Showcasing the Vibrant Beauty of Diverse Cultures: UIW Hosts Annual African and Afro-Caribbean Fashion Show

On Thursday, Feb. 26, the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) hosted the fourth annual African and Afro-Caribbean Fashion Show in recognition of Black History Month (BHM) on the Broadway campus. For the past few years, UIW's International Student and Scholar Services, the Ettling Center for Civic Leadership and Sustainability and the African Student Organization have coordinated this beloved University event that invites the community to witness unique fashion designs inspired and influenced by African and Afro-Caribbean cultures.

Additionally, attendees were invited to sample delicious food and shop at the event's shopping market, which featured a number of Black-owned businesses that sold items including lotions, candles, jewelry, cakes and fair-trade items.

This year's show featured designs from Nichelle Hosley, an award-winning interior designer and Interior Design Meets Fashion creator and show producer, and Tudis African Boutique. Hosley has been a part of this event since its inception, generously dedicating her time, expertise and designs to help make this event a reality.

"Hosley's been with us from the beginning and is really the genius behind the event," noted Sheena Connell, assistant director of International Student and Scholar Services. "This was her first year, however, to feature designs in the show from Tudis African Boutique. Her authentic Ankara fabrics bring so much life and authenticity to the event."

Models from Panama Lo Nuestro were cheered on as they strutted down the runway, showcasing vibrant and culturally enriched designs that highlighted Afro-Panamanian fabrics. The event both showcased the beauty of African and Afro-Caribbean cultures and invited community members to learn more about diverse cultures.

Guests were also treated to a presentation from Lily Wachuku, UIW student and spoken words poet, as her work brought a vibrant blend of Nigerian and Bahamian heritage and explored aspects such as belonging, heritage and the influences that make up the multicultural Black experience.

"In recognition of Black History Month, this event was created to celebrate and showcase the richness and diversity of African and Afro-Caribbean culture within the UIW and San Antonio communities," shared Daisy Ansah-Agyemang, African Student Organization president. "Through the vision of Nichelle Hosley of Interior Design Meets Fashion, culture was brought to life through fashion and design. The African Student Organization (ASO) proudly supported this extraordinary event by connecting local Jamaican and West African restaurants, Real Real Jamaica and Trices, to provide authentic cuisine, coordinated performances by UIW student Lily Wachuku and more, and promoted the event across local businesses, museums, universities and UIW departments to help bring the broader community together."