African culture and couture to take the stage at third annual fashion show – Indianapolis Recorder

The AfroStylez Fashion Show returns to Indianapolis this weekend for more fashion, culture and artistic expression. The event starts at 7 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Global Village Welcome Center. Doors will open at 6 p.m.

AfroStylez is hosted by Indy Black Professionals (IBP), a “community of Black professionals in the Indianapolis area dedicated to supporting and empowering one another in our personal and professional lives,” according to their official website.

The Indianapolis Recorder caught up with IBP’s founder Bunmi Akintomide to learn what guests can expect at this year’s fashion show and what’s next for the organization.

Indianapolis Recorder: What’s new this year for the AfroStylez Fashion Show?

Bunmi Akintomide: This year’s AfroStylez Fashion Show is going to be even more exciting than ever! We’re bringing in new elements like live performances from a musician and dancers to really elevate the experience.

Fashion shows are about more than just clothes—they’re about storytelling, energy and culture. This year, we’re blending fashion with other art forms to create a full sensory experience for our audience.

We’ve also made it easier for attendees to connect with the designers—people will have the opportunity to buy pieces directly from the runway, which makes the event even more interactive and impactful.

Recorder: Why is it important to showcase African designers and African-inspired clothing?

Akintomide: African designers and African-inspired clothing represent more than just fashion—they tell stories of heritage, resilience and innovation. By giving these designers a platform, we’re helping to amplify their voices and celebrate the diversity of African culture.

African fashion often draws from a deep well of tradition, while also pushing the boundaries of what’s modern and fresh. It’s important that we showcase these designers because they are creating a unique blend of the past, present, and future through their work.

In a world where diversity in fashion is more essential than ever, highlighting African-inspired designs helps challenge the often limited narratives of what fashion can be.

Recorder: How has the Indy Black Professionals organization grown over the years?

Akintomide: Indy Black Professionals has grown significantly since we first started. What began as a small group looking to network and support one another has blossomed into a thriving community of hundreds of professionals from various fields.

Over the years, we’ve expanded our programming to include workshops, networking events, and volunteer initiatives. Most notably, we’ve been able to build the AfroBall Indy Event Series, which includes the fashion show, AfroConnect and more.

We’ve seen a lot more engagement, not just from local Black professionals, but also from businesses and organizations that are now looking to partner with us to drive meaningful conversations around diversity, inclusion and professional growth.

Recorder: What can people look forward to next from Indy Black Professionals?

Akintomide: We have a lot in store for the future! One thing we’re especially excited about is the expansion of our AfroVoyage series. This year, we successfully completed our first group trip to South Africa, and next year, we’re headed to Ghana. The goal with AfroVoyage is to create deeper cultural connections by taking our members and the community on immersive journeys to the African continent.

On the professional front, we’re looking to expand our AfroConnect events to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, particularly when it comes to Black and African professionals.

Overall, you can expect Indy Black Professionals to continue growing its impact, both locally and globally, by creating spaces for networking, cultural exchange, and meaningful dialogue.

The Global Village Welcome Center is at 4233 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis, 46254. Tickets for the AfroStylez Fashion Show are $30 and are available for purchase through Eventbrite. For more information on Indy Black Professionals, visit indyblackprofessionals.com.