Thriving in fashion and design is not difficult – Baffoe Joseph
By Love Wilhelmina Abanonave The General Manager of Riohs College of Design, Baffoe Joseph, says success in Ghana’s fashion and design industry depends on practitioners’ exposure, lifestyle and willingness to collaborate. He was speaking at the Riohs Graduate Show 2026, which showcased the creative works of the institution’s graduating students. Mr. Baffoe challenged the perception […]
Baffoe Joseph, the General Manager of Riohs College of Design, has emphasized that thriving in Ghana's fashion and design industry is not difficult. Speaking at the Riohs Graduate Show 2026, he challenged the notion that succeeding in fashion is a hard feat, stating that it is a misconception born from an overly restrictive perspective of the profession.
According to Baffoe, thriving in fashion entails more than just sketching and sewing; it involves immersing oneself in the fashion culture, environment, and networks that fuel creativity.
He stressed that aspiring fashion industry professionals must engage in activities that complement their craft, such as attending fashion-related events and networking with industry players. Baffoe urged students and young designers to be visible at key creative and entertainment events like fashion shows, music awards, and other cultural gatherings, as these venues provide inspiration and opportunities for forging connections.
Furthermore, the General Manager highlighted the influence of a designer's lifestyle on their creative output, asserting that exposure to diverse environments and experiences is essential for opening one's mind. He advised students to dine at various establishments, such as Kempinski, to gather inspiration and foster networking opportunities.
Baffoe cautioned against a narrow lifestyle, warning that a diet limited to traditional Ghanaian dishes like banku could stifle creativity. Instead, he encouraged a more varied diet to inspire fresh ideas and perspectives.
Collaboration, rather than competition, was another key principle Baffoe emphasized for growth in the creative industry. He encouraged designers to view themselves as collaborators and partners rather than competitors, advocating for expanding their energies towards teamwork and partnership. The Riohs Graduate Show 2026, which showcased the creative works of the college's graduating students, featured runway presentations, exhibitions, and displays highlighting innovation, sustainability, and Ghanaian identity in fashion design.
The event drew industry players, alumni, fashion enthusiasts, and the public to celebrate emerging talent and the evolving fashion landscape in Ghana, with the theme "Fashion as a language (Design is the new dialect)."
Written by urgent.news from GBC Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
