Africa Fashion Up concluded its sixth edition in Paris, highlighting the growing influence of African fashion brands at the heart of Fashion Week.
Four winners, four distinct visions of contemporary African fashion presented their collections at Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac.
YOUNG CREATION AWARD 2026
Presented by Alexandre Liot, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Operations and Member of the Executive Committee at Galeries Lafayette:
Estaz
Esther Okonta
Founder of Estaz, Esther Okonta creates timeless, accessible, and responsibly made womenswear designed around women and the way they live in their clothes every day.
JURY AWARD 2026
Presented by Clarisse Reille, Chief Executive Officer of DEFI and IFTH:
Ezokhetho
Mpumelelo Dhlamini
With Ezokhetho, Mpumelelo Dhlamini creates a modern, structured wardrobe for everyday life, combining elegance, comfort, and impeccably tailored silhouettes.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGNER AWARD 2026
Presented by Éléonore Caroit, Minister Delegate for Francophonie, International Partnerships and French Nationals Abroad:
La Maison Kanty’s
Kouakou William Mackenzie & Bohui Aguy Thierry
The duo behind La Maison Kanty’s champions a thoughtful approach to design, driven by exceptional craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and a contemporary vision of Ivorian savoir-faire.
BEST DESIGNER AWARD 2026
Presented by Annika Mohr Storfält, Global Director of Sustainability at Balenciaga:
Imprint South Africa
Mzukisi Mbane
Through Imprint South Africa, Mzukisi Mbane has developed a distinctive Afro-futurist aesthetic, where bold prints, sculptural volumes, and cultural references come together to offer a contemporary vision of African identity.
THE FASHION SHOW
2026 EDITION
ESTAZ
EZOKHETO
