Miss Africa Column /10th episode:Lo and behold! Meet Nafisa Hafiz, the 2020 African Designer of the Year! She's a top fashion consultant and a champion of sustainable fashion in Africa. Her work is a mega movement that seeks to put Sudanese and Africam fashion on the global stage. Beautiful indeed!
Who are you?
“I am a Sudanese fashion entrepreneur, the CEO, and creative director of NUCY — a fashion brand uniting heritage and sustainable fashion — positively impacting the world around us.
I am a visionary visual artist, I skillfully translate profound concepts into the world of fashion.
My work is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Sudan.
I value creativity, resilience, and cultural authenticity.
I envision a world where Nucy’s presence triggers conversations, encourages reflection, and leaves a lasting, inclusive impact on the global stage.
At Nucy I actively promote cultural communication and acceptance, aiming to foster harmony and unity among diverse communities.
In my spare time, I enjoy exploring new artistic mediums, engaging with the local art community, and mentoring young designers.“
What is your project?
“My project, NUCY, is more than just a fashion brand; it is a movement that seeks to elevate Sudanese and African fashion to the global stage.
Through NUCY, I create unique, culturally inspired storytelling designs that blend rich heritage with contemporary spirit.
My aim is to foster creative economic growth by contributing to building a sustainable fashion industry in Sudan and beyond.“
How does your project impact society?
“NUCY impacts society by fostering cultural pride. By intertwining art and fashion, we aspire to break down barriers and ignite conversations about societal, political, environmental, and cultural issues.
Our purpose is to be a driving force for positive change through this artistic medium.
By wearing our creations, individuals become ambassadors of change, carrying forth the message of togetherness and empowerment.
Our work also encourages creative economic growth within the community, empowering individuals and contributing to a more vibrant and resilient society.“
How has the ongoing conflict in Sudan impacted the creative industry, and what challenges and opportunities has it presented for artists and designers?
“The ongoing conflict in Sudan has profoundly impacted the creative industry, presenting both significant challenges and unexpected opportunities for artists and designers.
The challenges are numerous: loss of infrastructure, scarcity of resources, and the emotional toll of living through conflict, all make it difficult to maintain a consistent creative practice.
Many creatives have faced displacement, forcing them to rebuild their lives and careers in new environments with limited support.
However, these hardships have also fostered a resilient and innovative spirit within the creative community.
The conflict has heightened the sense of urgency and importance in storytelling through art, especially with local and international media blackout, that has overshadowed what’s happening in Sudan, and now has come to be called a “forgotten war”.
Sudanese artists became the alternative media, using their work to document experiences, elevate silenced voices, highlight war violations, raise awareness, and preserve cultural heritage amidst the turmoil.
This has led to a surge in powerful, evocative works.
Overall, while the conflict has posed significant obstacles, it has also underscored the vital role of the creative industry in times of crisis for the second time after the December Revolution that led to the fall of Al-Bashir’s regime, which witnessed the power of Art in political change.
As artists we will persist in our resistance, welding our artwork as a weapon for freedom.“
What can Africa do to become a successful continent?
“Africa can become a successful continent by investing in its creative industries, supporting local entrepreneurs, and fostering innovation.
As African people, we are born talented, and by taking advantage of this inherent creativity, we can develop our own unique paths to economic growth, which will absolutely bring significant changes, creating job opportunities, particularly for artisans and women from this segment.
By doing so, we will contribute to sustainable poverty reduction.
Embracing cultural diversity and promoting collaboration across borders will also play a crucial role.
I believe Africa can harness the power of creativity to drive economic growth and social change, making creativity and innovation a cornerstone of our success.“
‘As African people, we are born talented, and by taking advantage of this inherent creativity, we can develop our own unique paths to economic growth.‘As African people, we are born talented, and by taking advantage of this inherent creativity, we can develop our own unique paths to economic growth.‘
Nafisa Hafiz, Sudan
How can people interested in your projects reach you?
“
Social media: @nucy_official, or contact us directly via email at; nucyofficialfashion@gmail.com
I am always eager to connect with fellow creatives, potential
collaborators, and anyone passionate about the future of African fashion.“
Pictures of Nafisa Hafiz in Action:
