The Chief Executive Officer of African Couture, Nigeria, Mr. Charles Oronsaye, has launched Africana 17 Charitable Foundation to raise funds for two dialysis machines for the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), among others
The project, which he described as his lifelong aspiration will also provide free treatment as part of Africana’s commitment to social responsibility.
Oronsaye, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, noted that the foundation will use fashion as a tool. According to him, the goal of the foundation is to support underprivileged communities and demonstrate the potentially impactful role of the nation’s culture industry in the development of the society.
He ceremony, which was tagged, Africana Experience Live Runway was used to unveil the collection titled, The Art of Life.
Oronsaye stated that Africana Couture is domicile in capital cities of three African countries, including Dakar (Senegal), Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire) and Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria.
He also hoped that in the next five years, the foundation would have expanded its operations to the North, East and South of Africa.
He said: “First thing first, we need to conquer Africa before we move to the West. Most people want to rush to the West because they want to look like the West. We want to take care of Africa first before we sit in the West and when we do, it will be more authentic.”
The brand’s inaugural runway show epitomized its growth and commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, blending traditional African elements with contemporary design and showcasing of its latest SS24 collections.
The runway featured a range of fashion designs, including the Art of Living (Lounge Wear). This is an effortlessly stylish loungewear that creates a relaxed atmosphere. There is also Art of Culture (Kaftans and Agbada) – an elegant traditional African attire that celebrates the continent’s rich heritage.
The Art of Urban (Street Wear) is a contemporary street wear with vibrant African inspired art. The featured designs portrayed, not only the creative ingenuity of Nigerian designers but a blend of skills and elegance.
An engaging documentary, which was screened across the venue offered greater insights into Africana’s journey, ethos and inspiration for SS24 with Ifidon Oisamoje, Guest Creative Director, notably sharing the thought process behind its development.
Black carpet reception set the tone for an evening of grandeur and artistic expression which musical performances, including an orchestra and choir, along with the art installations, provided a vibrant backdrop to the evening.
The night’s cultural richness was further amplified through a traditional dance performance from Benin Cultural Troupe, fueling the atmosphere with a spirited ambience.
