Renowned Nigerian fashion designer Alphadi led a special masterclass at the Academy of Fashion in Rome to celebrate African cotton and creativity as part of the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) World Cotton Day events held on 7 October.
Over a two-day session in September, Alphadi—globally known as “the Magician of the Desert” for his haute couture designs—mentored 14 fashion students from the Academy, guiding them on how to blend African and Italian fashion traditions. The collaboration produced seven original cotton-based creations, reflecting the shared artistry between both cultures.
“For me, this is a way to highlight all that Africa is capable of,” Alphadi said. “It’s a tribute to our continent and a celebration of African craftsmanship. African cotton is a quality product that can be embraced by people from the Sahel to Europe and America.”
One of the participating students, Cecilia Marchesini, described the experience as a unique cultural exchange. “It’s the first time we’ve worked directly with a culture so different from ours,” she said. “We challenged ourselves to blend two styles and discovered many similarities between them.”
Alphadi, who also serves as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for African Innovation and Creation, used the masterclass to highlight the creative and economic potential of African cotton, advocating for its recognition on the global fashion stage.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, World Cotton Day celebrates cotton’s importance in global trade, sustainability, and livelihoods. The FAO and its partners use the occasion to promote cotton’s versatility and its role in supporting millions of people across more than 80 countries.
El Mamoun Amrouk, FAO Senior Economist, noted that the initiative was driven by African cotton-producing nations seeking global recognition. “The idea for World Cotton Day came from African producers who wanted the world to celebrate cotton and its value,” he said.
The cotton industry continues to play a vital role in economic growth and poverty reduction, particularly in developing countries. This year’s collaboration between FAO and the fashion sector showcased cotton’s journey from field to fashion, positioning it as a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and cultural unity for the next generation.
