On the evening of 14 March 2026, Creative DNA (CDNA), a partnership between the Bold Woman Fund, the British Council, and Bold in Africa, convened designers, mentors, industry stakeholders and supporters at Onomo Hotel for an intimate yet powerful showcase. More than a fashion event, the evening marked a celebration of growth, collaboration, and the creative journeys of designers who are part of the programme.

At its heart, the showcase brought together six designers; Sawe Collections, KIJANA, Ntale, Shurea, Amelia, and Joan Jade, each presenting work that reflects their evolving identities as designers and entrepreneurs. Alongside them, a wider group of creatives collaborated on accessories, from jewellery to bags, reinforcing the programme’s emphasis on ecosystem-building. The result was not just a runway presentation, but a layered expression of what becomes possible when emerging designers are supported with the tools, networks, and confidence to create and present their work at a high level.

The defining moment of the evening and its creative centrepiece was the unveiling of a collaborative sustainable capsule collection. Developed by multiple designers using repurposed fabrics provided through the programme, the capsule embodied CDNA’s commitment to sustainability as both a creative and practical approach to design.

The collection stood out for its bold, clean aesthetic. Each piece carried a distinct point of view, yet together they formed a cohesive narrative, demonstrating how shared materials and a light-touch creative direction can spark innovation rather than limit it. The designers approached sustainability not as a constraint, but as a catalyst, transforming available resources into garments that were both aspirational and commercially viable.

In doing so, the capsule collection became more than a set of looks; it was a statement of intent. It signalled a shift towards responsible design practices while maintaining a strong emphasis on quality, wearability, and market relevance.

While the capsule collection provided a unifying thread, the showcase also created space for individual expression. Each of the six featured designers brought forward work that reflected their unique aesthetic and growth throughout the programme.

From structured silhouettes to fluid forms, and from understated elegance to bold experimentation, the collections highlighted the diversity of creative voices within the CDNA cohort. Accessories from collaborating designers further enriched the presentation, adding depth and reinforcing the value of cross-disciplinary partnerships.

This balance between individuality and collaboration is a defining strength of the programme. It allows designers to build their own brands while contributing to a shared creative vision.

The evening opened with a pop up market, where designers presented and sold their work directly to guests. This created an immediate point of engagement between designers and audiences, allowing attendees to connect with the pieces in a tangible way while generating early sales.

With 65 invited guests, the event was intentionally intimate, creating space for meaningful engagement. Attendees included CDNA beneficiaries, alumni, mentors, trainers, members of the British Council community, and influencers who have supported the programme’s journey.

The setting encouraged connection between designers and potential buyers, between creatives and collaborators, and between the programme and its wider ecosystem. Conversations extended beyond the runway, opening up opportunities for partnerships, visibility, and continued growth.

Outcomes from the evening included direct sales through the pop up market and new industry connections, reinforcing the programme’s approach of pairing creative development with tangible market access.

Voices from the Experience

For many of the designers, the showcase was both a milestone and a moment of reflection. “This showcase has given me a new appreciation for the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to our growth,” shared one CDNA beneficiary.

From the audience, the response was equally powerful in its simplicity. “It was beautiful,” remarked a guest, capturing the emotional impact of the evening. These reflections speak to the deeper value of the programme: not only the skills and outputs it generates, but the confidence, perspective, and sense of possibility it instills.

Extending the Moment: Public Installation and Closing Gathering

Following the showcase, selected pieces from the runway are currently on display at Yamasen in Muyenga, extending the life of the collection beyond the event and inviting wider public engagement with the work.