Sèmè City and Institut Français de la Mode join forces to transform the fashion industry in Africa

Sèmè City, has announced an emblematic partnership with the Institut Français de la Mode (IFM), marking a decisive turning point in Africa's fashion landscape. Together, they are launching the FLY (Fashion Led by Youth) incubation program, an innovative initiative designed to support young fashion designers in the region. This partnership illustrates not only Sèmè City's commitment to the emergence of local talent, but also Benin's position as a new cultural and textile crossroads in Africa.

A springboard for young African designers

The FLY program is aimed at young creative entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 living in Benin or other West African countries. The program is designed for individuals looking to develop innovative products and services in the fashion sector, including apparel, textiles, jewelry, accessories, as well as distribution, marketing and lifestyle aspects.

With a call for applications open until April 19, 2024, the program offers a unique opportunity to access a network of international experts and benefit from practical support in creating and launching new projects. Beneficiaries will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the latest fashion trends and acquire entrepreneurial skills crucial to success in a constantly evolving sector.

Comprehensive, personalized support

The year-long FLY program includes intensive coaching. Participants will benefit from two five-day face-to-face group sessions in Sèmè City, led by IFM professors and experts. These sessions offer an in-depth immersion in current fashion practices and strategies.

In addition to the face-to-face sessions, young designers will have access to a digital toolbox containing self-contained methodological content, as well as collective coaching sessions via videoconferencing with IFM experts. Ongoing individual coaching will also be provided throughout the program, offering personalized advice tailored to each project. Participants will also benefit from a dedicated workspace on the Sèmè City campus, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and collaboration.

Boosting Benin's fashion industry

This partnership with IFM marks a decisive step in the development of the fashion industry in Benin, a country already distinguished by its textile production and its growing role as a cultural crossroads in Africa. By joining the FLY program, Sèmè City reinforces its position as an essential platform for the development of the region's creative talent, and establishes Benin as a major fashion player on the African continent.

The collaboration between Sèmè City and the Institut Français de la Mode is more than a simple initiative; it represents a qualitative leap for Beninese and African fashion, propelling the region onto the international stage and giving young designers the tools they need to spread their creativity beyond borders.

Photo credit: Sèmè City