The clock is ticking for Africa’s emerging and established leather designers. With the June 6 deadline fast approaching, participants in the Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD) Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase 2025 are racing to submit their design sketches, concept write-ups, and materials lists—hoping to secure a place in the continent’s most prestigious sustainable leather design competition.
Now in its third year in Africa and fifth globally, RLSD is the initiative of the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA), run in collaboration with the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI). In Africa, it is coordinated by the Center for Business Innovation and Training (CBiT), with editions running concurrently in countries such as China, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and across Europe.
RLSD Africa is open to university students, SMEs, and independent fashion designers, inviting them to reimagine the future of fashion through sustainability, creativity and craftsmanship. The competition calls for designs that incorporate at least 50% cowhide leather—banning the use of fur or exotic skins—and embrace the ethos of slow fashion.
The 2025 edition features three competitive categories: Footwear, Accessories, and Apparel, with additional awards including the Most Commendable Designer Award and the People’s Choice Award, the latter determined through public voting.
Among last year’s standout participants was Stephen Maosa, a master’s student at the University of Nairobi, whose Transformable Travel Bag—made from upcycled denim and leather—won the 2024 People’s Choice Award. His work was praised for its innovation and eco-conscious design, and has since inspired a wave of entries from university students and fashion start-ups across the continent.
Also notable is the return of Ruth Girmay of Ethiopia, who won the Most Commendable Designer Award in both the 2023 and 2024 editions. In a significant nod to her rising influence, Ruth has now joined the 2025 judging panel, marking a celebrated transition from designer to mentor. Her 2024 entry, the Overfishing Bag—a compelling advocacy piece for marine conservation—earned a standing ovation at the RLSD International Showcase in London, where it caught the attention of European fashion houses exploring future collaborations.
“This is exactly what RLSD is all about—discovering talent, nurturing it, and giving it a global platform,” said Mrs Beatrice Mwasi, Managing Director at CBiT. “This year’s submissions have been both impressive and beautifully diverse. Designers across Africa are stepping up with bold, thought-provoking ideas.”
Designers are reminded that no physical product is required at this stage. Submissions should include sketches, design drawings or digital renderings, a written concept narrative, and a detailed materials list, uploaded through the competition’s portal.
Following the deadline, a panel of esteemed judges—including industry leaders and design experts from across the globe—will evaluate a shortlist of 30 entries, ultimately selecting 15 finalists across the three categories. The overall winner will earn the opportunity to present their work at the RLSD International Showcase in Europe, where they will engage with buyers, fashion thought leaders, and sustainability advocates.
The final event and award ceremony for RLSD Africa 2025 will take place in December, with the host country to be announced. All 15 finalists, along with the People’s Choice winner, will be fully facilitated to attend the showcase, which will feature exhibitions, networking sessions, and a leather fashion runway show.
As the June 6 deadline looms, aspiring designers are urged to finalise their submissions and take their place in reshaping fashion with creativity and purpose.
To register or submit your entry, visit: https://rlsd.internationaldesigncomp.com
