By Dominic Hill

Africa is known for its unique culture and style and Kuumba Creations is bringing African flare to Tallahassee this weekend. Tallahassee African Fashion Weekend (TAFW) will commence at 9 p.m. on Friday, November 2.

Attendees are invited to the meet and greet on Friday from 9 p.m. from to 11 p.m. at The Alley Shoppe at 2029 S. Adams St.

The meet and greet will serve as an interactive kick-off to TAFW, as guests will be able to network with sponsors, models, vendors, designers, the production team and more, according to the TAFW official website.

The main event will be held Saturday, November 3, with a cocktail hour and red-carpet arrivals starting at 5 p.m.  The Ankara fashion show will begin promptly at 7 p.m. at the Wyndham Garden Inn at 1355 Apalachee Pkwy.

The pop-up show will conclude the weekend on Sunday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Mocha Reign Natural Hair Studio  at 1815 S Adams St #1.

The three-day celebration will allow community members to be exposed to the eclectic and unique fashion and culture of Africa.

Although born in Springfield, Ohio, Kuumba Creations designer and TAFW producer, Kandis Maureen, 35, is beyond thrilled to entice the Tallahassee community with African inspired threads.

“I am beyond excited to produce the show this year. You know what they say, third times a charm!” said Maureen.

Joseph Ward, author of “On the Shoulders of Giants,” will serve as the main event’s host. Ward, along with his co-host, is quite knowledgeable about African-American culture and will keep the audience excited and engaged.

Florida State University’s Images Modeling Troupe (IMT) will serve as featured models for the Ankara fashion show and will showcase eclectic designs and styles crafted by Kuumba Creations.

“I am a huge fan of Images,” said Maureen. “I just love their show performance, professionalism, and am so pleased to have them on board this year.”

Florida State sociology major and IMT President Najaius Neloms, 21, of Jacksonville, will serve as creative director for the fashion show and will introduce a more unique and mechanical runway style show.

“We look forward to showcasing the latest African fashion created by none other than Kuumba Creations…as well as wowing the crowd with our amazing performance,” said Neloms.

The Afiya Magazine media team will conduct a red carpet pre-show before the fashion show.

The pop-up shop on Sunday will conclude TAFW;  designs from Kuumba Creations, as well as featured vendors Nubian Gods and Jide Gear, among others, will be available for purchase.

Tickets for the main event are available now at the TAFW website and start at $20. Admission for the meet and greet and pop-up shop is free.