Exploring Pakasa Art and Fashion: A Fusion of Creativity, Community and Opportunity

Fashion showcase by Lulungi Couture founded by Joanita Nabagesera- the creative behing the Pakasa Art and Fashion

Pakasa Art and Fashion is a community showcase and artvocacy campaign to promote the work of young creative entrepreneurs for better recognition, increased investment and participation in leadership. Pakasa Art and Fashion provided a platform for young creatives designers to show case their designs and gain visibility thus boosting their fashion, crafts and performing arts businesses.

Held in celebration of the 2026 International Women’s Day- Give to Gain, the event especially recognised the contribution of girls and young women in the creative and cultural ast sector to nurturing of talents and community development. The event featured models of various ages, sizes, backgrounds as well as people with disabilities to reflect the true diversity of the community.

Cheza Youth Initiative performing at Pakasa Art and Fashion

Moreover, the event showcased traditional costumes and textiles, enhancing appreciation for diverse heritages, this preserving our culture, bridging the gap between traditional heritage and contemporary fashion. Similarly, the event promoted Eco-friendly fashion by encouraging use of upcycled and locally sourced materials such as back cloth, kitenge, sisal and others

Pakasa Art and Fashion-season one was organized by Lulungi Couture with Sanyu Centre for Arts and Rights (SARI) in collaboration with Children’s Rights and Violence Prevention Fund (CRVPF) on 14^th March 2026 at Express Field Kanyanya. The event was laced with live performances of traditional and contemporary dances as well as testimonies of job creation among young creatives who have been trained in SARI- Empowering Youth through Data and Community Development program. The event was attended by local, women and youth leaders, development partners, youth, women and school children as well as six media houses.

Models showcasing bags made by Artists supported by SARI

Ten designers who had gone through SARI training program showcased their work with locally sourced items like Kitengi, bark cloth, beads and others, during the runway segments.

Similarly, the Artisan Corner consisted of stalls for local creators to sell their unique creations like bags, garments, perfume, jewellery, fabrics, and accessories. Some designers sold their pieces like bags and attires that were showcased on the runway, while others received orders from new customers that had attended the event. The designers got professional content for their social media with professional videos and photos that they received after the show.

Furthermore, a panel was held on discussions about inclusivity, entrepreneurship, community development and youth participation in leadership.

The team of panelists from Children's Rights Violence Prevention Fund at the Pakasa Art and Fashion

The community members recognized the benefits of vocational arts skills and the need to uphold these skills in young people for employment and catalysing social change.

More young people reported growing interest in the creative and cultural arts sector. Even with the informality that usually characterises the sector, Uganda’s youth have shown that that they can still make something out of their skills. Given the relevant resources, knowledge and appreciation, youth will not only transform their own lives, but also be catalysts of the development of the creative and cultural arts sector.