The competition will make its African debut in 2026. It aims to spotlight emerging designers and showcase African fashion to a global audience.
Interested designers can apply through the official website. However, they must submit their applications before November 15, 2026.
Project Runway Africa seeks emerging designers
The casting call targets designers with strong African artistic expression. Applicants must also have the skills to turn their creative ideas into reality.
Producers will select contestants from a wide pool of applicants. Those chosen will compete on a continental stage and receive mentorship. They will also have the chance to showcase their designs to a wider audience.
To apply, interested designers should visit the show’s official website. They can also follow Project Runway Africa on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X. The show’s handle is @projectrunway.africa.
These platforms will provide application details, audition updates and other announcements. Therefore, applicants should check them regularly for new information.
Global fashion franchise expands to Africa
Project Runway Africa will bring the internationally recognised fashion competition to the continent for the first time. Take Two Media is producing the show through its partnership involving Takeout Media and What Network.
For two decades, Project Runway has helped emerging designers showcase their creativity. The franchise has also expanded into markets such as the United States and Canada.
Now, the African edition aims to build on that legacy. It will highlight the continent’s diverse creative talent and design traditions. In addition, the show hopes to introduce African designers to wider audiences.
African fashion has continued to attract international attention in recent years. Against this backdrop, the competition offers a platform for emerging designers to gain visibility and develop their careers.
Producers highlight Africa’s creative potential
Co-Executive Producer Chichi Nwoko described the project as an opportunity to inspire designers and engage audiences.
“Project Runway Africa will be a transformative journey, one that inspires participants, engages audiences, and showcases the boundless creativity of African fashion,” Nwoko said.
She also pointed to growing audience interest in the people shaping African fashion. According to her, the show will help bring those creative voices into the spotlight.
Meanwhile, Co-Executive Producer Elijah Affi stressed the importance of giving talented designers greater visibility.
“There are designers across the continent building remarkable things, often without the visibility, infrastructure or opportunities that could take their work further,” Affi said.
He added that Project Runway Africa sits at the intersection of talent and opportunity. The competition aims to help designers reach audiences they might otherwise struggle to access.
Fashion brands invited to partner with the show
Beyond the competition, Project Runway Africa is creating opportunities for brands and businesses. Companies across the fashion industry can explore partnerships with the production.
Through these partnerships, brands can connect with fashion-conscious audiences. They can also support emerging designers and become part of the continent’s evolving fashion story.
Furthermore, the production offers businesses a chance to associate with a globally recognised entertainment franchise. This could help strengthen connections between designers, brands and other players in Africa’s fashion industry.
Take Two Media is producing Project Runway Africa, with Takeout Media and What Network involved in the company. Meanwhile, Spyglass Media Group owns the Project Runway format. Fremantle handles format and tape licensing outside the United States.
Applications close on November 15
Aspiring designers across Africa now have an opportunity to compete in the show’s debut season. However, they must complete their applications before the November deadline.
Applicants can visit projectrunwayafrica.com for details. They can also follow the show’s social media accounts for casting announcements.
As preparations continue, the production aims to bring emerging African designers together on one platform. Ultimately, Project Runway Africa hopes to celebrate the continent’s creative talent and introduce its fashion voices to a wider global audience.
