South Africa will take center stage at the upcoming BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow, set for August 28–30, where more than 60 countries will converge to shape the future of the global fashion industry.
The South African delegation includes Stephen Manzini, Founder and CEO of Soweto Fashion Week & SA Fashion Association; Vusi Ngobeni, Head of Design at the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture; and Tinyiko Baloyi, Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg. Their participation highlights the growing influence of African design within the global marketplace.
Over the past three years, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit has featured emerging fashion industries from more than 90 nations, reflecting the rise of Moscow as a creative hub and a key player in the international fashion sector. Delegations from Brazil, Ecuador, the UAE, India, China, and South Africa will join forces, underscoring the platform’s mission to strengthen global alliances and open new markets.
The event’s Business Program will focus on sustainability, innovation, professional education, and expanding trade relations among BRICS+ nations and beyond. For South Africa, this participation represents both an opportunity and a strategic move to expand its fashion industry footprint globally.
“For Africa and other emerging economies, collaboration in the fashion sector is vital. It allows us to share resources, open new markets, and amplify our cultural narratives on a global stage,” said Stephen Manzini. “Fashion becomes more than just clothing—it becomes a tool for economic empowerment, cultural exchange, and storytelling.”
Alongside the Summit, Moscow Fashion Week will run from August 28 to September 2, featuring designers from Russia and 10 other countries, including Brazil, China, India, and Spain. Renowned South African designer David Tlale will showcase his latest collection, reinforcing the momentum of a truly multicultural fashion community.
