A pioneer of Malian fashion
Ibrahim Guindo, better known as Akim Soul, is a leading figure in Malian fashion and the driving force behind the Bamako Fashion and Design Forum. For over a decade, this passionate entrepreneur has worked tirelessly to promote the creativity and know-how of African designers. His journey, marked by unfailing determination, has led to the creation of flagship initiatives such as the Mali Mode Show and the Mali Mode Académie.
The Bamako Fashion and Design Forum: a springboard for industry
Organized for the first time in 2024, the Bamako Fashion and Design Forum has quickly established itself as a must-attend event for players in the African fashion industry. This gathering, placed under the high patronage of :
- Promote exchanges between creators, entrepreneurs, investors and institutions.
- Developing the skills of African fashion professionals.
- Highlighting the economic potential of the fashion industry.
- Promoting African fashion internationally.
The Forum’s rich and varied program is designed to meet the specific needs of those involved in African fashion. It offers a balanced mix of conferences, workshops, fashion shows and exhibitions.
- Conferences cover a wide range of topics, including sustainability, innovation, fashion trends and the industry’s economic challenges.
- The workshops enable participants to acquire new creative, production and marketing skills.
- The shows showcase the talent of African designers and the latest fashion trends.
- Exhibitions showcase the work of emerging designers and traditional know-how.
Meetings with industry professionals
For three days, actors and professionals from the fashion, textile and design industries will gather for panels, workshops and masterclasses under the theme: “The rise of African fashion: innovating, structuring and reinventing an industry”.
- Sow Namissa Thera – Founder of the fashion brand Ikalook
- Thierry Bernath, Founder of the eponymous press relations agency Thierry Bernath RP
- Moussa Bagayoko, founder of Biotex Mali Hand
- Mariah Bocoum, Founder of Mariah Bocoum Couture
- Lilly Houngnihin, Director of Laboratorio Art Contemporain and Ashu
- Dr. Awa Soronfe Doumbia, Certifex General Manager
- Moustapha Sy N’diaye, Founder of Maison Maraz
- Yasmine Cissé, UDA Vice President and entrepreneur
Spin-offs from the Bamako Fashion and Design Forum
The benefits of the Bamako Fashion and Design Forum are manifold. Firstly, it offers unprecedented visibility to African designers, enabling them to forge partnerships and develop their professional network. Secondly, it reinforces Mali’s image as a fashion destination in Africa. Finally, it stimulates the local economy by generating jobs and fostering the development of the creative industry.
Akim Soul’s vision
Thanks to his energy, vision and commitment, Akim Soul has succeeded in positioning Bamako as a fashion capital of Africa. His influence extends far beyond the borders of Mali. He has become a benchmark in the world of African fashion, inspiring many young designers to follow in his footsteps.
The future of African fashion looks bright. More and more young African designers are making their mark on the international scene. Thanks to initiatives such as the Bamako Fashion and Design Forum, the African fashion industry is in full mutation. The challenges are still many, but the opportunities are immense.
The Fashion and Design Forum embodies the future of African fashion. By fostering creativity, innovation and collaboration, it contributes to making African creativity shine throughout the world.
credit: Mariah Bocoum & Ikalook
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