The spotlight is on African creativity as Bellafricana proudly announces the soft launch of its Global Marketplace, an African marketplace and platform designed to connect small, independent African creative businesses with a global audience. At the core of this initiative are 9 founding brands powering Bellafricana’s Global Marketplace that reflect the vibrancy, innovation, and rich heritage of African artistry.
This milestone marks a new chapter for Bellafricana, a platform that has consistently championed African creatives and empowered them to showcase their talents worldwide.
Bellafricana’s Journey: From Local Roots to Global Impact
Since its inception, Bellafricana has been a trailblazer in promoting African creativity. From hosting three successful African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards) to organizing TALES (The African Lifestyle Experience) and curated pop-up events, Bellafricana has always celebrated African talent.
With the launch of the Global Marketplace, Bellafricana is bridging the gap between talented creatives and international markets, offering a digital storefront that amplifies their reach and impact.
Meet the 9 founding brands powering Bellafricana’s Global Marketplace
These nine brands represent the essence of African creativity and innovation, blending tradition with modernity to produce exceptional products.
1. Accessory-Ville:
Specializing in handcrafted accessories, Accessory-Ville brings a touch of elegance to everyday fashion. Their collection includes beaded bags made in Ghana that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Africa. Known for its bold and elegant beaded bags, Accessory-Ville creates handcrafted premium craftsmanship that celebrate Africa’s cultural heritage while offering a contemporary flair.
At the heart of Accessory-Ville’s mission is a commitment to preserving local craftsmanship. The brand remains devoted to supporting the local beading industry by employing skilled artisans and providing free training to young women, empowering them economically while preserving the rich tradition of beadwork.
2. Ethnik Afrika:
Ethnik Afrika was founded in 2015 by Tunde and Najeeba. Inspired by culture, this brand is reimagining the ancient handwoven traditional Yoruba textile, aso- oke, while preserving the traditional weaving techniques, art forms and know hows. We are exploring the hidden treasures of Africa, along with her culture and heritage, incorporating storytelling through modern designs, one weave at a time.
Handmade in Nigeria, our essence is to continue to support our community of weavers and local artisans with jobs, creating outstanding designs while paying critical attention to craftmanship. With our designs, we celebrate the beauty of our dear continent, AFRIKA.
3. Modara Naturals:
Modara is a luxurious natural skincare company that uses nature’s best ingredients to create pure, natural bath, body and skincare products. Our products are handmade using 100% natural ingredients ethically sourced from Nigeria, Africa and all around the world where necessary. The name ‘Modara’ is derived from my mother tongue, Yoruba, meaning ‘I do awesome things’ and that pretty much sums up who we are. Modara Limited became a registered company in May 2013 and the brand formally launched her first products in June 2015.
4. Ako Africa:
Ako is an Afrocentric brand. The word “Ako” means fashionable in Nigerian language “Yoruba”.
They hit the sweet spot of Fashion, Art and Culture. Each piece tells a story that helps you connect with their culture. Each piece shows off the amazing artistry that exists in Nigeria and are always a perfect conversation starter.
5. Simeogieme:
Simeogieme is a luxury fashion brand that blends simplicity, sensuality, and sophistication. The Founder and Creative Director, Osime Saibu, is a fashion enthusiast with a passion for designing clothing and accessories, as well as painting art and creating patterns, with which the fabrics for her clothes are created. She launched the brand Simeogieme in 2010, initially as a hobby and an informal outlet for her passion for fashion. However, this has recently begun an evolution into a growing SME.
Her collections are inspired by bold patterns, vibrant colours, and artistic influences, designed for women who embrace elegance and individuality. Each piece offers a striking combination of creativity and craftsmanship, ensuring a unique style statement. Perfect for those who love to stand out with grace and confidence.
6. Mojisola Style:
Mojisola was inspired by her love for artistry and design in her early years. She has always loved looking good and making others look better, an attribute that drew her to the fashion industry. She crafts fashion products made from African indigenous fabrics.
7. AILAKOKO:
Àílàkókò, which means ’Timeless’ creates various collections of individually handmade stylish fashion accessories and gifts.
We focus on bringing functionality, creativity, and eco-consciousness to consumption.
Àílàkókò is a solution to boredom, repetition, and inauthenticity, offering limited edition and refreshingly unusual pieces.
Àílàkókò is handmade in London.
Read: Press Release of Bellafricana Global Marketplace
8. OkNolla:
Kofo Nolla-Omidiran, also known as O’Knolla, is a British-Nigerian artist and designer based in West London.
Inspired by African patterns and the rich tapestry of Ancient African symbol writing, Kofo channels the essence of those age-old forms of communication into her very own modern-day proto-asemic writing. Her work isn’t just art—it’s an invitation to explore a world where symbols speak, but their meanings are left for you to decipher. Kofo’s pieces are like visual riddles, each one offering a fresh adventure into the mysterious realm of the unspoken.
Step into Kofo’s world, where the past and future collide in a mesmerizing dance of symbols and stories, and discover the language that only your imagination can truly understand.
9. Massassi B:
Massassi B showcases a captivating array of ready-to-wear clothing and accessories adorned with exotic hues and intricate patterns, crafted from handmade fabrics sourced mainly from West Africa. Embracing the cultural richness of the region, the brand collaborates with individual artisans and worker groups, fostering a sense of community and empowerment. Notably, Massassi B fearlessly incorporates unique textiles like batik, Adire, and woven fabrics indigenous to Africa, seamlessly blending them with Chiffon, Linen & Denim. This fusion not only results in visually stunning pieces but also reflects a commitment to sustainability and longevity. By investing in these timeless garments and accessories, customers not only enhance their style but also support and uplift the skilled makers behind each creation.
Why Bellafricana is a Game-Changer
The Bellafricana Global Marketplace stands out for its commitment to empowering African creatives. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Authenticity: Every product is carefully curated to reflect Africa’s rich culture and craftsmanship.
- Sustainability: Many products are made with eco-friendly, upcycled, or natural materials.
- Community: Bellafricana fosters connections between creators and consumers, creating a space to celebrate African stories.
- Exclusivity: Each product is a limited-edition treasure, offering buyers something truly unique.
Join the Movement
The Bellafricana Global Marketplace isn’t just about shopping, it’s about celebrating African creativity, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local artisans. By exploring and purchasing from these 9 founding brands powering Bellafricana’s Global Marketplace, you’re investing in a brighter future for African entrepreneurship.
Shop Now and Explore African Creativity
Visit Bellafricana.co.uk today to explore the collections, learn the stories behind these incredible brands, and join the movement to elevate African artistry.
Conclusion
Bellafricana’s journey is rooted in passion, and this new chapter marks a monumental step toward global recognition of African creatives. Together, let’s celebrate the artistry, innovation, and resilience of these talented entrepreneurs.
