Nigerian fashion designer Oyindamola Aleshinloye, founder of the brand Kadiju, has been selected to showcase her work at Madrid Fashion Week in September, following her victory at the maiden Europe Day Afro-Euro Runway competition in Abuja.
The event, organised by the European Union (EU), brought together 124 young Nigerian designers, with seven finalists competing for the top prize. Aleshinloye emerged winner after impressing judges with her interpretation of Afro-Euro fusion, creativity, execution, cohesiveness, presentation, and storytelling.
Other finalists included Samira Mohammed (Sultana), who placed second; Oluchi George (Malite), who came third; and Happiness Miwori (Jasmineafrik), who finished fourth. The runners-up received various prizes in recognition of their talent.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria and West Africa, Samuela Isopi, said the initiative reflects the importance of nurturing skills and innovation in the fashion industry. “Fashion is culture, and innovation is needed in the fashion industry. 2023 is the European Year of Skills, and this initiative highlights the creativity of young people while promoting cultural diversity between Africa and Europe,” she noted.
The Afro-Euro Runway featured designs blending African and European aesthetics, underscoring fashion’s role as both cultural expression and economic opportunity. For Aleshinloye, the Madrid Fashion Week platform represents not only international exposure but also a chance to position Nigerian creativity on the global stage.
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