AFI Fastrack 2025/26: Honouring Africa’s rising fashion voices

Africa Fashion International (AFI), the continent’s leading fashion and retail platform, announces the semi-finalists for the 2025/26 AFI Fastrack Prize. This prestigious programme is dedicated to discovering and nurturing Africa’s next generation of fashion designers.

Twelve exceptional young designers successfully navigated a competitive selection process to advance to the next stage of Fastrack. They bring fresh energy to African fashion with bold ideas, strong skills, and unique creative voices. Each one is helping to shape the future of the industry.

Meet the AFI 2025/26 semi-finalists:

• Aidan Jayson Peters (Klein Muis)
• Amkelo Jiyane (Amkelo Jiyane)
• Andria Cindi (Andria Cindi)
• Calvin Cebekhulu (Czene.24)
• Elke Joubert (Elke Joubert)
• Kabelo Legodi (Yung Blood Apparel)
• Kernisha Appel (NISHE by Kernisha Appel)
• Mmabatho Silika (Silika)
• Sydney McDougall (SUN)
• Thulaganyo Sekati (Thulaganyo Sekati)
• Tsholofelo Phala (Tsholofelo Phala)
• Yamkela Mahlelehlele (Maison KOTR)

Industry experts carefully reviewed these designers based on:

• Originality of design and creative direction
• Technical ability and garment construction
• Conceptual clarity and storytelling
• Presentation of portfolio and brand development potential

As part of the programme, the semi-finalists will participate in a development journey that includes:

• Personalised mentorship from leading industry professionals
• Masterclasses and workshops centred on business development, branding, and retail strategy
• The creation of a capsule collection, which will be showcased to a panel of judges, media representatives, and potential buyers

“This year’s semi-finalists reflect the bold ingenuity and craftsmanship that define African fashion today,” says Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Founder and CEO of Africa Fashion International. “The AFI Fastrack Prize is not only about discovering talent, but about investing in it. Fastrack provides real-world experience, retail opportunity, mentorship, and the chance to become a sustainable brand in a highly competitive industry. These designers are more than participants; we have hope that they will be future architects of African luxury and global influence.”

Spotlight on AFI Fastrack Alumni success

Since its inception in 2011, AFI Fastrack has been instrumental in launching the careers of over 80 emerging designers. Notable alumni include:

• Thebe Magugu (2015 alumnus, LVMH Prize winner)
• Rich Mnisi (2014 alumnus, global designer and creative director)
• Shamyra Moodley (2021 winner, stocked by House of Nala & Galeries Lafayette)
• Loice Dube(2023/24 winner, designer for AFI Privé)
• Other alumni include Khothatso Tsotetsi, Tuelo Nguyuza, Siyabonga Mtshali, Keneuoe Mhletswa, Sindi Serape, and Kim Gush.

The winning designer will receive the coveted AFI Fastrack Prize 2025/26, alongside career-defining opportunities including access to training under the NALA Privé Atelier.