Namibia’s fashion industry is making waves on the international stage, and the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week has been instrumental in propelling local designers to global recognition.
From 3-5 October, director of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week Alvaro Mukoroli will be representing Namibia at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow.
This prestigious global event, the largest of its kind for emerging fashion markets, will bring together industry leaders, fashion associations, manufacturers, designers and experts from around the world to discuss the future of fashion.
“I’m truly honoured and excited to be part of the BRICS+ Fashion Summit. It’s a unique opportunity to engage
with global leaders in the fashion industry, and being invited to share my thoughts and experiences feels like a validation of all the work we’ve been doing in Namibia. It’s not only a great personal milestone, but also a chance to represent my country on a larger stage,” he said.
The summit offers a comprehensive business programme, an international exhibition showcasing cultural codes in fashion design, and educational events.
Mukoroli will be participating in the summit to foster cooperation within the fashion industry, strengthen cultural and business ties, and address pressing issues like innovation and sustainable development.
As a key event for emerging fashion markets, the summit focusses on the challenges and achievements of talented individuals, designers and companies within the industry.
Namibia’s expertise in fashion and culture will be invaluable in supporting emerging designer brands on a global scale.
Summit discussions will also delve into topics such as artificial intelligence, investment and manufacturing.
“I’m looking forward to meaningful conversations around how fashion can be a powerful vehicle for cross-cultural exchange and economic growth. My hope is to learn from the experiences of others, while also showcasing what Namibia and Africa, as a whole, can bring to the global fashion scene. I’m also keen on exploring potential collaborations that can elevate local designers, and connect them with international markets,” he said.
He added: “This opportunity means a lot – both personally and for the Namibian fashion industry. For me, it’s a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and gain insights that can help us innovate and grow.
“For the industry, it highlights that Namibia is being noticed on the international stage. It’s a step forward in gaining recognition and creating opportunities for our designers, models and creatives to shine globally”.
“I see this summit as a critical moment to bridge the gap between Namibia and the broader fashion world. It’s an opportunity to not only expand our network, but also to bring back valuable lessons that can foster growth in our local industry – from sustainable practices to global trends and marketing strategies,” he said.