You may think its only women who are interested in fashion and style. Men love fashion too and would do anything to invest in quality and stylish pieces. Inspired by the need to create a platform for the menswear market while promoting talented African designers and creatives globally, Nana Mensah, founded Ghana Menswear Week (formerly Accra Mens Fashion Week) in 2016. It was launched by then Dep. Minister of Tourism, Hon. Gzifa Ablah Gomashie in Accra.
After four successful events it is back this year for the 5th edition after postponing last year’s event due to the outbreak of Covid19. Despite making in-roads into the Ghanaian fashion industry as the most recognised event exclusive for menswear designers and creatives, Nana Mensah admits that companies are still dragging their feet in partnering such events. He said, “Brands and companies haven’t still grasped the idea of leveraging on fashion to promote their businesses in Ghana. It’s been a very challenging journey so far getting sponsorship and support from individuals and corporate organizations but that has not stopped us from delivering a globally competitive event while living up to the dream of offering a space for creatives to thrive”
Nana Mensah believes that this year’s event is one of a kind because of the current dispensation we find ourselves. He shares, “This year’s event is a special edition because of its virtual nature and being premiered on selected partner online platforms globally. And just like previous editions, it will assemble the best of Ghanaian and African menswear and accessories designers to showcase their latest collections to a global audience.
Dubbed the #VirtualShowcase designers leading the runway include, Quophi Akotuah Ghana, Bushai Weave, Eccentric Clothing, In Tema We Trust, Kojo Boadi, Saint Mensah by Nana, Woodin Ready To Wear collection (all from Ghana) and Elbryt (Nigeria) as well our two (2) finalist for our Style Man Project designer competition.
The event is proudly sponsored by Ghana’s number one fabric brand, Woodin Ghana and Mobile Telephone giant TECNO Mobile Ghana and digitally partnered by www.melangeafrica.com, our official online partner.
As part of the event will be a virtual “Business of Fashion Dialogue” on Friday September 10, 2021 under the theme “The impact of COVID-19 on Ghanaian fashion businesses and the way forward” moderated by Fashion PR Specialist Faith Senam.
The panelists includes the Creative Director of menswear brand Abrantie The Gentleman, Oheneba Yaw Boamah, Fashion Photographer Quincy Koranteng of Vine Imagery, Nana Yaw Amoako, Mr. Model Africa 2021 and Woodin Ghana RTW Product Manager, Mrs. Delali Bentsi- Enchil.
The main show will premier virtually on Saturday September 11, 2021 on Gh One TV Ghana (DSTV Channel 361, GOTV Channel 179)and partner online facebook platforms of Fashion Gh TV, Woodin Ghana, Ghana Menswear week and Mr. Model Africa at 4pm GMT.
It will be interesting to note that due to COVID 19 and the need to conform to rules and the protocols, this year’s event will have no live audience except models, designers and the crew.