From natural hair styles to inspirational ethnic jewellery to the prints, cut and colours of fabrics, African fashion has woven itself into the hearts of the mainstream. African style has become a state of mind, it embodies beauty and purpose, evokes spiritual strength and inspires individuality. Qurux Africa, a presentation of the Emancipation Support Committee, is fast becoming a must -attend event for the expression and appreciation of African beauty through fashion.
The Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago celebrates their 25th Anniversary of the organization and their commitment to education, development and personal identity. Executive Director, Zakiya Uzoma Wadada shares her perspective on the show. “With 25 years of commitment to the development of the African consciousness in Trinidad and Tobago – we see this show as an opportunity to reach our brothers and sisters allowing them to see themselves in the best possible light.”
Qurux Africa 3 takes place Under the Trees at the Hotel Normandie on the afternoon of Sunday 2nd July, 2017. Entertainment company Fashion Focus has been working alongside the ESCTT in the management and production of Qurux Africa for the past two years and continues to share their expertise in the fashion industry. Fashion Focus is known for their annual production of the Fashion Convention and Fashion Magazine and is unmatched in creating avenues for emerging designers.
The Wasafoli dance and drumming troupe alongside the highly-favoured presentation by The Lost Tribe directed by Valmiki Maharaj will open the show. Featured local designers include Andre Lovelace of The Nubian Experience, Deron Attzs Designs, Naballah Chi, Afrikan Ark by Johan and Carla Mohamed, Daniel’s Den of Fashion, Mahogany Stuff. Our international designers are Marlène Millon Desvignes of Martinque, and representing the African continent – Ghanian fashion designers Josephine Hayford of Haylooks and Faustina Ansong and a surprise presentation from Ethiopia. After the production patrons can purchase their favorite outfits directly from the designers while they mill around Under the Trees for the Pop-up booths. Traditional accessories such as headwraps, jewelry, handbags and craft will also be available.
Michael Christopher, lead consultant for Qurux Africa says, “One of the main goals of Fashion Focus is to create an innovative angle on the presentation of fashion, one that is more fluid, dynamic and engaging. Shows like this allow the patron to enjoy a show, select items that appeal to them and purchase items at the Pop-up shop. There will be a variety of styles, evening wear, business, casual both male and female and even a kids’ line.”
Patrons are invited to come out from 4pm to indulge in the cocktail reception followed by the African and African-inspired presentations. This year’s event will feature a photobooth and door prizes will be presented throughout the show. Headline model, Ms. Athaliah Samuel – Miss Trinidad and Tobago 2012, expressed how pleased she is to be associated with the production. She commented on the pride she feels in participating in a specially planned show for the celebration of African heritage and culture.
Limited early bird tickets are available at the Emancipation House in Maraval. Tickets cost $250 for general seating and $300 for Special Reserved seating. For more information on the event and ticket sales, contact the ESCTT Secretariat at 628-5008 or info@emancipationtt.org, visit the website at www.emancipationtt.com or follow the ESCTT on Facebook at “Emancipation Support Committee-ESC”.
