Who Was the Most Fashionable at the Silver Gala 2024 in Kigali?

Kigali's fashion scene reached new heights at the Silver Gala 2024, held at the Kigali Convention Center Auditorium. Organized by international choreographer Sherrie Silver, the event brought together business leaders, artists, and influencers in a dazzling display of style and creativity. With a strong emphasis on made-in-Rwanda fashion, the gala showcased the talent of local designers and the evolving sartorial tastes of Kigalians.

Kigalian showing her fashion style and creativity at The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 Setting the Stage

Sherrie Silver, known for her MTV Award-winning choreography, set the tone for the event by encouraging attendees to support local talent. "We've put together a fashion directory featuring some of our favorite formal attire designers in Rwanda," Silver announced before the gala. This initiative not only promoted Rwandan fashion but also ensured that guests would arrive in unique, locally crafted ensembles.

Attendees were very happy to take self [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

The red carpet was a parade of elegance and innovation, with every guest posing for a picture in front of a large white banner emblazoned with "The SILVER GALA" in shining white letters. Anet Umuhire, a fashion enthusiast who attended the event, described it as "an unforgettable evening of fashion." She noted the diversity of styles, saying, "Colors were shining, some were black and white, and others were green. It was a combination of all colors, and I loved it."

 From left; Miss Rwanda 2020, Naomie Nishimwe with Sherrie Silver on the red carpet [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

Standout Looks of the Evening

 Sherrie Silver

The hostess herself wore multiple stunning gowns that blended traditional Rwandan motifs with contemporary design. One notable dress, created by a local designer, featured a black base with gold and beaded accents, intricate beadwork, and a flowing silhouette that captured the essence of modern African fashion.

[Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Runtown

Nigerian artist Runtown, one of the VIP guests, opted for classic elegance in a black suit paired with a red tie and expensive black sunglasses. The 35-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer, known for hits like "Mad Over You" and "For Life," made a strong impression with his sleek ensemble.

[Photo Credit: IGIHE]

Lisa Quama Darko

Ghanaian dancer Lisa Quama Darko turned heads in a vibrant collection accessorized with black and white fabrics and touches of African beads. Her green and black hairstyle perfectly complemented the outfit, balancing African heritage with cutting-edge style.

[Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Beth Pearcey

UK dancer Beth Pearcey brought an international flair to the event, sporting a sleek, minimalist gown in striking all-red. The dress, made by a Rwandan designer, demonstrated the versatility and global appeal of local fashion.

From right, UK dancer Beth Pearcey in a beautiful red dress [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Fred Swaniker

Founder of the African Leadership Group, Fred Swaniker impressed in a well-tailored suit with a white shirt and black bowtie. 

Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Jolly Mutesi

Former Miss Rwanda 2016, Joyly Mutesi, wore a stunning dress that mixed shimmering gold with various colors. At 20, Mutesi was the first beauty queen to represent Rwanda in the Miss World competition.

Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Masai Michael Ujiri

Toronto Raptors president Masai Michael Ujiri, known for his involvement in the Kigali BK Arena project, wore an all-gray outfit made in Africa. His monochromatic look stood out for its simplicity and elegance.

Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 Sandrine Mucyo

Former model Sandrine Mucyo captured attention in a dress created by local designer Matheo. The light green and yellow gown, adorned with a unique crown and intricate beadwork, was hailed as one of the night's top designs.

Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 Bwiza Emerance

Musician Bwiza Emerance, known by her stage name Bwiza, wore a unique all-black dress with feather accents. Her creativity and style earned her the Best Dressed Award for Ladies, showcasing the talent of the Matheo clothing brand based in Kigali.

Photo Credit: IGIHE]

 The Ben

Rwandan music sensation The Ben didn't disappoint in his role as the night's musical performer. He wore a custom-made ensemble that combined a classic tuxedo silhouette with unexpected textures and patterns, showcasing the innovative spirit of Rwanda's fashion scene.

Photo Credit: IGIHE]

 Trends and Highlights

Many attendees embraced the opportunity to support local designers while making bold fashion statements. One notable trend was the use of upcycled materials, with several guests wearing outfits that incorporated recycled fabrics into high-fashion designs. This eco-conscious approach added an extra layer of meaning to the evening's fashion parade.

Fashion designer Shema Gatean and musician Kevin Kade [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Accessorizing played a crucial role in elevating many looks. Handcrafted jewelry from Rwandan artisans was prominently featured, with statement pieces adorning necks, wrists, and ears. These accessories not only completed the outfits but also highlighted the country's rich artistic heritage.

The gala's fashion wasn't limited to clothing. Innovative hairstyles and makeup looks complemented the outfits, with many attendees opting for styles that celebrated natural African beauty. Intricate braids, bold lip colors, and shimmering eye makeup were among the beauty trends that dominated the evening.

 Many people attended The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 More Than Just Fashion

As the night progressed, it became clear that the Silver Gala 2024 was more than just a fashion event. It was a celebration of Rwandan creativity, a platform for local designers to showcase their talent, and a testament to the country's growing influence in the global fashion industry.

Rwandaise leading traditional singer and songwriter known as Intore Masamba [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

The fusion of traditional and modern elements in many outfits reflected Rwanda's current cultural moment – honoring its heritage while boldly stepping into the future. This balance was perhaps best exemplified by a group of young traditional dancers who attended in matching outfits that reimagined the traditional Rwandan imikenyero and Inshabure.

Children from Sherrie Silver Foundation dancing Rwanda's traditional dance [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

While the gala's primary purpose was to raise funds for the Sherrie Silver Foundation, supporting over 660 children and youth, it also succeeded in elevating Rwanda's fashion profile. The event proved that Kigali is not just embracing global fashion trends but is actively contributing to them, with local designers and fashion enthusiasts leading the charge.

 Sherrie Silver Foundation supports children from different communities in Rwanda [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

"It was clear that everyone in attendance had contributed to a spectacular showcase of style," Anet stated. "From established designers to up-and-coming creatives, from business leaders to artists, the event demonstrated that fashion in Kigali is not just about looking good – it's about making a statement, supporting local talent, and pushing the boundaries of creativity."

The Most Fashionable?

Determining the most fashionable at the Silver Gala 2024 in Kigali is a challenging task. Perhaps it wasn't any single individual, but rather the collective spirit of innovation, cultural pride, and forward-thinking style that permeated the event. As Kigali continues to establish itself as a fashion capital, events like the Silver Gala serve as a reminder of the power of fashion to unite, inspire, and transform.

Fashion lovers and fashion enthusiasts at the Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

The winner of the most creative fashion designer award was Olivier Niyitanga, CEO & Founder of Tanga Designs. Fittingly, he accepted the award in a striking black and white outfit, embodying the fusion of tradition and modernity that defined the evening.

Third from left is Olivier Niyitanga, CEO & Founder of Tanga Designs. receiving the award of the best fashion designer of the Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

The Silver Gala 2024 in Kigali was more than just a showcase of individual style; it was a testament to Rwanda's burgeoning fashion industry and its ability to blend cultural heritage with contemporary design. The event not only highlighted the most fashionable individuals but also celebrated the collective creativity and vision of Kigali's fashion community, solidifying the city's place on the global fashion map.

 Media personality, MC, DJ, and journalist Makeda [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

Musician Aline Sano at The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: IGIHE}

From left, Miss Naomie Nishimwe was the MC on the red carpet Interview Sherrie Silver [Photo credit: IGIHE]

 From left is Insh Kevin Rwandaise, a musician wearing a collection made by Izuba [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

Music producer, singer, and songwriter Element Eleeeh [Photo credit: IGIHE]

 Media personality and journalist Andy Bumuntu [Photo Credit: IGIHE] 

From right is Rwandaise professional dancer Angel Karabo with Ghanaian dancer Lisa Quama [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

From right, Arthur Nkusi, actor, comedian, and journalist with Sherrie Silver [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

From right is the former model and media personality known as Isimbi model, and her husband [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Media personality and content digital, creator Erica Mbanda [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

Media personality and personal blogger Maddie Noella [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

From left is Claire Akamanzi former RDB CEO, and CEO of NBA Africa, Sherrie Silver, and Founder of the African Leadership Group, Fred Swaniker [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Fashionable Rwanda Broadcasting Agency -RBA Journalists  during The Silver Gala 2024[Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Very fashionable women enjoying together with Kigalians fashion lovers at The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

 Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS