Five emerging female fashion designers from Nigeria's grassroots are poised for a significant career transformation. This follows a N7.5 million empowerment intervention launched by the Turkish company, Silkcoat, in collaboration with Threads of Africa Fashion Week.
Breaking Barriers in the Fashion Value Chain
The initiative, officially presented at a ceremony in Abuja, is designed specifically to address the common challenges faced by women at the base of the industry. These include limited access to formal training, startup capital, and visibility within Nigeria's bustling creative sector.
Mr. Baris Yerlikaya, Silkcoat's Marketing and Sales Manager in Nigeria, stated that the program aims to dismantle structural obstacles that hinder women's full participation and growth. "When women are empowered with skills and resources, they build businesses that sustain families and communities," Yerlikaya emphasized.
He revealed that the comprehensive support package, valued at approximately N1.5 million per beneficiary, will cover areas such as:
- Professional fashion and design training
- Provision of essential equipment
- Business branding and setup support
Pathway to Global Recognition and Sustainability
Mr. Aminu Aminu, Director of Administration at Threads of Africa Fashion Week, highlighted that the partnership marks a conscious move towards gender-responsive investment in Africa's creative economy. The selected women, from various regions of Nigeria, will undergo structured skill development aimed at transitioning them from informal practice to established entrepreneurship.
"This intervention is about polishing raw talent, building confidence and positioning these women for global recognition and partnerships," Aminu explained.
The beneficiaries will be formally introduced at the Threads of Africa Fashion Week 2025, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. This platform will allow them to showcase their creations to potential investors and collaborators from across Africa and beyond.
To ensure long-term impact, the women will receive certifications from government-accredited training centres and universities. This formal validation is expected to enhance their credibility with financiers and partners. Furthermore, engagements are ongoing with relevant ministries to facilitate international collaboration and support.
A Broader Commitment to Women's Empowerment
Yerlikaya noted that this fashion initiative aligns with Silkcoat's wider commitment to women-focused programs in Nigeria and Africa. He described Nigeria as a key creative hub where many talented female designers remain sidelined due to a lack of capital, mentorship, and networks.
Beyond fashion, the company has invested in community projects benefiting women and children, including the construction of over 100 water boreholes in parts of northern Nigeria. This effort aims to alleviate water scarcity and improve school attendance for girls.
Ultimately, for the five chosen designers, this program represents more than just financial aid. It offers a crucial pathway to legitimacy, visibility, and integration into the global fashion economy, demonstrating how targeted investment in women can yield substantial economic and social dividends.
