It was a morning to mingle, exchange ideas and pleasantries when the organisers of Arise Fashion Week treated media personalities and fashion enthusiasts to an exclusive pre-event brunch at Circa Non-Pareil, Lekki, Lagos.

The host for the afternoon, Ruth Osime, warmly welcomed guests as she gave a brief rundown on what to expect at the event. 

With the theme ’30 under 30: The New Stars,’ this years’ edition will mark the first time the fashion event is awarding monetary prizes to designers. 

“The whole idea is to help assist young designers in building their brands. We need a breath of fresh air. We need younger people to get into this space and be given the accreditation they certainly deserve,” said Osime.

A total of $500,000 will be awarded to the designers whose creative works will be judged based on aesthetics, presentation and market value.

The prizes will be awarded on the third and final day of the event, Saturday, December 12.

The event will be virtual and broadcast to a worldwide audience on the new ARISEPLAY streaming service and other ARISE/THISDAY platforms. 

Notable names on the runway include Naomi Campbell, Alpha Dia and Alton Mason. Also expected as judges are Reni Folawiyo, Kehinde Wiley, Mobolaji Dawodu, Niyi Okuboyejo and Odion Oseni. 

Efe Tommy, media personality