MONROVIA, Montserrado – Amid some challenges, the final showcase of African designs and talents at the Monrovia Fashion Week was a success.

Dozens of Liberian designers and models were seen gliding down the runway in their African inspired and designed outfits to the delight and excitement of the audience at P.A.’s Ribhouse in the Airfield community. The event followed weeks of intense rehearsal at the Lila Brown restaurant and was held between December 26-28.

Marjean Sherman, the founder of the event, told The Bush Chicken that organizers had to cancel the participation of international designers and models due to a shortage of sponsors.

“We needed to take care of these international designers and models expenses to and from Liberia, accommodation amongst other things,” Sherman said.

Marjean Sherman, Founder, and CEO of Monrovia Fashion Week. Photo: Zeze Ballah

Though the event did not meet the expectation of the organizers, Sherman said she was impressed with the Liberian designers and models.

“They worked tirelessly to get us where we are today and were also disciplined and did their best,” Sherman said.

There was a total of nine Liberian designers for this year’s event. Sherman said there were no winners selected for this event as done in previous years due to the lack of sponsorships.

Models preparing backstage. Photo: Zeze Ballah

Momo T. Vaii, one of the several designers at the event, told The Bush Chicken that he was overwhelmed with the designs and talents that were showcased at the Monrovia Fashion Week.

“This is my first big show in the country and I am highly impressed with the designs showcased,” Vaii said.

Momo T. Vaii Jr, MTC Clothing Line. Photo: Zeze Ballah

Alicia Johnson, who organized the casting call and trained the models, said she was also impressed by the event. She said though the lack of sponsorship overshadowed the event, it was rewarding.

“The models proved themselves today, and I believe Liberia will shortly join other countries on the international scene in the fashion industry,” Alicia added.

Monrovia Fashion Week first hit the scene in December 2013. Then, the event consisted of a five-day interactive celebration of fashion, culture, music and talent within the Liberia and beyond.

Model on the catwalk. Photo: Zeze Ballah

Models on the catwalk. Photo: Zeze Ballah

Featured photo by Zeze Ballah