British Council Creative DNA

We are delighted to welcome back our partnership with the British Council’s Creative DNA Programme as part of Africa Fashion Week London 2026 with a collaboration that continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of African fashion.

In the lead-up to the AFWL2026 live shows, the British Council offices in Stratford will become a dynamic hub of creativity and exchange, hosting four days of activations designed to support, challenge and elevate participating designers.

Across the continent, there is no shortage of creativity. What is often missing, however, is structured access to industry knowledge, international markets, manufacturing networks and sustainable pathways to scale.  The Creative DNA Programme responds directly to this need, supporting designers not just as creatives but as entrepreneurs navigating a complex global industry.  It is this kind of intentional investment that is critical to unlocking Africa’s full creative and economic potential.

We welcome the new cohort of designers from Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe and Kenya.

British Council (@southernafricaarts @eastafricaarts @britishcouncilet @ngbritisharts @britisharts)