Q Rising (formerly Qasimi Rising) has kicked off a series of global mentorship events, launching at the just-finished Lagos Fashion Week in Nigeria.

The talent incubator from London-based luxury brand Qasimi introduced a multi-layered partnership with the Lagos event, staging a one-day mentorship workshop for emerging designers from the region.

The aim was  to “scout emerging talents ahead of the incubator’s next brand intake in 2026”. 

The designers selected for 2026 Q Rising will be provided with three years of funding (spanning six fashion seasons) and an additional seven years of mentoring, “to build a strong foundation for long-term success”. Applications will open next summer.

Q Rising has begun the process by already holding a series of 1-2-1 workshops for eight emerging African designers: contemporary womenswear label Abiola Olusola (Nigeria); Ajabeng (Ghana), Boyedoe (Ghana); Kente Gentleman (Ivory Coast); Lila Bare (Kenya); Oshobor (Nigeria); Pepperrow (Nigeria); and Y’Wandelag (Nigeria).

This was followed by a talks programme addressing key issues from community building to sustainability. The event, created with the support of Lagos Fashion Week founder and executive director Omoyemi Akerele, “aims to cultivate the boundless creativity of African fashion, while helping local talents address some of the unique challenges to building a brand”.

Hoor-Al-Qasimi, creative director of Qasimi, said: “At Q Rising we believe that meaningful design transcends borders, and our partnership with Lagos Fashion Week is a testament to that belief. By offering mentorship and resources, we hope to cultivate a new wave of designers whose work reflects both their local heritage and a broader global narrative.”

To coincide with Lagos Fashion Week Q Rising also launched a month-long residency at Lagos luxury retailer Temple Muse, showcasing 2024 Q
Rising winner Omer Asim alongside Qasimi and menswear brand Apar.