The 4th Annual Africa Awards

Thanks to access provided by KibonenNY we headed back to Melrose Arch for the 4^th Annual Africa Fashion Awards on Sunday. It was a night of entertainment, speeches, award-giving and pictures! According to AFI exceptional designers from the continent and the African diaspora are recognized or their contribution to the industry in general through these awards.

Songstress, Lira and her dancers

Young Designer of the Year, Kim Gush

Lindiwe Suttle performing

Lira in a KibonenNY dress

Mo-T and J-Something

Dr Duda on the decks

Chairperson at AFI, Dr Precious Moloi Motsepe

Outstanding Contributor of Fashion Communication, Jackie Burger - ELLE SA

Designer of the Year, Mimi Plange with Dr Zimmerman of Mercedes Benz

Designer of the Year, Ituen Basi & Minister of International Affairs Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane

Ituen's scarf

I’m not sure the reason but for half way through the ceremony at least a quarter of the audience had disappeared. A real pity as I felt the awards/entertainment just got better and ended on a high note.

Other award winners include:

Emerging Designer of the Year (Africa) – Taibo Bacar

Emerging Designer of the Year (International) – Laurence Airline

Male Style Icon of the Year – Khaya Dlulda

Female Style Icon of the Year –  Liya Kebede

Model of the Year – Candice Swanepoel

Fashion Stylist of the Year – Arthur Malun-Murison

Accessories Designer of the Year, Doreen Mashika

Fashion Photographer of the Year – Ross Garrett

Hairstylist of the Year – Kevin Epstein

Make-up Artist of the Year – Lesley Whitby

Outstanding Contribution of Fashion – Simon Denier of SDRphoto