Planning to Compete at AGFG? Here’s How to Prepare Your Portfolio

If you’re considering participating in the African Global Fashion Games (AGFG), one of the first things you can do is put together a portfolio that properly represents your work.

1. Select Your Best Work

You don’t need to include every design you’ve ever created. Choose pieces that demonstrate your strengths, creative style and technical abilities.

Include clear photographs that show the complete designs, along with close-up images of important details such as stitching, finishing, fabric choices and construction techniques.

2. Explain the Work Behind Your Designs

A good portfolio should help someone understand what went into creating each piece.

Include a short description of the design, the materials and techniques used, and what you were trying to achieve.

If you worked with other professionals, such as tailors, textile producers, embroiderers or artisans, explain their contributions and the specific aspects of the work you handled.

3. Identify Your Competition Discipline and Level

AGFG will feature different fashion disciplines, including Couture, Ready-to-Wear, Streetwear, Heritage Craft, Textile Innovation, Accessories and Digital Fashion, among others.

Participants will also compete across different levels, based on the eligibility requirements for each discipline.

Before applying, review the available disciplines and consider which one best represents your skills and experience.

4. Understand How Participation Works

AGFG is an international championship where eligible designers and fashion professionals from participating countries compete within the same competition framework.

Countries begin their participation process by expressing interest and signing the AGFG Charter. They then complete the relevant requirements for coordinating their national participation and selecting eligible competitors.

As a designer, it’s important to follow your country’s participation announcements and the official AGFG registration process.

You can start preparing your portfolio now, but final entry will depend on the published qualification and application requirements.

5. Keep Your Documents Organised

Depending on your discipline and participation requirements, you may need to provide documents confirming your identity, eligibility and the originality of your work.

Keep relevant records organised and accessible so you can submit them when requested.

For designs involving traditional craftsmanship or cultural techniques, document the origins of the materials and methods used. If artisans or communities contributed to your work, ensure their involvement is properly acknowledged and any necessary permissions are obtained.