The Centre for Business Innovation and Training has launched the third edition of the Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD) Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase, a continental initiative that promotes leather as the material of choice for a sustainable future.
This year’s competition, part of a global campaign led by the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA) in collaboration with the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), aims to highlight Africa’s exceptional design talent while advocating for sustainable fashion practices.
Leather, a naturally occurring by-product of the meat industry, is being championed as a durable and ethical alternative to synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, which are derived from petroleum-based plastics.
“The fashion industry cannot afford to ignore its environmental impact. Consumers are informed and change is inevitable,” said Kerry Brozyna, President of the LHCA.
“Leather stands at the heart of slow fashion because of its durability, offering an ethical and sustainable alternative to disposable fashion trends.”
The RLSD Africa 2025 competition invites designers from across the continent to create innovative leather products in three categories: apparel, footwear, or accessories.
Participants must incorporate at least 50% natural leather in their designs and submit storyboards, sketches, technical specifications, and concept explanations.
An expert panel of industry leaders will evaluate the entries, with finalists showcasing their winning designs at an exclusive event in December 2025.
The competition not only provides a platform for designers to showcase their talent but also serves as a launchpad for career advancement.
“The Real Leather. Stay Different. Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase 2025 champions leather as the material of choice for a sustainable future, providing designers across Africa with the skills, exposure, and platform to harness its beauty, versatility, and durability,” said Nicholas Mudungwe, Executive Director of ALLPI.
“Now is Africa’s time to lead in creating ethical, high-quality leather products and shaping the future of sustainable fashion.”
Last year’s competition, held alongside Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, showcased 14 finalists under the theme “Redefining Fashion’s Environmental Footprint.”
Ethiopian designer Ruth Girmay won Most Commendable Designer 2024 for her Overfishing Bag, inspired by marine conservation.
Other notable entries included Ugandan designer Eddie Louis’s Contemporary Leather Armour Collection and Kenyan designer Stephen Maosa’s Transformable Travel Bag, which won the People’s Choice Award.
The 2025 edition aims to expand participation across Africa, with the Most Commendable Designer representing the continent at the RLSD International Showcase.
All winners will receive industry recognition, certificates, trophies, and extensive global exposure, further cementing Africa’s role as a leader in sustainable fashion.
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