Africa is getting its own Project Runway.
A new edition of the hit fashion design competition show, Project Runway Africa, is set to launch next year, showcasing emerging African designer talent from across the continent.
Takeout Media and What Network will produce the African version of the show through their single-purpose vehicle Take Two Media, which licensed the format from global producer and distributor Fremantle.
“This isn’t just a television show, it’s a cultural moment,” said Project Runway Africa co-executive producer Chichi Nwoko, saying the show would highlight Africa’s rapidly evolving fashion ecosystem and present designers with an opportunity for expert mentorship.
“Africa’s fashion industry is one of the fastest-growing in the world, fueled by a dynamic, young audience and rich cultural influences,” said Nwoko. “With Project Runway Africa, we’re creating a platform that celebrates the continent’s boundless creativity, empowering designers to bring their visions to life and share their unique voices with viewers across Africa and beyond.”
Added co-executive producer Elijah Affi: “We’re creating a platform to showcase how African designers reimagine global fashion through their unique perspectives and cultural richness. This is more than television; it’s about amplifying African voices in the global fashion conversation and creating pathways for our talented designers to reach new heights.”
The competition will be open to African designers aged between 21 and 40. Details of the first season, including the shooting location, are being kept under wraps. For further details, visit www.projectrunway.com.
Created by Spyglass Media Group, Project Runway launched in the U.S. on Bravo in 2004 and has run for 20 seasons — including an 11-season stint on Lifetime from 2009 to 2017 — before being rebooted on Freeform, Disney+ and Hulu for season 21, which airs next year. The show has spawned more than 30 international adaptations.
The show has a solid track record in discovering and launching design careers, with previous winners such as Christian Siriano, Irina Shabayeva and Leanne Marshall, going on to create successful fashion brands.
“Project Runway is known globally for launching careers, and this new chapter in Africa will open doors for designers to make their mark,” said Anahita Kheder, Fremantle‘s executive vp, EMEA, formats and licensing and international.
Source: Hollywoodreporter
