The energy was electric at the Real Leather. Stay Different. Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase 2024 in Ethiopia, where sustainable fashion and Africa’s creativity took centre stage. Among the highlights was a keynote speech by Justina Torry, Senior Agricultural Attaché with the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), whose address celebrated the innovation and vision of Africa’s leather designers and underscored a commitment to sustainable practices in leather fashion.
Torry began by recognising key partners and organisers who made the event possible, including the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA), the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), and the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. She praised the collaborative spirit that has driven the showcase forward, emphasising the critical rolethe partnerships play in propelling the leather industry towards a sustainable future.
“As we gather here, the leather industry serves not only as an economic pillar but as a driving force in redefining fashion’s environmental footprint,” Torry stated. “The dedication and creativity displayed by the participants are truly remarkable, and I am deeply inspired by the commitment of all who support the leather industry.”
Her address highlighted the USDA’s various initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable business practices and empowering African entrepreneurs. One of the key programs, the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), launched in Ethiopia in 2024, seeks to bridge gender gaps in entrepreneurship by equipping women with the tools to succeed sustainably. The initiative, which has supported over 338 Ethiopian women and continues to empower female entrepreneurs across Africa, focuses on business development and critical networking opportunities.
“It is incredibly encouraging to see such gender balance among our talented designers,” Torry noted, speaking to the showcase’s inclusivity. “The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs is just one of many ways we are investing in the future of African businesswomen, ensuring they have the resources to succeed in sustainable industries.”
Torry also spotlighted the Mandela Washington Fellowship, an integral component of the U.S. government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). This program fosters professional development and connects young African leaders with U.S. institutions. “Through initiatives like YALI and AWE, we are supporting the next generation of African leaders,” she remarked, “providing invaluable opportunities for networking and skill-building, which will help shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for Africa’s business landscape.”
Expanding on USDA’s commitment to sustainable trade, Torry introduced the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP), which began in October 2023. This $1.2 billion initiative aims to boost market opportunities for U.S. agricultural products, with an emphasis on sustainable materials such as leather. She also spoke of the USDA’s Market Access Program (MAP), which supports organisations like the LHCA in promoting sustainable leather production and market engagement, amplifying the global reach of responsible leather practices.
Reflecting on the innovation seen throughout the showcase, Torry closed with optimism about the leather industry’s potential for environmental and economic transformation. “The excitement, talent, and innovation radiating from this room is powerful,” she said, encouraging designers to embrace sustainable practices and collaborative growth.
As the fashion showcase began, Torry expressed her anticipation for the creative runway presentations, confident that they would inspire a renewed vision for sustainable fashion. “There are no shortcuts to reaching the top, but events like this one demonstrate the dedication and resilience of Africa’s talent. I look forward to seeing how these designers redefine fashion’s environmental footprint through leather.”
Torry’s speech captured the essence of the Real Leather. Stay Different. Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase, affirming the importance of sustainable leather in transforming the global fashion landscape. By celebrating Africa’s creative leaders, the event not only highlighted the versatility of leather but also solidified Africa’s standing as a pioneer in responsible and innovative fashion design.