A 17-year-old Chadian model has emerged as a new star in Africa's fashion industry following an extended search. The event included 16 s...
- A 17-year-old Chadian model has emerged as a new star in Africa's fashion industry following an extended search.
- The event included 16 skilled participants, with a Kenyan model making it to the top six.
- The accolade earned her a prize and the chance to collaborate with global high-end brands.
- The gathering honored Joan Okorodudu's late husband and was moderated by Nailantei Kenga from KTN and Ata Ahli from BBC.
The extended quest for Africa's Next Super Model 2025 has concluded, as a tall and attractive model from Chad claims the title and brings it back to her homeland.
Dillah Acelle, a 17-year-old emerging fashion talent, was declared the victor at an impressive grand finale that took place at Nairobi's Broadwalk Mall on Saturday, November 22, and was exclusively covered byArticlepedia Today.co.ke.
Accelle made a strong impression on the judges and the audience with her self-assurance, and received a cheque worth $5,000 (KSh 646,000) from Chris Oputa of Studio 24, a sponsor of Africa's Next Super Model, along with Matteo Puglisi, the CEO of Select Models Management.
This chance will also provide her with unique worldwide visibility, together with the possibility to collaborate with high-end international fashion companies.
Acelle won the competition among 16 outstanding participants from different parts of Africa. It is worth mentioning that Kenyan model Lilian Amoni also left a significant impact at the event, earning a place in the top six.
How did Africa's Next Super Model 2025 come about?
The gathering began with the Kenyan National Anthem, followed by a touching moment of silence to pay tribute to Air Vice-Marshall Terry Okorodudu, the late husband of Joan Okorodudu, the founder of Isis Models.
Joan, the visionary, was unable to be there because of her personal loss, but she was deeply present in spirit. Her heartfelt tribute to her late husband was shown on the screen, and the audience reacted with clear emotion. Joan, the visionary behind Africa’s Next Super Model, has played a key role in creating this platform and taking it to its present level of success.
Significantly, well-known media figure Nailantei Kenga once again took charge of the event, filling in for the grieving founder of the Pan-African fashion gathering, with BBC senior reporter Ata Ahli joining her as co-host.
Notable individuals from the creative field were also there to honor the occasion, such as Collins Okoth from the Kenya Film Commission, who praised the competition's influence on the creative industry. Peter Salasya, the Mumias East Member of Parliament, was also present.
"We are committed to creating a setting where artists in Kenya and throughout Africa can transform their skills into professions, their interests into incomes, and their aspirations into international achievements," Okoth stated.Articlepedia Today.co.ke.
Additionally, Mr. Cornell McBride, President of Design Essentials, was present at the event, where he voiced ongoing support for the creative sector through his collaboration with Isis Models.
This was his second consecutive year participating in the event, reinforcing his dedication to supporting African talent.
Furthermore, Daima Mkenya Africa, established by Zahra Balewah Moi, displayed their national fabric adorned with the Kenyan flag, bringing a cultural element to the event.
The panel was particularly impressed with Acelle's remarkable self-assurance, composure, and professional demeanor, characteristics that have come to define the event.
"She demonstrated professionalism in each challenge and made substantial progress during the competition. It was evident that she was meant for success. Her self-assurance was unmatched," remarked Matteo, who was part of the distinguished panel of judges.
Following her triumph, Acelle, 17, expressed her enthusiasm and considered the importance of her success:
I'm really thrilled to have won this competition. This victory isn't just mine, but also belongs to every young girl who dreams of entering the fashion industry. I hope my path motivates them and proves that with dedication, self-belief, and determination, anything can be achieved. This win is dedicated to every dreamer, every girl who has the courage to reach for the stars.
Prominent Kenyan artist Bensoul captivated the audience with a dynamic show.
