Christie Brown Academy Graduates Second Cohort of Africa’s Rising Fashion Stars

The Christie Brown Academy (CBA), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, proudly graduated its second cohort of fashion entrepreneurs at a vibrant showcase held on June 14, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel in Accra. The milestone event, which concludes a one-year pilot programme, celebrated 25 creatives who completed an intensive, future-forward program designed to equip young Africans with the tools to build globally competitive and sustainable fashion businesses.

Christie Brown Academy's graduation. Photo Credit: Christie Brown Academy — Christie Brown Academy’s graduation. Photo Credit: Christie Brown Academy

Christie Brown Academy, founded by renowned Ghanaian designer Aisha Ayensu, is redefining fashion education in Africa. With a core mission to empower young African creatives, the CBA delivers a transformative curriculum that prioritizes the business of fashion and creative design.

Aisha Ayensu. Photo Credit: Christie Brown Academy

Through the Christie Brown Academy, we are meeting these participants at the point of their needs and bridging the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship in Africa’s fashion industry.
Aisha Ayensu, Founder and Director of Christie Brown Academy

The event featured a graduation fashion show spotlighting the participants’ original collections which are a reflection of their personal growth, cultural identity, and commitment to innovation. The showcase positioned Ghana as a rising hub for innovative fashion production.

Representing the Mastercard Foundation, Nene Diallo, Capacity Development and Mass Entrepreneurship Lead – Pan African Programs, commended the partnership’s alignment with the Foundation’s vision to unlock the potential of African youth.

Nene Diallo. Photo Credit: Christie Brown Academy

“We are committed to investing in entrepreneurship, skills development and dignified work for young women,” said Diallo. “These graduates are not just the future, they are the future of African innovation and the creative industry.”

As part of its support for youth-led enterprise, the Mastercard Foundation awarded $1,000 seed funding to three outstanding participants, namely Barbara Clement, Mavis Nelson, and Nancy Osei to support their fashion ventures.

The Christie Brown Academy is envisioned to become Africa’s leading fashion education institution, developing global talent and contributing to the continent’s economic growth through fashion entrepreneurship. By bridging the gap between creative passion and practical skills, the Academy is laying the foundation for Africa to thrive as a global force in contemporary fashion.