This year, Ghanaian designer Sarfo of Styles will be showcasing a collection Africa Fashion Week New York (AFWNY). Designers from all across Africa will be showcasing at AFWNY in its second year and the runway and trunk shows are expected to raise awareness and market the talent and skills of diverse fashion professionals.

In other related news, Adiat Disu, director of AFWNY 2011 has announced the appointment of Adda Tidjani to the position of executive producer of AFWNY 2011, which is set to take place from July 14-16 at the Broad Street Ballroom 41 Broad St. New York NY 10004.  Adda Tidjani was born in Yaoundé, Cameroon and raised in Brussels, Belgium. After moving to New York to pursue a career in Journalism, she became involved with Adirée, the parent company and agency behind AFWNY 2011. Adirée focuses on event production, organization, and consulting for small to medium size clients in the areas of Fashion, Art, and Culture.

“Fashion can change things. Adirée is a fashion powerhouse and by creating AFWNY, it is simultaneously giving Africa a platform to compete on an international scale, showcasing its brighter side and contributing to the local economy” said Adda Tidjani.

Adiat Disu, AFWNY director, personally handpicked Adda Tidjani as AFWNY 2011 producer. “We cannot develop Africa without developing the people around us. As African women, I believe that working together, we will succeed in breaking barriers and display Africa’s creative talents” said Adiat Disu. “My team is filled with diversity representing the Diaspora, a model that should be mirrored by all organizations.”

AFWNY is produced by Adirée and include runway shows hosting over 21 designers from various countries in Africa and those of the African Diaspora, exhibitions, and industry networking events. Some of the featured designers include Saint Wobil, AAMAA Couture and Bill Witherspoon.

Danielle Martin Cicero, a bridal and special occasion’s designer will also showcase at the event. The Danielle.Cicero line was created to fill the need for informal bridal apparel. Other than specializing in formal gowns, Cicero designed a collection combining cocktail and tea length dresses and informal gowns. Each dress presents individuality and luxury with sumptuous detailing like hand embroidery and beading—nontraditional, modern yet royal.

While the world has anticipated the designer who would be crowned the honor of dressing Catherine Middleton for the royal weeding (Alexander McQueen), Cicero niche bridal wear designer has been working on become a household name.

“I wanted a bride or bridesmaid to be able to have an elegant yet festive look for all their engagement parties. My looks range from something flirty and fun for the bachelorette party, a stunning gown or tea length frock for the ceremony and a fabulous reception dress to celebrate and dance the night away” -Danielle Martin-Cicero