The Fashion Souk

Wema Bank, in collaboration with Eventful Limited, presents The Fashion Souk-a one stop destination for showcasing creative Nigerian fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands to the world, powered by SARA by WEMA - an initiative focused on empowering entrepreneurs in these industries.

About The Fashion Souk

Fashion Souk, a prominent fashion event launched in 2018, serves as the definitive platform for African-inspired fashion. The mission is to unveil the richness and cultural depth of African fashion to the discerning Nigerian and global Market.

Due to the demand, the event now holds biannually in Summer and December, spanning two days. The December edition notably features a runway showcase by creative fashion and beauty entrepreneurs and a business pitch by budding entrepreneurs for equipment grants.

The initiative has successfully hosted 11 editions in Lagos, proudly sponsored by WEMA Bank in collaboration with esteemed organizations such as the Bank of Industry and Lagos Internal Revenue Service. Building on its success, the initiative is set to expand internationally in 2025, with planned events in Accra, Ghana, on March 8th and 9th. The Fashion Souk has already made remarkable international strides, debuting in London in August 2023 and Dubai in March 2024.

The Fashion Souk celebrates the fusion of cultures through fashion and beauty. The curated brands embody the spirit of Africa, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design aesthetics, offering refreshing and authentic alternatives in the Nigerian fashion and beauty landscape.

The Fashion Souk presents a dynamic marketplace ripe with opportunities for creatives and entrepreneurs. With an increasing appreciation for diversity and sustainability in fashion and beauty, there exists a significant demand for the unique, artisanal offerings that the Souk proudly showcases.

Embracing the digital era, the Fashion Souk leverages digital media and technology to provide an immersion offline shopping experience for attendees.

Beyond commerce, Fashion Souk cultivates cultural experiences that transcend borders. Through thoughtfully curated events, exhibitions, and fashion shows, an invitation is extended to the Nigerian and global audience to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of African heritage and creativity.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Fashion Souk’s ethos with priority for authenticity, ethical sourcing, fair trade practices, and eco-conscious initiatives, empowering customers to make conscious choices while indulging in stylish, sustainable fashion.

Key Highlights

Distinctive Showcase

The best exhibition platform for creative African-inspired fashion and beauty brands.

Market Access

The Souk offers visibility and market access to discerning clientele for brands and businesses in Fashion and Beauty.

Networking Opportunity

An opportunity to engage with new and old clientele alongside collaboration opportunities with other businesses.

Collection & Payment tools

Collection and payment tools will be provided for exhibiting businesses and attendees at The Souk. These include FREE POS, ALAT and QR Codes.

Empowering Women in Business with SARA

With the Fashion Souk, we aim to:

Promote financial inclusion.

Empower women entrepreneurs by providing them with access to Market and financial services and resources.

Foster economic growth and innovation across diverse sectors.

Provide a networking platform and promote business visibility.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the entire Fashion Souk team for orchestrating the spectacular Fashion Souk 9.0. Folashade, your dedication and meticulous planning created an extraordinary experience for participants and attendees alike. I know I disturbed you alot but you kept on picking our calls and responding to our messages in such a demanding period. Going from stall to stall, checking that everything was fine, and smiling through it all, Well done! Thank you Fashion Souk for providing a platform that allows brands like ours to shine. It was a pleasure to be part of this event that celebrates style, diversity, and elegance. We look forward to future collaborations and continued successes together.

IntimatesbyItee

It gets better with each edition. Thank you so much not only for fantastic execution but for the excellent platform that gave my brand great visibility and sales. The networking was next to none. Congrats, and well done to the entire Eventful team for executing yet another successful Fashion Souk

Retroluuxstyle

had such an amazing time yesterday. Folashade thank you for constantly coming to check on us and ensuring we had no complaints unattended to. Everything was wonderful. Congratulations to Eventful for another super successful event. Very well done to the entire team as well as all the vendors that made it bubble!

Debs Fray, Turban Tempest, Needlepoint and AABOUX

The experience of connecting with fellow vendors and engaging with the enthusiastic audience was invaluable. We are excited about future collaborations. Thank you sincerely for this fantastic opportunity

Riza Naturals

Dear Fashion Souk, we would like to say a huge thank you for successfully coordinating this great event which has given us room to thrive “as always”. Your professionalism and tireless effort made the event a smooth and enjoyable.

Perlemoni

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Fashion Souk.

What is the Fashion Souk about?

The Fashion Souk, launched in 2018, is an initiative by Eventful Limited aimed at scaling up entrepreneurs in the Fashion and Beauty business. It serves as a platform to facilitate market access for small and medium-sized businesses through exhibitions and commerce.

Who is eligible to participate at the Fashion Souk?

The initiative is aimed at creative entrepreneurs across sectors of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Fashion and Beauty industries.

What does the Fashion Souk offer?

The Souk in collaboration with Wema Bank provides brand visibility, networking, sales opportunities and access to financial services and advisory for fashion and beauty businesses

How can I apply for Fashion Souk?

Applications will be announced via the Bank and Fashion Souk's social media platforms, external emails and third party platforms. Interested eligible vendors can apply by following the application guidelines provided during the application period.

Is there any cost associated with participating at the Fashion Souk?

The application form indicates the cost of stalls and only shortlisted vendors will be provided with payment details.

How are vendors selected for the Souk?

Interested vendors need to apply for a stall. Selections focus on the most creative and interesting brands using the brand's Instagram page for the vetting process.

Can I still apply if I already own a Business account with WEMA Bank?

Yes, but you must provide account details during the application process to proceed to the next stage if your business is shortlisted.

How do I open a business account?

You will either open business account using the link provided or wait to be assigned to an account officer after being invited to join the WhatsApp group created only for shortlisted vendors.

What support is provided to vendors in preparation for the Souk?

Shortlisted vendors will be invited to a WhatsApp business group where all the necessary information and support needed for the event will be provided.

How long does the Souk run?

The Souk runs for two days.

How can I stay updated on program announcements and activities?

Stay connected with SARABYWEMA and Fashion Souk social media channels:

IG: @sarabywema @thefashionsouk_ng

FB: @sarabywema

Visit our website sara.wemabank.com regularly, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest updates on program announcements, application deadlines, and other relevant information.