The Fashion Souk

Wema Bank, in collaboration with Eventful Limited, presents The Fashion Souk — a one-stop destination for showcasing creative Nigerian fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands to the world. This event is powered by SARA by WEMA, an initiative dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs in these industries.

About The Fashion Souk

Fashion Souk, a prominent fashion event launched in 2018, serves as the definitive platform for African-inspired fashion. The mission is to unveil the richness and cultural depth of African fashion to the discerning Nigerian and global Market.

Due to the demand, the event now holds biannually in summer and December, spanning two days. The December edition notably features a runway showcase by creative fashion and beauty entrepreneurs and a business pitch by budding entrepreneurs for equipment grants.

The initiative has successfully hosted 13 editions in Lagos, proudly sponsored by WEMA Bank in collaboration with esteemed organizations such as the Bank of Industry and Lagos Internal Revenue Service. The Fashion Souk has made remarkable international strides, debuting in London in August 2024, Dubai in March 2024 and Accra in March 2025.

The Fashion Souk celebrates the fusion of cultures through fashion and beauty. The curated brands embody the spirit of Africa, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design aesthetics, offering refreshing and authentic alternatives in the Nigerian fashion and beauty landscape.

The Fashion Souk presents a dynamic marketplace ripe with opportunities for creatives and entrepreneurs. With an increasing appreciation for diversity and sustainability in fashion and beauty, there exists a significant demand for the unique, artisanal offerings that the Souk proudly showcases.

Beyond commerce, Fashion Souk cultivates cultural experiences that transcend borders. Through thoughtfully curated events, exhibitions, and fashion shows, an invitation is extended to the Nigerian and global audience to immerse themselves in the richness of African heritage and creativity

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Fashion Souk’s ethos with priority for authenticity, ethical sourcing, fair trade practices, and eco-conscious initiatives, empowering customers to make conscious choices while indulging in stylish, sustainable fashion.

Key Highlights

Distinctive Showcase

The best exhibition platform for creative African-inspired fashion and beauty brands.

Market Access

The Souk offers visibility and market access to discerning clientele for brands and businesses in Fashion and Beauty.

Networking Opportunity

An opportunity to engage with new and old clientele alongside collaboration opportunities with other businesses.

Collection & Payment tools

Collection and payment tools will be provided for exhibiting businesses and attendees at The Souk. These include FREE POS, ALAT and QR Codes.

Empowering Women in Business with SARA

With the Fashion Souk, we aim to:

Promote financial inclusion.

Empower women entrepreneurs by providing them with access to Market and financial services and resources.

Foster economic growth and innovation across diverse sectors.

Provide a networking platform and promote business visibility.

On behalf of the Tampoori team we say thank you to the FS team. We are truly grateful for the platform, the support, and the opportunity to connect with many amazing customers and vendors. Cheers to a successful event and to many more colorful moments ahead.

TAMPOORI STUDIO

On behalf of Afro Boho Fashion, I would like to say a massive thank you to the Fashion Souk team, Eventful team, Wema Bank Team, BOI, LIRS and my fellow vendors. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity. We had an amazing time not just selling but also networking with other vendors and appreciating the art and passion displayed in each stall

AFRO BOHO FASHION

On behalf of the entire Ovem House family, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt appreciation to the indefatigable, impeccably organized, and truly visionary Fashion Souk Team. Thank you for continually creating a world-class platform that empowers brands like ours to connect with a vibrant, ready, and discerning audience. Your operational excellence, your thoughtful attention to detail, and your unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs do not only stand out—they inspire us. Being part of the Fashion Souk experience is a privilege, and we are profoundly grateful for the impact, exposure, and community you continue to build with such grace and excellence. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the sponsors and partners whose support makes this remarkable event possible. Thank you for all you do. Your work is seen, valued, and deeply appreciated. We look forward to creating even more beautiful and impactful memories together.

OVEM

Thank you Fashion Souk!!! I’m really short of words right now but God bless you greatly. Fashion Souk will continue to go bigger and greater! For the quality of customers that attended the souk, for the seamless service provided by Wema Bank, for the vendors. It’s not just a trade fair for me, it was really a great opportunity to network with other vendors, especially my neighbors, even to learn, indeed an eye opener! The support businesses also got from the pitch competition; it is really commendable. Thank you so much Fashion Souk, we go global round the world together. God bless Fashion Souk.

JAOTEM

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Fashion Souk.

What is the Fashion Souk about?

The Fashion Souk, launched in 2018, is an initiative by Eventful Limited aimed at scaling up entrepreneurs in the Fashion and Beauty business. It serves as a platform to facilitate market access for small and medium-sized businesses through exhibitions and commerce.

Who is eligible to participate at the Fashion Souk?

The initiative is aimed at creative entrepreneurs across sectors of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Fashion and Beauty industries.

What does the Fashion Souk offer?

The Souk in collaboration with Wema Bank provides brand visibility, networking, sales opportunities and access to financial services and advisory for fashion and beauty businesses

How can I apply for Fashion Souk?

Applications will be announced via the Bank and Fashion Souk's social media platforms, external emails and third party platforms. Interested eligible vendors can apply by following the application guidelines provided during the application period.

Is there any cost associated with participating at the Fashion Souk?

The application form indicates the cost of stalls and only shortlisted vendors will be provided with payment details.

How are vendors selected for the Souk?

Interested vendors need to apply for a stall. Selections focus on the most creative and interesting brands using the brand's Instagram page for the vetting process.

Can I still apply if I already own a Business account with WEMA Bank?

Yes, but you must provide account details during the application process to proceed to the next stage if your business is shortlisted.

How do I open a business account?

You will either open business account using the link provided or wait to be assigned to an account officer after being invited to join the WhatsApp group created only for shortlisted vendors.

What support is provided to vendors in preparation for the Souk?

Shortlisted vendors will be invited to a WhatsApp business group where all the necessary information and support needed for the event will be provided.

How long does the Souk run?

The Souk runs for two days.

How can I stay updated on program announcements and activities?

Stay connected with SARABYWEMA and Fashion Souk social media channels:

IG: @sarabywema @thefashionsouk_ng

FB: @sarabywema

Visit our website sara.wemabank.com regularly, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest updates on program announcements, application deadlines, and other relevant information.