By Funsho Arogundade
Olori Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, fashion magnate and one of the wives of Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi has reflected on the growth of her platform, Africa Fashion Week Nigeria (AFWN) Since its inception in 2011, the platform has defined its role in empowering young designers and transforming the narrative of African fashion globally. Last week, the 10th edition of the AFWN was officially launched with a spotlight on African creativity, culture and resilience. The unveiling took place at the Erelu Yeye Oodua Renaissance Centre in Ikoyi, Lagos. However, the main Africa Fashion Week Nigeria 2024 will run for a three-day showcase from December 6 to December 8 at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island. The event will feature a vibrant exhibition of African fashion by established designers, emerging talents, and key stakeholders in the fashion industry. It will also celebrate a decade of achievements.
Olori Ronke said that African Fashion Week Nigeria has served as a launching pad for young designers with 80 per cent of participants being newcomers to the industry over the last decade. She also noted that African fashion is more than aesthetics but also a vital economic driver that sustains livelihood. Over the past 10 years, AFWN has showcased over 3,000 designers, hosted 50,000 guests, and generated over 200 million social media impressions. Olori Ronke is also a vocal advocate for women’s leadership whose advocacy extends beyond fashion through the Queen Moremi Ajasoro Initiative —a foundation addressing women’s health, education, and financial independence.