About
Arewa Fashion and Food Festival (AFFEST) is a celebration of the vibrant culture, heritage, food, and fashion of Northern Nigeria. We are redefining the narrative often associated with the region—moving beyond stereotypes of insecurity and underdevelopment to showcase the richness, diversity, and vibrancy of its people. Through AFFEST, we aim to tell Northern Nigeria's story from an authentic perspective, inviting the world to see, hear, and experience the beauty that often goes unnoticed.
Registered as a company limited by guarantee with the Corporate Affairs Commission, AFFEST operates from its official office at No. 2A Abdullahi Yaro House, off Ali Akilu Road, Kaduna. As an initiative of Women Aware of Rights Initiative Nigeria, the festival is powered by the support of visionary partners who believe in our mission to change perceptions and inspire new possibilities.
Our journey began with the inaugural AFFEST, where we reintroduced the region to itself and the world. The festival opened with a visit to the royal palace of the Zazzau Emirate, where we explored history, tradition, and possibilities for the future with nearly 100 attendees. The following days unfolded with an engaging food exhibition and an electrifying fashion show that showcased the creative talents of eight designers—some seasoned veterans and others stepping onto the runway for the first time.
Over 300 fashion lovers gathered to witness the runway spectacle, while more than 500 attendees indulged in the culinary diversity of Arewa. In total, we connected with over a thousand participants during the event, surpassing our expectations for the first edition.
With last year's success fueling our momentum, we are excited to take AFFEST to new heights. Join us on this journey as we celebrate Northern Nigeria's beauty, culture, and potential—one story, one dish, and one design at a time.
Our mission
Our mission is to reveal Northern Nigeria as a place where just as much happens as anywhere else in Nigeria. We aim to bring to the forefront street talents to tell their stories to the world through their designs and culinary; alongside world-class professionals. We want to travel Northern Nigeria and spotlight the historical evolution of food and fashion; with in-depth research and talent shows, events and program that limelight the path to the true Arewa.
Our Vision
To be a leading fashion and food-oriented organization in Northern Nigeria that showcases the very best of the Arewa to the world by: telling stories, cooking up the best cultural delicacies and creating a space where ghetto talent meets world class energy.
We believe that even in the grimmest places live the most colourful talents. The North has a story to tell, We want to travel and explore the Arewa culture and history and expose all that it has to offer.
Serving as the base where street talents are knitted into the professional material.
CORE VALUES (R-CEEDA)
01
Research
We believe in sourcing out the inherent talent and creativity in the North, and we approach our work with eager and keen eyes for any form of creativity that spans across the food and fashion industry, ensuring that all have an opportunity to express and show the world what they can do.
02
Innovation
We believe in showcasing rich, entertaining and educative content from Arewa culture to the rest of the world; to use the power of entertainment to transform the lens by which the world views the North.
03
Teamwork
We believe in the power of partnerships and collaboration to create lasting change. We work closely with local communities, fashion designers, and other NGOs to build networks and share knowledge, amplifying voices and creating a united front for food and fashion from Northern Nigeria.
04
Empowerment:
We strive to empower individuals by providing them with the tools, skills, and resources necessary to overcome the challenges they face. Through educational programs, vocational training, and men tor-ship,we enable individuals to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
05
Diversity:
We embrace and celebrate the rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and identities that span across the nineteen states of Northern Nigeria. We ensure that our programs and initiatives are inclusive, respecting and valuing the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals.
06
Accountability:
We are committed to transparency and accountability in all aspects of our work. We diligently monitor and evaluate the impact of our programs, ensuring that the resources entrusted to us are used effectively and efficiently.
Meet our team
Bilqees Abdulrasheed Shebby Esq
Executive Director
Aisha Abdulrazaq Muhammad
HR Director
Eslah Yusuf
Fatima Balarabe
Brand and communications manager
Bobby (Kingsley Onyeama)
Fatima Yahaya
Dare Elijah