Adeola and Ronke Jane Adelakun, founders of the African fashion brand Cultureville, hosted an inspiring event at Aviva Studios in Manchester to highlight and support Black creatives. The Black Creative Trailblazers event showcased diverse talents, including musicians, poets, models, and fashion designers, aiming to bridge gaps in opportunity and representation.

A Fashion Journey Rooted in Identity

The sisters’ journey began with a personal challenge: finding African print clothing in the UK. Adeola, after reconnecting with her Nigerian roots, fell in love with traditional fabrics and designs. She returned to Manchester, partnering with Ronke Jane to launch Cultureville.

“Starting Cultureville wasn’t easy,” Adeola shared. “It was about more than just fashion; it was about creating a platform for underrepresented voices.”

Their experience highlighted the “knowledge and network gap” faced by many Black creatives, sparking the idea for an event that provides resources and exposure.

Empowering Black Creatives

The Black Creative Trailblazers event featured vibrant performances and art, creating a space for creatives to connect with potential employers and agencies. Ronke Jane emphasized the importance of action over words:

“We have to do more to open the door to Black creatives. It’s not enough to just talk about it.”

With Black creatives making up just 2% of the UK’s creative industry, the event seeks to challenge this disparity and create tangible opportunities in an industry worth billions.

Looking Ahead

The sisters envision Black Creative Trailblazers as a launchpad for careers, fostering connections and driving change. “This is about elevating the community,” Ronke Jane said, underlining their commitment to providing a platform they once struggled to find.