Lilly Alfonso’s initiative in collaboration with the British Council aims to empower local designers through training, mentorship, and global visibility.
Celebrated fashion designer Lilly Alfonso has announced the launch of the Creative DNA Malawi initiative in collaboration with the British Council, aimed at providing vital support to local fashion designers. The initiative commenced in March and is set to continue until November 2023.
As of now, the program has garnered the participation of at least 96 fashion designers, all of whom are seeking to enhance their skills and gain mentorship on how to effectively market their work beyond local borders. The initiative is designed to bridge the gap between local artisans and the global fashion marketplace, providing a comprehensive support structure for emerging talent.
During a press briefing held in Lilongwe on Friday, Lilly Alfonso emphasized the importance of this program. She described it as an opportunity for designers to access training, showcase their creations, and foster relationships with potential buyers and investors. “Creative DNA Malawi is doing the same thing that I have been doing over the years, but with the added benefit of financing designers to showcase outside the country,” Alfonso stated, highlighting the program’s aim to enhance exposure for local talents.
Alfonso, an award-winning fashion designer, noted that the initiative will not only offer practical training but also facilitate access to industry experts, significantly expanding the learning opportunities for participants. “This collaboration with British Council will allow us to support a larger number of designers, providing them with training and opportunities to showcase their work globally,” she explained.
Key to the initiative’s agenda is a fashion show, which is set to take place at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe from November 27 to 30, 2025. This event will provide designers with a dedicated platform to exhibit their work and engage directly with potential investors and buyers, a crucial step towards establishing a presence in the international fashion market.
Additionally, Creative DNA Malawi plans to forge partnerships with universities across the country, aiming to incorporate the academic expertise of established fashion design programs into the initiative. “The program will tap from the universities’ fashion design programmes and work with them to support emerging designers,” Alfonso remarked, indicating a strategic move to involve educational institutions in nurturing the next generation of fashion professionals.
The Creative DNA Malawi initiative represents a significant step in bolstering the local fashion industry, offering resources and connections that could prove pivotal for designers looking to expand their reach and visibility on a global scale. With the backing of the British Council and a commitment to empowering local talent, the initiative is poised to play a vital role in the evolution of Malawi’s fashion landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
