Christie Brown Academy concludes inaugural pilot of empowering Ghana’s fashion future
The Christie Brown Academy (CBA), a pioneering initiative redefining fashion education in Africa, has concluded the pilot phase of its second cohort of emerging fashion entrepreneurs with a highly anticipated graduation fashion show scheduled for Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Accra Marriott Hotel.
The Academy, launched in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is equipping a new generation of African creatives—particularly young women and economically disadvantaged individuals—with the tools to thrive in the competitive global fashion industry.
The grand showcase will feature debut collections designed by the graduating students, each garment reflecting bold creativity, sustainability, and a distinct celebration of African identity and craftsmanship.
“This moment marks the dawn of a new era in fashion education — not just for Ghana, but for the entire continent,” said Aisha Ayensu, Director of the Christie Brown Academy. “Our participants have shown that African fashion is more than art; it’s a powerful tool for transformation — one that can tackle societal challenges and ignite the growth of resilient, sustainable communities.”
The graduation event is the culmination of months of hands-on training in contemporary fashion design, sustainability practices, entrepreneurship, and mentorship. The CBA curriculum is tailored to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity by ensuring that graduates are not only creative but also business-ready.
Since its inception, the Christie Brown Academy has positioned itself as a beacon of inclusive and impact-driven fashion education. Its mission is clear: to prepare African youth to build globally competitive fashion brands and elevate Ghana and the continent as influential players in the global fashion economy.
The pilot programme has placed a strong emphasis on innovation, equipping its students with the skills to integrate local materials, technology, and storytelling into garments that not only inspire but also challenge the norms of mainstream fashion.
Founded by one of Ghana’s most celebrated fashion houses, the Academy draws on Christie Brown’s legacy of design excellence and international acclaim. The partnership with the Mastercard Foundation is enabling the academy to expand access to fashion education while creating pathways for economic empowerment.
As the graduating cohort takes to the runway, the event is expected to attract stakeholders across the creative industries, investors, fashion enthusiasts, and supporters of youth empowerment.
With the successful conclusion of the pilot, the Christie Brown Academy is laying the groundwork for future cohorts and cementing its vision of a dynamic, inclusive fashion ecosystem that represents Africa’s voice, values, and vision on the world stage.
