A Defining Moment for African Fashion
The BoF 500 (The Business of Fashion) is widely regarded as the industry’s definitive index, annually spotlighting visionaries, innovators, and leaders who are redefining the global fashion landscape. Inclusion in this network is a clear marker of impact, leadership, and forward – thinking strategy.
Congratulations to Mahlet Teklemariam, founder and organiser of the Hub of Africa Fashion Week (HAFW) for securing a place on the Business of Fashion (BoF) 500 class of 2025!
Since its inception in 2010, HAFW has been held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as an event promoting African fashion, creativity and entrepreneurship on the international stage. The event also gathers designers from other countries in the wider East African sub region. Diaspora designers who source from the continent are also offered business opportunities.
In addition to B2C initiatives, the programme provides a B2B platform for local and regional fashion talent to connect with industry leaders, including buyers, investors and fashion editors. The annual event consists not only of runway shows but includes exhibitions, workshops, seminars, round-table discussions and networking opportunities.
Comment from Mahlet: “I was very emotional and full of gratitude the day I heard I will be joining the BOF500 class of 2025. What a humbling moment for me to be recognized, along with many fashion industry icons. This could not have come at a better time, as Hub of Africa Fashion Week will be marking its 15th year this January.
Managing and sustaining a fashion week is a difficult endeavor; you have to work extra hard to get all the resources it takes to put such an event together enabling a global impact. I believe HAFW has done that by putting Ethiopian and African fashion on the map. Of course, I don’t organize the event alone; I want to thank my family first, my team, partners, and sponsors who have all helped me. I celebrate this with every designer and creative involved in growing the African fashion industry”.
Sources: https://www.businessoffashion.com/people/mahlet-teklemariam/