From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Nigeria and ECOWAS, in collaboration with EU member states in Nigeria and the Fashion Academy, Abuja, has extended invitation to young Nigerian designers to participate in their fashion competition tagged: ‘Afro-Euro Runway’.
The competition, according to statement from EU, feeds into the theme of this year’s Europe day celebration, “European Year of Skills” aimed at promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, key values for both Africa and Europe.
The EU explained that the competition will provide an excellent platform for designers to showcase their collections, promote their brand, and network with industry professionals, the European Union and its member states, as well as connect with fashion enthusiasts.
“Designers are expected to create collections inspired by the theme, which can be interpreted in various ways, including a particular era, culture, or style,” the EU said.
The EU added that the selection criteria for participation in the competition include the professionalism, uniqueness, and quality of collections, as well as the relevance of the collections to the theme.
“The show will feature models of different beauty standards, age, disabilities, gender and body types. Applicants must be Nigerian citizens living in the country, between the ages of 18 and 40 years, and must apply online through the call website: https://afroeurorunway.org/ before May 30,” it said.
EU stated that eight finalists would be selected to participate in the fashion runway show/awards ceremony in Abuja on June 16, 2023, with all expenses covered for non-Abuja residents.
It said judges will consider design, aesthetics, creativity, originality, inclusivity, and ability to interpret the theme (Afro-Euro) as well as previous works in their selection process, while the EU will provide logistics support such as backstage facilities, space for shortlisted participants to exhibit and sell their collections, as well as professional photography and videography.