GAFF 2023 Convener Highlights Role of Fashion as Catalyst for Development
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…As Festival Showcases African Fashion Designs, Talents ahead Canada Finals
By Bolaji Israel
Convener of the Glam African Fashion Festival (GAFF), Naomi Olapeju Sigismund, has emphasised the pivotal role of fashion as a catalyst for change and development in the society through creation of opportunities, empowerment and fostering entrepreneurship.
She added that it also aids as a vital enabler of identity, culture, and art.
The fashion promoter fondly called Olori Peju, who doubles as convener for Hope For sure Foundation and the Project Director of African Canada Investment, made the statement while speaking at the 2023 edition of the GAFF Fashion Festival Nigeria which held in Lagos at the weekend ahead of the grand finale in Canada.
She stated: “The GAFF festival is more than just fashion. It is about empowerment. It is about celebrating the untapped potential within our communities and providing a platform for emerging designers to shine. It is about creating opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and transforming lives. Through fashion, we can uplift and inspire, promoting economic growth, cultural exchange and development.” 
“Fashion has always been a powerful expression of identity, culture, and art. It transcends boundaries, connects people, and tells stories that are deeply rooted in our heritage.
“The Glam African Fashion Festival is a testament to the richness and diversity of African fashion, showcasing the incredible talents and creativity of designers from across the continent,” Sigismund noted.
During the event which had many colourful African fashion designs and talents on display, popular fashion icons and designers including Modela Couture, Mankatah-di-nane, Kudos Clothing, Prince Kevin and Tinuade Fayomade promoted their talents and latest designs to the world.
It also featured dazzling displays of craftsmanship, innovation, and passion, ranging from breathtaking traditional ensembles to cutting-edge contemporary designs, with the runway coming alive with a kaleidoscope of colours, textures, and patterns that encapsulated the essence of Africa. 
Speaking further, the Convener explained that the event was designed to showcase creativity, diversity and richness of African fashion and also helps designers to exhibit their work through collaboration with international fashion brands.
She said the event seeks to celebrate the vibrant spirit, ingenuity, and beauty of African fashion, urging Nigerians to appreciate the models to enable Nigeria take world stage.
Sigismund said: “Tonight, as the models grace the runway, let us applaud their artistry and embrace the vision of a future where African fashion takes its rightful place on the world stage. Let us be inspired, captivated, and moved by the talent that lies within our borders.”
The Convener also reassured of her commitments to promoting the continent for significant changes through fashion and lifestyle. 
She stated: “I stand here today as a proud African woman, deeply committed to promoting the beauty and creativity of our continent. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and redefine the global fashion landscape.”
The glamorous event was also graced by dignitaries including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, represented by Otunba Moses Olafare; movie star Mercy Aigbe and husband, Adekaz; Chief Obani Oluwabiyi, Anthony Boyede Greenlyte, Adjua fadojutimi, Lolami Agbalajobi, Jumia murmurni, and Hon Ola Kukoyi.
Meanwhile, a female physically challenged online content creator and artist, Abosede Okeowo was empowered with an award for her sketching talents while some others were given merit awards.
Outstanding designers from the event will participate in the GAFF event in Ontario, Canada, which will hold from November 7th to 12th in conjunction with the African Canada Investment Expo & Summit.” 
“The African Canada Investment Expo & Summit is a prestigious business gathering, bridging the gap between African businesses and Canadian investors. This premier event creates conducive platform for networking, business growth and investment prospects between African and Canadian enterprises.
Other designers at the event include Afolabi Adesanya Temitope, Qudus Olamilekan Jamiu, David Patience Oke,
Akindele Toyin Felicia, Bisola Adesola, Seyi Lawal, Atanda Olaoluwa Emmanuel, Austin Nortey, Gideon Jwine Wulu, Mankatah Di Naire, Abigail Kyere,
Lydia Adiku, Kwasi Aidoo Whyte, Joseph Agbo, Omolara Odoh,Theatre Centrik led by Olayinka Esther Boyede and Bold ideas
Other dignitaries include Senator Lekan Mustapha, Prince Adesegun Oniru, Alhaji Aminu Olatunji Afeez, Ms Mocha Brown, Mr oluwaseye Kehinde, Mr Abdul Abiola, Prince Festus Olorunfemi, Princess Folashade Ogunwusi Fadairo, Apostle Abosede Oshinowo, Dr Akin Faminu, Fatima ishiaku and others.
