Young fashion designers from six universities showcased their creativity and technical skills at the second edition of the Inter-University Fashion Challenge held at the University of Kisubi in Entebbe.
The competition brought together emerging designers who competed in seven categories — Heritage, Modernity, Ghetto vs. Urban, Inclusive Fashion, Eco-Fashion, Color Your World and Accessories — in a showcase aimed at promoting student talent and opportunities in the creative industry.
Michelangelo College of Creative Arts was named the Best Fashion Institute of the Year 2026, while Brother Maryviane Ndikizimba of the University of Kisubi emerged as the Overall Best Student Fashion Designer of the Year.
Ndikizimba was selected from 34 contestants after presenting a two-piece gown made from cowrie shells, earning recognition for the design’s creativity and craftsmanship.
His overall prize included a sewing machine provided by Trillion Looks Store to support his continued work in fashion design.
Other students also took top honours in the various categories.
In the Heritage category, Ndikizimba emerged winner, while Tahiya Namutamba of Kampala University won Color Your World.
Kasera Cynthia Laureen of the University of Kisubi won Ghetto vs. Urban, while Niyigena Angella of Michelangelo College of Creative Arts took the Eco-Fashion award.
The Inclusive Fashion category was won by Deborah Najengo of Uganda Christian University. Nazziwa Jane of Michelangelo College of Creative Arts won Modernity, while fellow Michelangelo student Otto Enzio emerged winner in Accessories.
The event provided students with a platform to demonstrate how fashion can combine creativity, culture, innovation and entrepreneurship, while also exposing them to professionals and organisations within the creative sector.
Speaking at the event, Cerinah Nalwoga Kasirye, founder of Trillion Looks Store, commended the students for their creativity and thanked participating universities for supporting their students.
Kasirye encouraged more universities to participate in future editions of the competition, arguing that fashion and design can provide viable career and business opportunities for young people.
The event also featured contributions from creative industry stakeholders. Rasheeda Nalumoso of DoaDoa shared insights into opportunities and career pathways within the creative industry.
Other partners included World Skills, Micah of God and Leonessa Designs, as well as the Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board, represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Najib Nsubuga.
Organisers said the Inter-University Fashion Challenge is intended to give emerging designers an opportunity to showcase their work, develop their confidence and connect with the wider fashion and creative industries.
The second edition ended with a call for greater participation from universities and stakeholders as organisers look ahead to the 2027 Inter-University Fashion Challenge.
