RAFT X 2024: Veekee James and DJ Abass Lead the Celebration of Global Creativity in London

Judges DJ Abass, Lady T and Ramzi stylishly graced the red carpet

RAFT X 2024 lit up the heart of London in September this year, as thousands gathered at The Intercontinental to celebrate African creativity and culture. Sponsored by Harvesters London, the event was a vibrant showcase of fashion, music, and global cuisine, with attendees calling it a remarkable success for London’s creative scene.

Exhibitors like Toke Cosmetics, The Queen Rah, and Wigs and Curve brought beauty to life, while the catwalk dazzled with collections from ALESSA Collection, Duvessso Ventures, and Chiefo. The runway sparkled as KBS Models displayed the season’s finest African-inspired designs, leaving the audience captivated.

VeeKee James speaks with attendees at RAFT X 2024

A standout moment of the event was the fireside chat with award-winning Nigerian designer Veekee James, whose global fashion brand and over 1.6 million social media followers have made her a household name. Sharing her story, Veekee revealed how her 2023 masterclass transformed the careers of over 100 creatives worldwide, inspiring the next wave of talent. “RAFT X was inspiring and fun,” she said. “It’s wonderful to see so many people sharing their passions while learning how to enter creative industries.”

The talent show finale added even more excitement, with judges Lady T, DJ Abass, and Ramzi crowning Jessica Edgar (Poetess Jess) as the winner. Siobhan Elouise sang her way to second place, while spoken word artist Dominic Ajogbei claimed third.

Yomi Oddelm, Program Coordinator for RAFT X, emphasized that the event aims to create a platform for global product representation spanning food, fashion, and talent. "We hope that 2025 will bring even greater representation across diverse cultures and countries," he stated

RAFT X 2024 was proudly sponsored by Harvesters London.