By Featuring a host of compelling and informative panel discussions, talks, and debates, visitors will gain powerful insights into the latest developments in the textiles and fashion industry on the African continent.
Highlights on 10th September include:
- Panel Discussion at 13:00: Founded in 2012 as a key initiative to boost intra-African trade and promote socio-economic growth development, the panel of speakers discusses the impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on MSMEs through regional value chains in the textile and clothing industry. Hosted by Mark Golliath, Head of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and joining him on the panel are Nerisha Jairaj, Executive Director of the South African Footwear & Leather Export Council (SAFLEC) and Jackie May, Director, Founder, and Editor of Twyg. Twyg is a niche publication focused on storytelling, content production, and networking to champion kinder, fairer, inclusive, diverse and nature-friendly futures.
Highlights on 11th September include:
- Panel Discussion at 10:00: The Journey to Sustainability. The topic of green manufacturing, ethical sourcing, and lean practices in South Africa’s fashion and textile sector will be hosted by fashion industry expert Cyril Naicker, joined by Seeland’s Tim Coles, ENS’s Carlyn Fritelli-Davies, and Network 360’s Matthew Hazel.
- Talk at 11:00: Supplier Enterprise Development. Kyle Ballard of BM Analysts explains how Business Accelerator programmes can find and develop future, local suppliers, whilst simultaneously optimising B-BBEE outcomes.
- Talk at 12:15: The much-anticipated WGSN talk delivered by Sithandiwe Khumalo, leading womenswear strategist. Promising inspiration and forward-thinking insights, Sithandiwe will address trade strategies that are most effective while promoting sustainability in the ever-evolving African fashion landscape.
- Panel Discussion at 14:30: Hosted by the IDC’s Business Development Manager, Nicole Moonsamy, the panel, including Tamburai Chirune, debates the impact, conversion, and potential of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, legislation that was approved by the U.S. Congress in May 2000 to assist sub-Saharan African economies and improve economic relations between the United States and the region.
Also taking place at midday on 11 September, the much-anticipated allfashion sourcing Young Designer Final is judged on the mainstage by Tamburai Chirume, Carlyn Fritelli-Davies and Cyril Naicker. Tamburai Chirume is the co-founder of ONEOFEACH, a local sustainable luxury brand; Carlyn Frittelli Davies is a law consultant at ENS specializing in natural resources and environmental practices; Cyril Naicker is a renowned fashion accelerator, incubator, and sustainability consultant with over 20 years’ industry experience.
Celebrating its seventh anniversary, the afs Young Designers Competition is sponsored by ENS with prizes valued at over R270k. Open to designers graduating in 2024, or who have graduated during the past 5 years, or are currently part of a design internship program, the design brief encourages contestants to transcend the boundaries of imitation and delve into the vast realm of creativity “Through the Lens of Africa”. The challenge is to create a sustainable fashion collection that celebrates the rich heritage of local craftsmanship while fostering a commitment to the environment, emphasizing the use of eco-friendly fabrics. Designers must deliver a harmonious narrative that sustains both tradition and the planet.
As the premier marketplace for the global textile and fashion community, allfashion sourcing 2024 serves as a dynamic platform where sustainable African creativity, design excellence, and international sourcing options unite, inviting visitors to an all-under-one-roof experience.
For more detail about allfashion sourcing, visit our website: www.allfashionsourcing.com