Joan Okorodudu, an iconic figure in the global fashion industry, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Presidential Award at the Runway International Fashion Awards (RIFAS) in Baltimore, United States. Founded in 2017, RIFAS was established to recognize the outstanding achievements of creatives within the independent fashion industry, covering sectors such as fashion design, modeling, makeup artistry, hairstyling, nail technology, barbers, stylists, fashion media, influencers, boutique owners, and other contributors to the fashion world.
Joan Okorodudu’s accolade is a testament to her extraordinary influence and impact on the global fashion stage. A graduate of Boston University and a former Miss Nigeria, Joan has built a legacy that transcends continents. She is the founder of Africa’s largest model search platform and has secured modeling opportunities for African talents at major fashion shows worldwide. Her work has transformed the fashion industry, giving African models the visibility and opportunities they deserve on international runways.
As Managing Director of International Business Consortium Nigeria Limited, and founder of ISIS Models Africa, Runways to Freedom NGO, Africa’s Next Super Model, Nigeria’s Next Super Model, and Africa Fashion Collective London, Joan has been at the forefront of shaping African fashion and modeling for decades. Her notable past achievements include organizing high-profile events like Africa International Fashion Week, Vogue Talents for Africa in 2015, and ECOWAS Fashion Week in 2013 and 2014.
Through her various ventures, Joan has championed African models, designers, and creatives, fostering their growth and providing platforms for their talents to shine on the global stage. This Lifetime Presidential Award at RIFAS is a recognition of her relentless commitment to pushing African fashion to new heights and her contributions to the international fashion industry.
Joan Okorodudu’s work has touched the lives of countless individuals, and her influence continues to inspire the next generation of fashion professionals. As she adds this prestigious honor to her long list of achievements, DernierCri Magazine celebrates Joan’s groundbreaking journey and looks forward to the future milestones she will undoubtedly continue to reach. Congratulations, Joan Okorodudu! Your legacy is truly unparalleled.
