By Yemisi Suleiman
Although it wasn’t my first time visiting London, this trip this summer was different and left sweet memories.
From check-in to landing with Ethiopian Airlines, the experience was top-class. The crew were warm and attentive, the meals were thoughtful, and I truly felt cared for throughout the flight.
Landing in London came with its special feeling. With the red buses dotting the landscape, the summer glow and the city’s pulse, the city welcomed me back like an old friend. I settled in, ready for an exciting week ahead.
The much-anticipated AFWL 2025 kicked off at the striking Space House London on Day 3. Its futuristic design was the perfect stage for a cultural celebration. For two days on the runway, designers fused African traditions with modern fashion, creating bold and unforgettable looks. The energy inside was electric, fashion, culture, and identity, beautifully showcased.
Andy, Núria Assis, and Yared Bizuneh
Day 5 – After AFWL
A quiet day of rest, reflecting on the incredible talent at the fashion week. London’s calm summer evenings gave me time to recharge before the next big event.
Day 6 – Africa Travel Shows Preview
I joined my dear friend and designer, Mary Martin London at Hammersmith Road for the Africa Travel Shows Influencer Preview hosted by Africa Travel Connect. It was an intimate evening filled with culture, music, and vision. We explored the Gastronomy Hut, tasting Ethiopian delicacies, Nigerian goat meat pepper soup, and African wines.
The event, an invite-only primer for the forthcoming Africa Travel Show (12–13 September 2025), brilliantly illustrated how travel, culture, and creativity interlock. The evening featured immersive cultural zones and the official programme presentation.
It also offered a vibrant preview of what’s to come, with cultural showcases that brought Africa to life in London.
Beyond the immersive showcases, the evening laid out the major aims of the forthcoming Africa Travel Show, which is basically to set the narrative by presenting Africa authentically through its culture, food, fashion, music, and history. To showcase experiences that position African cuisines, arts, and lifestyle as mainstream in the UK and beyond. And finally, to build partnerships and business, connecting tourism boards, airlines, tour operators, and suppliers in ways that drive investment, bookings, and long-term collaboration.
Yemisi Suleiman with Mary Martin
Day 7 – Caribbean Dinner
Mary Martin and I were joined by Miss Angola, whom I had met previously at the AFWL, and supermodel Hassan had dinner at a lively Caribbean restaurant in Hammersmith. The atmosphere was vibrant, with good food, laughter, and heartfelt conversations about culture, fashion, and the future of Africa’s global voice.
Day 8 – Enish Restaurant, Lewisham
I met up with my long-time friend and former colleague, and currently SA to Nigeria’s Aviation Minister -Tunde Moshood, and his London friends at Enish Restaurant, Lewisham. Over delicious Nigerian dishes, we reminisced about old times, shared industry insights, and celebrated how far we’ve both come. It was a dinner filled with warmth and nostalgia.
Day 9 – Exploring London
No London trip is complete without sightseeing. I spent the day exploring Covent Garden, soaking up its mix of fashion, street performances, and art. Later, I stopped by Harrods, where luxury and style always inspire. It’s always a beautiful sight and a great window shopping experience. Lol.
Day 10 – Closing Moments
As my journey drew to an end, I felt grateful. From the creativity of AFWL to the vision of the Africa Travel Shows Preview, this trip was more than fashion or travel; it was about identity, pride, and connection.
London gave me memories of culture, friendships, and meaningful conversations that will stay with me forever.