaboration.

                             The TechStitched is the latest fashion residency programme, unveiled last week in Ethiopia [PHOTO BC]

This initiative offers selected designers a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in Ethiopia's rich cultural tapestry and artisanal traditions. From the vibrant streets of Addis Ababa to the serene landscapes of Arba Minch, participants will traverse diverse terrains, each imbued with its unique blend of heritage and modernity.

The TechStitched Fashion Residency Programme united five fashion powerhouses from Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Ghana [PHOTO BC]

 Set against the scenic backdrop of Arba Minch, this initiative delved into the intricacies of Ethiopian textile artistry. From the delicate touch of cotton to the luxurious allure of silk, designers were immersed in hands-on workshops, guided by master artisans preserving centuries-old techniques. Beyond honing their craft, this immersive journey offered invaluable insights into Ethiopia’s dynamic fashion landscape, enriching their creative vision and deepening their appreciation for timeless traditions.

The TechStitched Fashion Residency Programme united five fashion powerhouses from Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Ghana [PHOTO BC]

ALSO READ: THE FUTURE OF ETHIOPIAN FASHION IS BRIGHT: MEET 10 BEST UPCOMING FASHION DESIGNERS IN THE CREATIVE DNA

Kuhle Phumzile Zondo is a fashion designer selected for the TechStitched fashion residency in Ethiopia. Kuhle is from South Africa Fashion Week. She is the Creative Design at  E_mania, a brand that finds its creative spark in African idioms, weaving them into its distinctive aesthetic. 

Kuhle Phumzile Zondo a fashion designer and founder of E_MANIA [PHOTO BC]

Based in Johannesburg, the brand positions itself as an artistic movement dedicated to reimagining African idioms through fashion. At the heart of E_mania lies a profound connection to the intricate tapestry of African cultural narratives. Each garment crafted by E_mania upholds the brand's 3 R promise - Repair, Re-Use, and Recycle - underscoring its unwavering commitment to sustainability.

Made by E_mania [PHOTO E_MANIA] 

Made by E_mania [PHOTO E_MANIA] 

Meron Abraha Berhe is a fashion designer who was selected from Hub of Africa Fashion Week. She is the Creative Designer at Birabiro Apparel, a modern fashion label deeply rooted in cultural inspiration and sustainability. The Birabiro blends style with eco-consciousness and stays committed to locally sourced materials and ethical production methods.

Meron Abraha Berhe, a fashion designer and founder of the Birabiro Apparel [PHOTO BIRABIRO]

Made by Birabiro Apparel [PHOTO BIRABIRO]

Made by Birabiro Apparel [PHOTO BIRABIRO]

Peter Oroja Acha, is a fashion designer and founder of the Pettre Taylor which is a Nigeria-based free-spirited lifestyle brand founded to inspire freedom and flexibility in young creative minds. From a multicultural perspective, it produces expressive and refined garments that embrace an eclectic mix of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary designs. This brand serves as a fusion point for cultures, politics, craft, and sophisticated colour sensibilities, catering to individuals seeking an authentic and diverse expression of style. 

Peter Oroja Acha a fashion designer and founder of the PETTRE TAYLOR [PHOTO BC]

Made by PETTRE TAYLOR [PHOTO BC]

Made by PETTRE TAYLOR [PHOTO BC]

Kulwa Maige Njabuli is a fashion designer selected from the Swahili Fashion Week and she is the founder of Jesakudo Fashion House. The brand uses a diverse range of materials in its garments and accessories. Its overarching goal is to extend its reach globally, offering meticulously crafted creations to discerning customers. 

Kulwa Maige Njabuli fashion designer and founder of Jesakudo Fashion House [PHOTO BC]

Made by Jesakudo Fashion House [PHOTO BC]

Made by Jesakudo Fashion House [PHOTO BC]

Abigail Boison is a fashion designer selected from the Accra Fashion Week and is the founder of Magbrien. The brand is renowned for its distinctive ready-to-wear designs that offer luxury within reach. With meticulous attention to detail, the brand takes pride in delivering impeccable finishing in every piece. Unafraid of vibrant hues, they infuse their designs with an array of stunning colours, catering to the diverse preferences of their clientele.

Abigail Boison a fashion designer and founder of the Style_Magbrien [PHOTO BC]

 Made by Style_Magbrien [PHOTO SM]

Made by Style_Magbrien [PHOTO SM]

The TechStitched Fashion Residency Programme united five fashion powerhouses from Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Ghana [PHOTO BC]

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