Charles Oronsaye (CEO, Africana) and Guests at the event
….. Launch Charity Foundation
By Nzeh Frankwhite
It was a night of glitz and glamour penultimate Sunday, 10th December 2023, as renowned African luxury fashion brand, Africana,
showcased its latest SS24 collection, ‘THE ART OF LIFE,’ at the ‘Africana Experience Live.’ Held at Harrow Park, Abuja, the brand’s inaugural runway show epitomised its exceptional growth and commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, blending traditional African elements with contemporary design.
The show commenced with a sophisticated Black carpet reception, setting the tone for an evening of grandeur and artistic expression. The music performances including an orchestra and choir, along with the art installations, provided a vibrant backdrop to the event.
An engaging documentary, screened across the venue offered insights into Africana’s journey, ethos and inspiration for SS24 with Ifidon Oisamoje, Guest Creative Director, notably sharing the thought process behind its development.
The night also provided a veritable platform for the launch of the brand’s Foundation, Africana 17 Charitable Foundation, a formal program aimed at supporting under privileged Nigerians with health challenges.
The founder Charles Oronsaye made this disclosure during a chat with the media at the event
Oronsaye explained that the foundation is a reflection of his lifelong aspiration to use fashion as a force to support underprivileged communities and demonstrate the potentially impactful role of the fashion industry in societal welfare.
He added that the foundation’s first project is to raise funds for two dialysis machines for the
University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), providing free treatment as a part of its commitment to social responsibility, thereby blending the world of fashion with a deep sense of empathy and care for the
community.
Speaking about the fashion show, he said the brand’s inaugural runway show displayed its exceptional growth and commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, blending traditional African elements with contemporary design.
The runway featured a range of designs, including:•Art of Living (Lounge Wear): Effortlessly stylish loungewear that creates a relaxed atmosphere.Art of Culture (Kaftans and Agbada): Elegant traditional African attire that celebrates our society’s rich heritage.
•Art of Urban (Street Wear): Contemporary streetwear with vibrant Africaninspired art.
The night’s cultural richness was further amplified through a traditional dance performance from a Benin cultural troupe, fueling the atmosphere with a spirited ambience. The runway segment of the night concluded with a collective bow, acknowledging the collaborative spirit of the creatives and support team behind the
event.
