( AFRICA FASHION UP) - Africa Fashion Up, the must-attend event for contemporary African fashion in Paris, announces the launch of its call for applications for its 6th edition, organized in collaboration with the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac. Led by the association Share Africa, the program has been spotlighting, for the past five years, emerging African fashion talents and propelling them onto the international stage. For this new edition, applications are open from February 17 to April 17, 2026.

Founded in 2020 by French-Ivorian top model Valérie KA Valérie KA, Africa Fashion Up has established itself as a unique platform dedicated to supporting and showcasing the most promising African designers. The 2026 edition continues this mission by offering selected designers an immersive experience combining training, mentoring, and exclusive encounters with key stakeholders in the French and international fashion industries.

A booming fashion market reflecting boundless creativity

African fashion is now emerging as a major creative and economic force. Driven by a young population, rapid urbanization, and a growing middle class, Africa’s fashion market—valued at $31 billion in 2020—continues to expand steadily. At the same time, the rise of e-commerce and the growing global appetite for African design are creating new opportunities for designers, enabling them to export their talent and establish their signature on the world stage.

With more than 24 countries represented, 40 designers supported, and more than 850 applications received in previous editions, Africa Fashion Up has become a true talent incubator for the continent. In 2026, the program will celebrate this momentum, highlighting a fashion scene that seamlessly blends innovation with cultural heritage.

A unique opportunity for African designers

The program is open to young African designers, stylists, and creatives eager to expand their vision beyond the continent. Following a rigorous selection process led by an international jury, five talents will be chosen to take part in a one-week immersive experience in Paris.

This experience includes masterclasses and awakening sessions delivered by leading figures in the industry, meetings with renowned fashion houses, and exclusive visits to program partners, including Balenciaga, HEC Paris, Galeries Lafayette, and Istituto Marangoni.

The highlight of the program will be an exceptional runway show in Paris, where the laureates will unveil their collections, showcasing their craftsmanship and their commitment to innovative and responsible fashion.

A springboard to international recognition

Since its inception, Africa Fashion Up has contributed to the emergence of designers who are now making their mark on the international scene, amplifying their visibility and strengthening their global presence.

"We are proud to see the impact that Africa Fashion Up has had on the careers of many African designers. This 6th edition will once again highlight the richness and diversity of African fashion, while equipping emerging talents with concrete tools to grow their brands and access new markets,” says Valérie KA, Founder of Share Africa.

How to apply?

For this new edition, applications are open in two categories:

-Fashion Young Leader: Designed for emerging African fashion designers or members of the diaspora seeking greater visibility and brand structuring support.
-Best African Designer: Reserved for more established designers. Applicants in this category must have a registered company, retail distribution, and a strong and visible social media presence.

Designers wishing to take part in this journey can submit their applications online via the program’s official website: link

About Africa Fashion Up:

Africa Fashion Up, initiated by Valérie Ka, is a support and coaching program designed to assist young African designers. It is also the first major Parisian event dedicated to contemporary African fashion, aiming to promote and encourage this booming scene.

About Share Africa:

SHARE AFRICA is a platform dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and creativity in Africa, highlighting a young, innovative, and sustainable vision of the continent.
For more information on the winners and AFUP, please visit the official website: https://africafashionup.com/