UK-Africa Fashion Residency Connects Designers Across Continents

The British Council, in partnership with Paul Smith’s Foundation and Projekt, has announced the launch of Creative DNA x Studio Smithfield, a new international exchange programme designed to connect emerging fashion designers from the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.

The programme, which began from March 16 to 23, 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, brings together six designers to collaborate, share expertise, and build long-term creative and professional relationships. It also reflects a broader effort to position London as a truly global fashion hub rooted in equal partnership rather than one-directional knowledge transfer.

According to Farai Ncube, Regional Arts Director at the British Council, the initiative aligns with efforts to strengthen the creative economy across Africa and the UK. By focusing on collaboration, skills exchange, and cultural understanding, the programme aims to support designers in building sustainable businesses and accessing global markets.

Designers and Programme Structure

The selected designers include Solome Asfaw (Ethiopia), Reneta Brehna (UK), Chido Kaseke (Zimbabwe), Bettydora Odhiambo (Kenya), Karoline Vitto (UK), and YAKU (UK). They were chosen through a jury process involving representatives from the British Council, Projekt, and Paul Smith’s Foundation.

Participants will benefit from:

• Direct access to industry leaders, buyers, and media

• Structured mentorship through Paul Smith’s Foundation network

• Production support and access to facilities

• Showcasing opportunities and six months of post-programme commercial guidance

Industry Backing and Global Exposure

Ibrahim Kamara, Creative Director of Off-White, highlighted the value of the initiative, noting the importance of cultural exchange in shaping the future of fashion.

The designers will also take part in the Fashion Residency at Studio Smithfield, a flagship business development programme created by the Mayor of London, Projekt, and Paul Smith’s Foundation, with support from British GQ and the City of London Corporation. The residency offers free studio space for 18 months alongside over 80 hours of expert-led business training.

Nick Hartwright, CEO of Projekt, emphasized the importance of providing accessible creative spaces and infrastructure to help designers grow sustainable businesses.

A Shift from Traditional Mentorship

Unlike conventional mentorship programmes, Creative DNA x Studio Smithfield focuses on peer-to-peer learning. Designers from the UK and Africa exchange insights on sustainability, traditional craftsmanship, digital innovation, and the realities of their respective markets.

This approach combines practical studio work with cultural immersion and reflective learning, enabling participants to refine both their creative direction and commercial strategy.

Martha Mosse, Director of Paul Smith’s Foundation, noted that the initiative reinforces the value of shared knowledge and collaborative growth in the global fashion ecosystem.

Building a More Inclusive Global Fashion Industry

At its core, the programme is built on the principle of creative equality. By encouraging collaboration rather than hierarchy, it aims to expand participants’ skills while strengthening cross-cultural understanding.

As global fashion continues to evolve, initiatives like Creative DNA x Studio Smithfield signal a shift toward more inclusive, connected, and sustainable industry practices—where talent from different regions can engage on equal footing and grow together.