Team Members

Uyi Aigbe Granville, known as Sam, is a visionary entrepreneur, cultural ambassador, and influential figure in the African creative industry. With over 12 years of experience in fashion and the cultural arts, he has become a key player in fostering collaboration between African designers, SMEs, and global markets.

Professional Background and Contributions
Uyi is the Founder and CEO of the Cabo Verde International Fashion Hub, an initiative designed to position Cabo Verde as a prominent cultural and creative hub. The hub’s mission is to support emerging designers, promote sustainability, and advocate for diversity in the fashion industry. Through his leadership, he has facilitated mentorship and capacity-building programs that have helped elevate African fashion on the global stage.

In addition to his work in fashion, Uyi is the Founding Member and National Director of Miss Cabo Verde International, a platform dedicated to empowering women through pageantry and social impact projects. The event combines cultural celebration with advocacy, promoting gender equity, empowerment, and social change, while showcasing Cabo Verde’s rich heritage.

Uyi is also an active cultural ambassador for One Vision. One Voice for Africa, a campaign that focuses on promoting sustainable development and economic liberation across Africa. His role here is to support the textile and fashion industries, aligning with broader initiatives like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), further enhancing his influence on the African creative sector.

Cabo Verde Fashion Week (CVFW)
A key initiative led by Uyi is the Cabo Verde Fashion Week (CVFW), which aims to position Cabo Verde as a global fashion destination. Scheduled for April 2025, the event will showcase the best of Cabo Verdean and African fashion, promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural craftsmanship. CVFW is expected to attract a diverse, international audience and foster collaborations that will significantly raise Cabo Verde’s profile in the global fashion industry.

Legacy and Vision
Uyi’s work reflects his commitment to leveraging fashion as a tool for economic development, empowerment, and cultural celebration. His leadership in founding platforms like CVFW and the Cabo Verde International Fashion Hub demonstrates his vision for a thriving African fashion ecosystem. By creating these opportunities, Uyi is ensuring that Cabo Verde and Africa at large remain integral players in the global creative economy.

Through his efforts, Uyi Aigbe Granville continues to inspire the next generation of African innovators and creatives, establishing Cabo Verde as a beacon of cultural and creative excellence.