Redefining the Narrative: African Creatives Charting New Paths

Despite flashes of global attention, African fashion brands often struggle to achieve lasting prominence. Too often, Africa’s fashion industry is measured against Western frameworks - fashion houses, fashion weeks, and global runways - that fail to align with the continent’s unique resources, market dynamics, and strengths like sustainability and local artisanship. This panel will challenge these conventions, exploring how African brands can forge a resilient and distinctly African fashion ecosystem by harnessing the talent, traditions, and opportunities already present within the continent, to create a model that thrives locally and competes globally.

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Thematic Networking Lunches offer a dynamic space for professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships over a shared meal. Each gathering is centered around a specific theme, sparking insightful discussions and fostering collaboration among like-minded individuals. Whether you're looking to gain fresh perspectives, explore new opportunities, or simply expand your network in a relaxed yet purposeful setting, these lunches provide the perfect opportunity to engage, learn, and grow.

Is Africa moving toward greater unity or deeper division? This closing session will assess geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and regional progress, from the Sahel crisis and DRC-Rwanda conflict to the growth of AfCFTA and digital transformation. A panel of experts will tackle tough questions: Are regional organizations adapting? What role should business, government, and civil society play? And is Beyond Borders a vision to pursue — or a concept to rethink?

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