creative dna rwanda
Creative DNA Rwanda is a fashion accelerator supporting emerging and early-stage fashion and accessory entrepreneurs in Rwanda to strengthen their businesses, sharpen their brands, and grow their market readiness.
Delivered by Illume Creative Studio in partnership with the British Council, the programme combines digital learning, mentorship, workshops, Creative Hustles, industry engagement, and market access opportunities to support the next generation of fashion businesses.
Designed as a structured journey, Creative DNA Rwanda brings together entrepreneurs, practitioners, and ecosystem partners to help fashion brands grow with stronger business foundations, greater visibility, and deeper industry connection.
creative dna rwanda x
pop up africa
Creative DNA at Pop Up Africa is the international showcase component of Creative DNA Rwanda, a fashion accelerator delivered by Illume Creative Studio in partnership with the British Council.
Through Pop Up Africa — the programme’s UK-facing platform partner — selected Rwandan fashion and accessory brands are introduced to new audiences at London’s Spitalfields Market through a curated retail and visibility opportunity designed to support international exposure, market engagement, and broader industry connection.
featured brands at pop up africa
House of Tayo is a Rwanda-based menswear brand founded by Matthew Rugamba, known for its contemporary approach to tailoring, craftsmanship, and refined African design. From its signature accessories to bespoke and ready-to-wear collections, the brand has built a reputation for quality, detail, and a distinctive design identity rooted in modern African style.
Through Creative DNA Rwanda, House of Tayo participates both as a featured brand and through Matthew Rugamba’s role as programme partner, bringing industry insight, mentorship, and lived entrepreneurial experience to the wider journey.
Born in Rwanda, NDABAGA is a streetwear brand inspired by the legendary warrior Ndabaga, a symbol of courage, resilience, and self-belief. Blending African heritage with contemporary street culture, the brand creates bold pieces designed to empower a new generation to become their own heroes. From Kigali to London, NDABAGA Streetwear brings a fresh East African voice to global fashion through storytelling, identity, and style.
CAMI Brand is a Rwanda-based sustainable fashion label founded by designer Cyubahiro Amanda Michel. Inspired by craftsmanship, street culture, and creative upcycling, CAMI transforms discarded denim and textiles into one-of-a-kind pieces that blend casual streetwear with contemporary elegance. Each garment is handcrafted in limited quantities, celebrating individuality, sustainability, and African creativity. Through fashion, CAMI aims not only to create distinctive designs, but also to empower young artisans and promote a more conscious approach to clothing production.
Afrolago Company was founded in 2020 with a vision of creating high-quality leather products while making a real social impact in the community. What started as a small passion-driven initiative has grown into a dedicated team of 8 skilled people in production, crafting stylish leather bags, shoes, sandals, and other products using carefully selected leather and raw materials. Beyond fashion, Afrolago believes in empowerment and inclusion, which is why the company actively supports people with disabilities through hands-on training opportunities and employment. Every product we create carries not only craftsmanship and creativity, but also a story of resilience, dignity, and the belief that talent should be given a chance to shine.