On September 5, 2026, Kinshasa will host the first Creative Currencies Panel Talk, a new platform created to foster meaningful conversations, connections and opportunities within the Congolese creative ecosystem.

For its inaugural edition, Creative Currencies presents a timely theme: “THE BUSINESS OF FASHION: When Creativity Becomes an Economic Force.”

Beyond fashion itself, the panel will explore how creativity can be transformed into sustainable careers, businesses, opportunities and economic value.

A Creative Industry Ready for the Next Step

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to an extraordinary generation of designers, stylists, photographers, models, artists, creative directors, entrepreneurs and other emerging talents.

But talent alone is no longer enough.

Professionalization, access to opportunities, business knowledge, investment, networking and stronger industry structures are essential to help creative talents build sustainable careers and position Kinshasa as a stronger force within the African and global creative economy.

These are some of the key questions that Creative Currencies aims to bring to the table.

IB Kamara as Guest of Honor

For its first edition, Creative Currencies will welcome IB Kamara as its guest of honor.

Recognized internationally for his work across fashion and creative direction, Kamara represents a generation of African creative voices that have successfully translated vision, identity and creativity into global influence.

His participation brings an international perspective to a conversation that remains deeply connected to the ambitions of Congo’s creative community.

More Than a Panel — A Space for Connection

The event is designed not only as a conversation, but also as an opportunity to meet, exchange ideas, ask questions and build meaningful connections.

Whether already working in the creative industry or aspiring to turn a passion into a profession, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with professionals and other members of the creative community.

At a time when Africa’s creative industries are gaining increasing international attention, conversations like these are essential to understanding how local talent can become sustainable economic power.

LICENCE SAYS

For Licence Magazine, supporting initiatives that give visibility, structure and momentum to Africa’s creative talents is essential.

LICENCE SAYS: Supporting the vision, amplifying creative voices and giving strength to a new generation shaping the future of Congo’s creative industry.

The talent is already here. Now, it is time to build the structures, opportunities and platforms that allow it to become a true economic force.

CREATIVE CURRENCIES — THE BUSINESS OF FASHION