At London Fashion Week 2026, Unity in Design Global Network (UDGN) delivered a statement in motion. Anthology of African Stories: The People. The Land. The Heritage is bold, cinematic, and fiercely individual. And this backstage story by photographer Val Stuppia captures just that.
Three designers. Three pillars.
The People. Twin by Tare (ASIN KAI MI) reworks Ijaw wedding tradition into sculpted silhouettes and heirloom George wrappers, heritage, but makes it high fashion. Inspired by treasured family photographs, ceremonial George wrappers are reborn in sculptural silhouettes, intricate beadwork, and deliberate layering. The result is powerful and poised.
The Land. Tayameaca (SAFARI) turns Zimbabwe’s landscape into fluid tailoring and sun-warmed earth tones. Clothing becomes landscape; landscape becomes memory. These are garments shaped by landscape, where memory is stitched into every sea,m and the body becomes a moving archive.
The Heritage. Jermaine Bleu (TWA ME FOTO) reimagines kente through a deeply personal lens, maternal memory meets modern edge. Bridging past and present, honouring tradition while insisting on visibility.
Founded by Tare Isaac, UDGN continues to platform African designers with clarity, confidence, and global ambition.
Not one story.
A collective spotlight.
Words by Lewis Robert Cameron
Follow: @udgn.global
Backstage Photography @valstuppia
Designers @jermainebleu @twinbytare @tayameaca.artistry
PRODUCTION:
Fashion Scout @fashionscout
PR:
I.DEA PR @i.deapr
MAKEUP:
Makeup By Mandy Gakhal For AOFMPro Using Dermalogica UK
@aofmakeup @mandygakhal @dermalogicauk
HAIR:
Hair By Narad Kutowaroo using Unite Haircare | Sally Beauty
@unite_hair @unite_hairtv @naradkutowaroo @sallybeautyuk @salonservicesuk
SHOW PRODUCTION:
Martyn Roberts: @mrfashionscout
BACKSTAGE FOOD:
People Pleaser Salad @peoplepleasersalad
STEAMERS:
Propress @propressuk
