Creative DNA

Empowering Malawi's Creative Spirit

Welcome to Creative DNA Malawi — The British Council partners with designer Lilly Alfonso to launch Creative DNA Malawi, a fashion accelerator empowering emerging designers through mentorship, business training, and global networks. This initiative strengthens Malawi’s creative economy by nurturing sustainable brands for international markets.

About Creative DNA MALAWI

Creative DNA is a proven fashion accelerator that has already made a significant impact across Africa, supporting over 200 emerging designers in Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Senegal. The programme has played a pivotal role in strengthening the continent’s fashion ecosystem by providing access to prestigious platforms such as London Fashion Week, Hub of Africa Fashion Week, and #CANEXPresentsAfrica.

With Africa’s fashion industry valued at an impressive $31 billion, the expansion of Creative DNA to Malawi marks a strategic move to position fashion as a viable and lucrative career path. The programme equips designers with the skills, funding, and networks needed to scale their businesses sustainably, fostering innovation and economic growth in the creative sector.

Our Vision & Mission

Our vision is to establish Malawi as a hub of innovative and sustainable fashion by nurturing local talent and connecting them with global opportunities. We aim to transform the creative landscape by providing the tools and exposure necessary for designers to thrive internationally.

Our mission is deeply aligned with Lilly Alfonso’s ambitious 100-Year Plan, a long-term strategy to foster sustainable growth in Malawi’s creative industries. Through Creative DNA Malawi, we provide tailored mentorship, business training, and access to international markets, ensuring that fashion becomes a driving force for economic development. Vera Ng’oma, Country Director of the British Council in Malawi, underscores this commitment: “This expansion strengthens our dedication to positioning fashion as a catalyst for innovation and economic progress.”

What We Offer

Programs & Workshops

Our range of programs is designed to equip you with practical skills and creative inspiration. Whether you’re a budding artist or an experienced designer, you’ll find opportunities such as Creative Workshops, Mentorship Programs, Networking Events, Creative Salons & Challenges.

Creative Economy

We aren’t just about ideas—we’re about action. By reinforcing the creative economy in Malawi, Creative DNA MALAW works to: Bridge the gap between art and commerce, Enhance market access for independent creators and Stimulate innovative business models that respect cultural heritage while propelling economic growth.

Our Achievements

Our achievements not only underscore Creative DNA Malawi's pivotal role in nurturing local talent but also set a new benchmark for innovation and collaboration within Malawi’s creative economy.

Strategic Partnerships & Industry Leadership

Creative DNA Malawi is a result of the visionary collaboration between Lilly Alfonso—a prominent figure in Malawi’s fashion industry—and the British Council. This partnership has strengthened the program’s foundation and positioned it as a critical driver of growth within Malawi’s creative sector

Empowerment of Local Designers

Creative DNA has empowered more than 200 fashion businesses across Africa, many of which have gained recognition on prestigious platforms like London Fashion Week and Hub of Africa Fashion Week. The programme has significantly contributed to the growth of Africa’s $31 billion fashion industry by equipping designers with the skills and networks needed to succeed.

Transformational Impact on Mindset

Participants have reported significant shifts in how they view creativity and self-expression. For example, Lilly Alfonso has shared her personal transformation—moving from simply creating to thinking bigger and tackling challenges as a creative professional.