Waridi Wardah is a Kenyan-born fashion designer, mentor, and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the fashion industry. Based in Berlin since 1993, Waridi began her career as an international model, working with some of the world’s top designers in New York, London, and Berlin. She then transitioned into promoting African fashion and founded Fashion Africa 254, an initiative that connects and empowers African designers while showcasing their creativity on a global stage.
Waridi has collaborated with international publications like Vogue Germany and Vogue Italy, leveraging her expertise to elevate African fashion narratives. As a respected member of the German Fashion Council, she has been instrumental in shaping events like Berlin Fashion Week and creating platforms that facilitate cross-cultural exchange between African and European designers. Her acclaimed Mtindo Photography Book and other groundbreaking projects continue to redefine perceptions of African fashion, presenting it as a symbol of vibrancy, innovation, and economic potential.
A passionate advocate for the creative industries, Waridi’s work is driven by the belief that fashion can be a powerful tool for economic growth and cultural transformation in Africa. Through her mentorship programs and industry partnerships, she aims to nurture the next generation of African fashion talent, positioning them for success in a competitive global market.