FUN, FIERCE, FANTASTICAL
In last year’s TED talk, African storyteller and creative maverick Wanuri Kahiu questioned why people only hear about Africa’s problems and asked instead, “Where’s the fun?” – and that’s exactly the frivolous spirit we’re embracing at this year’s We Are Africa. Inspired by her offbeat yet empowering worldview, the theme for 2018 is summed up in three words: Fun, Fierce, Fantastical.
Africa is a bold, confident and energetic continent, and we want to celebrate its inspirational stories and eclectic expressions of African-ness; to transform the perception of those living on the continent and abroad; to show the world that Africa is the future.
THE DRESS CODE: Think explosions of colour, vibrant patterns, bold and beautiful African prints. Express yourself: be daring, don’t be shy, and above all, have fun! Come and show us what Fun, Fierce, Fantastical means to you at We Are Africa 2018!
VIBE POP-UP SHOP
Discover a sensational selection of African clothing, accessories, bags and homeware brands that celebrate the continent’s contemporary spirit of diversity, creativity and experimentation.
Need some Fun, Fierce, Fantastical inspiration? Then here’s a taste of the African brands you’ll be able to find at VIBE (located just inside the show entrance). Watch this space, more brands will be added…
Bili Beadwear
Bili Beadwear handcrafts removable bra straps. The straps are a comfortable ‘worn to be seen’ accessory designed to replace standard bra straps with a colourful and comfortable alternative to attach to strapless bras.
Dionne Campbell-Young
Designer,artist,collector and co-owner of unique boutique “Alchymia”
Lightfoot Zambia
Lightfoot Zambia’s little workshop is set alongside the organic vegetable garden at Sugar Bush Farm, where a handful of trained craftsmen construct the bags.
Mulberry Mongoose
Our jewellery is inspired by life in the Zambian bush. So it’s only fitting that with every piece of jewellery sold we make a donation to anti-poaching patrols to help remove the snare wire traps that kill and injure many of the area’s iconic wildlife.
Saskia Buxton
Head to VIBE on 17 May to have a head wrap done, just in time for the spectacular Closing Party.
Soul Design
Soul Design has emerged into a bespoke collection of jewellery that draws its inspiration from the colours, textures and styles of Africa.
Z’BRO
The men’s fashion brand for those who dare to express and differentiate themselves though fashion. The Guys Brand Girls Want!
Lalesso
Beautiful bright fabrics made into stylish African inspired clothing. Handmade on the continent.
Hickman & Bousfield
Handmade in Africa – the ultimate in luxury stylish safari clothing
Imprint
An African luxury fashion brand that was created to celebrate the glamour as well as to tell the stories of our African ancestors
AYA
The name Aya means fern and it is inspired by the Adinkra symbols of the Ashanti people in Ghana.
Tari Designs
Handmade clothing using African fabrics. Supports local production.
Temple of Reason
Handmade in South Africa inspired by African patterns
Joanna Hedley
Handmade in South Africa inspired by African patterns
Ballo Sunglasses
BALLO- ethical eyewear made from recycled & up-cycled materials. Made with love, by hand, in Cape Town.