Will the BRICS + Fashion Summit Provide Fashion Education to Africa?

The year 2024 is set to be unforgettable for African fashion entrepreneurs, especially those who attended the BRICS + Fashion Summit in Moscow, Russia. Africa was represented by delegations from over 30 countries, including South Africa, Ethiopia, Egypt, Algeria, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and others. The summit also welcomed delegations from China, India, Indonesia, the UAE, Brazil, Malaysia, and other nations from Asia, Latin America, and Europe.  

Africa continent was well represented during the BRICS +Fashion Summit 2024 in Mosco, Russia [Photo Credit: BFS]

As reported by the RCFS media before the summit, many heads of African fashion councils were photographed at the event, sharing their excitement about this international fashion gathering. Prior to the summit, the organizers promised attendees from African countries that they would learn from global fashion experts and gain insights into the international fashion market.

In this article, we aim to examine how the BRICS + Fashion Summit has contributed to Africa's growing fashion industry and answer the critical question: "Will the BRICS + Fashion Summit Provide Fashion Education to Africa?"

Delegate and speaker from Kenya Brian Kihindas the founder of Nairobi Fashion Week and President of Kenya Fashion Council  [Photo Credit: BFS]

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Our analysis draws inspiration from an article titled "BRICS + Fashion Summit 2023: The Imperative of Fashion Education," published in January 2024 by Dr. Gulbash Duggal on the BRICS + Fashion Summit's LinkedIn page.

According to Dr. Duggal, fashion education extends far beyond learning the latest trends and design techniques. It encompasses nurturing creativity, fostering critical thinking, and developing a profound understanding of the fashion industry's socio-cultural and environmental impact.

Delegate and speaker  Mpho Mogotsi Mrs. Universe Top Africa Int | Mrs. Universe Africa [Photo Credit: BFS]

Historically, clothing has always been part of African traditional culture, but the concept of "fashion" as an industry is relatively new. Sixty years ago, Africans primarily wore second-hand clothing, and fashion was not a topic of formal education. In East African schools, for instance, fashion was not part of the curriculum, and people were simply focused on wearing clothes.

From right delegate and speaker from Zimbabwe  Priscilla Chigariro the founder of Zimbabwe Fashion Week  [Photo Credit: BFS]

Twenty years ago, some African countries began developing fashion education programs. However, many African citizens still struggle to distinguish between a fashion designer and a tailor. As fashion experts note, "Fashion education in Africa means helping our community understand the difference between design and tailoring."

Delegate and speaker from Uganda Brian Ahumuza - Abryanz Style & Fashion Awards Africa, Fashion Entrepreneur   [Photo Credit: BFS]

Dr. Duggal emphasizes that each BRICS nation possesses a rich cultural heritage and distinct fashion identity. Fashion education can play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting these unique styles. By investing in local talent through educational initiatives, BRICS nations can create a sustainable fashion ecosystem that celebrates diversity and individuality.

When asked about the meaning of a sustainable fashion ecosystem in Africa, a fashion expert explained, "It means investing in our institutions to learn about proper fashion and sustainability. We need to create a curriculum of fashion. Look at all African countries and BRICS African member nations. How many fashion schools do they actually have?"

An African delegate who attended the 2024 BRICS + Fashion Summit shared a mixed perspective. While he appreciated the opportunity to network with international fashion entrepreneurs and experts, he was uncertain about concrete investments to grow the African fashion sector.

"The summit was good," he said. "I was able to meet many international fashion professionals and even participate in a panel. In terms of funds and direct support for Africa, we still have a long way to go. But it was somewhat promising."

Another delegate highlighted the importance of removing barriers between BRICS member nations. "We need to enable fashion designers to sell their work in Russia, Brazil, or South Africa without visa complications or language issues," he explained. Indeed, during the summit, English was often the lingua franca due to language diversity.

Dr. Duggal views the summit as a platform to discuss and implement educational strategies promoting eco-friendly design, ethical sourcing, and responsible manufacturing. She emphasizes that fashion education fosters collaboration and cultural exchange, providing a unique opportunity for students and professionals to engage in cross-border initiatives.

Moreover, fashion education extends beyond design to include the business side of the industry. By imparting entrepreneurial skills, BRICS nations can empower aspiring fashion professionals to navigate the complex world of fashion business and promote economic growth.

Delegates from Africa during the BRICS +Fashion Summit 2024 in Mosco, Russia [Photo Credit: BFS]

The inclusion of fashion education in the BRICS + Fashion Summit represents a strategic move aligned with the evolving dynamics of the global fashion industry. By recognizing education's importance in shaping fashion's future, BRICS nations can lay the foundation for a resilient, diverse, and sustainable fashion ecosystem that benefits both the industry and society. 

Delegates from Africa during the BRICS +Fashion Summit 2024 in Mosco, Russia [Photo Credit: BFS]

The sixteenth annual BRICS (whose membership has grown from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to also include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates) summit was held in Kazan, Russia, on October 22-October 24. 2024.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS