The Business of Fashion (BoF) has unveiled its much-anticipated BoF 500 Class of 2025, and once again, Africa stands proudly in the spotlight. This year’s list features a remarkable lineup of visionaries from Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa, each redefining what it means to be influential in the ever-evolving global fashion industry.
Every year, BoF welcomes 100 new names to its prestigious index — a definitive guide to the most powerful and creative forces shaping fashion worldwide. The 2025 edition marks a noticeable shift in fashion’s global axis, highlighting the growing influence of the Global South, with Africa leading the cultural and creative charge.
“This is our most global group of industry shapers yet,” said Imran Amed, Founder and CEO of The Business of Fashion, as he highlighted the inclusion of new inductees from countries such as Cameroon and Panama, a reflection of fashion’s evolution into a truly borderless and inclusive industry.
Nigerian Powerhouses in the BoF 500 Class of 2025
Nigeria continues to be a driving force in global culture — from music and film to fashion — and the BoF 500 Class of 2025 confirms that momentum. This year’s Nigerian honourees are not just talented; they’re global storytellers whose influence spans art, style, and innovation.
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Ayra Starr – The celestial Afropop sensation has conquered music charts and is now captivating fashion audiences with her fearless style and futuristic flair.
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Tems – A Grammy winner and Oscar nominee, Tems embodies effortless sophistication. Her blend of artistry and authenticity continues to redefine what it means to be a modern African creative.
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Daniel Obasi – Known for his ethereal visuals and Afrofuturist narratives, Obasi’s work as a stylist, photographer, and art director cements him as one of Nigeria’s most imaginative fashion voices.
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Grace Ladoja – The cultural strategist and founder of Metallic Inc. bridges the Nigerian and British creative worlds, managing some of the most influential names in music and shaping contemporary storytelling.
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Seni Saraki & “Teezee” Teni Zaccheaus – Co-founders of Native Networks, the duo are reimagining African youth culture, blending fashion, media, and music into a powerful new global narrative.
African Excellence on the Global Stage
Beyond Nigeria, other trailblazers from across the continent are equally making waves. These creatives represent Africa’s evolving identity in fashion — innovative, diverse, and globally relevant.
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Ibby Njoya (Cameroon) – The UK-based art director continues to push visual boundaries, crafting imaginative campaigns that challenge convention.
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Katungulu Mwendwa (Kenya) – Founder of Katush, she merges sustainability with East African design heritage, promoting conscious fashion on an international scale.
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Mahlet Teklemariam (Ethiopia) – As the founder of Hub of Africa Fashion Week, Teklemariam champions new and emerging African designers, creating a vital platform for the continent’s next generation.
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Mamuor Majeng (South Sudan) – A rising model whose grace and presence redefine global beauty standards while representing the new face of African elegance.
From Lagos to Nairobi, Addis Ababa to London, Africa’s creative energy continues to ripple across borders, influencing how the world sees fashion, identity, and innovation.
The BoF 500 Class of 2025 isn’t just a list — it’s a testament to the power of African creativity and the continent’s growing role in shaping the future of global fashion.
