The America born designer Virgil Abloh is posthumously remembered for his cultural and traditional depiction of Africa on the global platform. He is said to open the doors of the continent to the world through fashion and give them a path & voice to represent their long historical roots.
The late artistic designer for Louis Vuitton men’s wear collection had his origin from Ghana, Africa which gave him the inspiration to bring his roots back to the world. Virgil Abloh died of cancer at the age of 41 and is recognised as the first major Black designer in the fashion industry that is often at the receiving end of criticism for its lack of diversity, to achieve a renowned status.
The artist has won accolades from various African designers and even partnered with Kanye West that took him to the heights of success from his red-hot label off-white to the luxury industry in Paris. Despite being born in the western land of America, Abloh stayed invested in his Ghana roots.
His connection with Ghanian roots wove the traditional fabric and paved a path for other designers from his land to enter the global world of fashion and be recognized at the top level. His sad demise though was unexpected for his peers and friends, who remember him as a strong, brave man with a knack for creativity that surpassed boundaries.
The fashion industry recalls him as the model for a major population of Africa who made it big and possible with his persistent efforts, creativity and successfully achieved a higher position in the top luxury house. He has set an example for others from his country to follow that one can attain success no matter one’s country, colour, or origin.
Some of the African designers said that as many Africans dream of making it big in the global fashion industry, the dream and its roots are taken away from them as they grow up. But Abloh provided the light to keep one’s dreams close to heart and pursue it barring all the odds.
