„Education & Entertainment + “

## Fashion and Nigeria

What can Europe learn from Nigerian culture and fashion?

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Fashion designer and personal stylist Boryana Vatova traveled to Nigeria in 2018 and stayed there until 2020. The reason – an invitation to teach fashion at the Learn and Work academy, where she later became Head of the Design Department.

Boryana shares:

"When I moved to Nigeria, I realized how different the culture is from the European one. At first, it was difficult for me to find the right way to communicate. That’s when I started studying human nature more deeply and understood that if you approach people with genuine interest and respect, cultural differences become a bridge rather than a barrier. Gradually, I built a very strong connection with my students and the people there. They accepted me deeply and authentically, which was a great gift for me. Nigeria taught me to notice the small things, to be grateful, and to value human connection above all else."

On April 26th, we invite you to a first-hand story with both professional and personal perspectives. Through many photos, videos, and engaging stories, we will explore the following topics:

• The Learn and Work Academy and the educational model between Italy and Nigeria
• The students – their ambition and attitude toward knowledge and fashion
• Nigerian fashion energy – colors, silhouettes, textiles, symbolism
• Cultural identity as the foundation of style
• How elements of African aesthetics can be integrated into the European fashion context

The idea is to show that cultural exchange is not one-way – it is a dialogue.

At the end of the talk, you will have the opportunity to ask your questions to Boryana Vatova about her experience in Nigeria, its culture, and of course – her work in fashion.

📅 Date: April 29, 2026
⏰ Time: 20:30 – 22:30
🍷 A complimentary drink is included in a cozy atmosphere.
🎟️ Participation fee: €15
Please contact us to reserve your spot.
📍 Location: AfriKaya Studio, Lozenets district, 56–58 Krum Popov St., 3rd floor

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More about Boryana Vatova:

My name is Boryana Vatova and I am a fashion designer and personal stylist. Between 2018 and 2020, I lived and worked in Nigeria, where I taught fashion at the private Learn and Work academy – an institution based on an Italian-Nigerian partnership. I later became Head of the Design Department. This experience changed not only my professional path but also the way I communicate and build relationships with people. Nigeria taught me gratitude for the small things and deep respect for cultural identity. Today, this is reflected in my work – I build strong personal connections with the people I work with and believe that fashion is a bridge between cultures.