A new event for 2014, Africa on the Square featured live music from Dele Sosimi’s Afrobeat Experience, Aar Maanta and many more, as well as performances from African drummers, acrobats and dancers, and a talent show for young people.
There was also an African fashion show, food stalls, a market selling Africa themed goods and products and free family workshops where visitors could try everything from batik to mosaic making. Africa on the Square was organised by the Mayor of London for Black History Month 2014.
As Europe’s largest event for African and African inspired fashion Africa Fashion Week London was asked to organise the fashion show. AFWL is a celebration of African design talent and the diverse ethnic influences that contribute to fashion in the UK. It aims to promote new and emerging designers that are inspired by the rich culture of Africa and incorporate this heritage into contemporary design. Choosing 4 designers from their 4th season in August 2014 AFWL showed the crowds how diverse African fashion can be, designers who were featured included Izelia, Touch of Africa, Adaora’s and Alicia Mullings.
AFWL Founder Ronke Ademiluyi said of their participation: “We were thrilled to be asked to be part of the very first Africa On the Square. It was great to see so many people engaging with the diverse culture of the continent of Africa. The designers collections looked wonderful on the stage and we cannot wait to be back again to bring African fashion to London”.
Notes to editors:
- Africa Fashion London will be celebrating their 5th Anniversary in 2015 – if you would like to participate please email [email protected]
- For more press information about Africa Fashion Week London please contact [email protected]