Nurturing Young Creatives: Nigerian Fashion Company’s Unique Approach to Child Education

In the vibrant world of Nigerian fashion, a company is taking an innovative approach to nurture creativity in children. Cedre Expressions, established in 2015, has launched a groundbreaking initiative to instill a love for fashion and design in young minds.

The Cedre Expressions Creative Academy, launched in 2020, is more than just a classroom; it is a vibrant space where children can explore their artistic side. The company has successfully partnered with several schools to integrate fashion education into their summer holiday programs and these collaborations have yielded remarkable results. However, the company hopes that schools, Private and Government owned, can incorporate this training into their academic curriculum or as part of extra curricula activities.

By introducing children to the world of fashion and arts, Cedre Expressions is helping to create a new generation of creative thinkers and innovators. The company argues that fashion education develops not just creativity but also promote problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and business acumen. These skills are invaluable, as they prepare children for a variety of future opportunities, whether in fashion or other fields.

Investing in a child’s creativity is seen as an investment in their future. By partnering with schools, parents, and the community, Cedre Expressions aims to make fashion education accessible to all children, regardless of their background. This inclusive approach ensures that every child has the opportunity to develop their talents and pursue their passions.

The visionary behind this initiative is Toyin Popoola-Dania, the Creative Director of Cedre Expressions. “Our goal is not just to live life, but to live one that positively impacts others,” Toyin explains. “By providing platforms for early skill acquisition, we’re empowering the next generation and contributing to reducing unemployment in Nigeria.”

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Toyin’s journey in fashion began through her mother, a dressmaker and her path from an undergraduate frustrated with ill-fitting clothes to the Creative Director of Cedre Expressions exemplifies the transformative power of fashion education. With a diverse educational background spanning Food Science, Marketing, and Business Administration, Toyin Popoola-Dania brings a multifaceted approach to nurturing young talent.

As Nigeria’s fashion industry gains global recognition, Cedre Expressions is at the forefront of preparing the next generation to meet this growing demand. During the just concluded August, 2024 Creative Engagement Summer Class organized by Cedre Expressions, children between the age of 9 – 17yrs had an opportunity to learn basic skills in Fashion Design, Arts and Music.

The session was concluded with a Fashion Show by the children where they also had the occasion to showcase their artistica talents at a Sip and Paint and Musical Performances to over a hundred people who attended the show. This gave the children a unique experience and boosted their confidence in the creative world.

Cedre Expressions stands as a testament to the power of education and creativity. By fostering the talents of young Nigerians, the company is not only supporting individual’s dreams but also contributing to the growth and global recognition of Nigeria’s fashion industry. Through its commitment to early skills acquisition and creating platforms for its showcase, Cedre Expressions is shaping a brighter future for the next generation of fashion innovators.

The fashion company is also proudly representing Nigeria in London at the Africa Fashion Week on the 11th and 12th of October, 2024 at the Kensington & Chelsea Conference Centre, Hornton street, W8 7NX; showcasing the creativity and talent Nigerians have to offer on the international stage.

For more information about Cedre Expressions and their initiatives, you can reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].