LIFESTYLE NEWS - Africa Fashion International( AFI) , a leading platform for promoting African Fashion, is thrilled to announce the launch of its annual search for the 2025 Fastrack Young Designer of the Year.
Applications officially opened on 14 April.
The winning designer stands to receives the prestigious Fastrack Prize, which recognises and celebrates the talents of emerging African designers who are shaping the future of the continent’s vibrant fashion industry.
To be eligible, the following criteria apply:
- 18-35 years old
- African nationality or residency
- Emerging designer with a passion for fashion. (Visit AFI website for more information on T’s and C’s)
Our selection process:
- A panel of industry experts will review applications and select a cohort of eligible designers.
- Selected designers go through a rigorous competition and a 12-month incubation and training period in the business of fashion.
- Finalists go through a series of challenges and a finalist is selected based on creativity, innovation and unique style.
To date, Fastrack has launched the careers of some of Africa's most celebrated designers, including:
- Thebe Magugu (2015 alumnus, LVMH Prize winner)
- Rich Mnisi (2014 alumnus, internationally renowned designer)
- Shamyra Moodley (2021 winner, retailing with House of Nala & Galleries Lafayette)
- Loice Dube (2023/24 winner, designer for AFI Privé)
- Other success stories include Khothatso Tsotetsi, Tuelo Nguyuza, Sindi Serape, Keneuoe Mhletswa (designer for AFI Privé) Siyabonga Mtshali and Kim Gush.
“We are proud of the Fastrack alumni and their collective achievements over the years. At AFI, we are committed to developing and elevating Africa’s creativity and talents on global platforms. Fastrack remains central to AFI's mission of growing luxury brands from Africa,” says Founder and CEO of AFI, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe.
“The Fastrack Prize is a golden opportunity for rising designers to gain valuable industry knowledge, mentorship, and an opportunity to work in a structured and supportive environment.“ she adds.
Prospective participants should submit applications on the AFI website.
Applications will close on Monday, 5 May.
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