In the heart of Ghana, where tradition and innovation intertwine seamlessly, David Kusi Boyedoe is forging a new path in the global fashion industry. As the creative director and founder of BOYEDOE, an Afro-luxurious brand rooted in deconstruction and reconstruction, he is making waves by blending African heritage with contemporary aesthetics and a fierce commitment to sustainability. His recent recognition as a semi-finalist for the 2025 LVMH Prize further cements his position as one of Ghana’s rising fashion stars.
The Birth of BOYEDOE: An African Luxury Brand with a Conscience
David Kusi’s journey in fashion is deeply personal, driven by a mission that extends beyond aesthetics – creating a brand that is both luxurious and environmentally conscious.
The memory is still vivid: a young David Kusi, sitting beside his grandmother, watching her skillfully mend old clothes with the precision of a master craftswoman. The needle moved like a storyteller, weaving narratives of resilience, sustainability, and the quiet elegance of reimagination.
“I have always felt the need to create an African brand with a conscience,” he explains. “We are living in an era where climate change is a pressing concern, and the fashion industry plays a significant role in environmental degradation. I wanted to change that narrative by designing garments that are timeless, sustainable, and reflective of our heritage.”
This philosophy is inspired by the Ghanaian concept of Sankofa, symbolized by a bird looking backward while moving forward. For David Kusi, understanding the past—African craftsmanship, textile traditions, and sustainable practices—is essential to shaping a future where African fashion stands at the forefront of global luxury.
Blending Heritage with Modernity
BOYEDOE’s designs are a testament to the richness of African culture, reimagined for a global audience. David Kusi draws inspiration from his Ashanti heritage, a culture known for its deep-rooted traditions and craftsmanship.
He recalls a defining moment: standing in a bustling Ghanaian market, surrounded by the intoxicating scent of dyed fabric, the rhythmic hum of sewing machines, and the chatter of artisans who had inherited their craft through generations.
“Africa has always been the home of craftsmanship,” he asserts. “Unfortunately, for a long time, we leaned towards Western influences, forgetting that we are the game-changers. The biggest fashion houses have always drawn inspiration from African craftsmanship, textiles, and artistry. My goal is to amplify African elements in a way that seamlessly fits into the global fashion landscape.”
His creative process involves studying global fashion trends while ensuring that African identity remains at the core of his designs. Through the incorporation of traditional fabrics, textures, and eclectic patterns, he crafts pieces that are not only visually compelling but also culturally significant.
Sustainability: More Than a Trend, A Way of Life
Unlike many brands that are only now embracing sustainability, David Kusi emphasizes that sustainability has always been an intrinsic part of African culture.
“In Africa, clothes are passed down from generation to generation. We mend, restyle, and cherish them. Our normal way of dressing has always been sustainable. This is not a new concept for us,” he says, his voice carrying the weight of ancestral wisdom.
BOYEDOE takes this ethos further by incorporating recycled materials into its collections. The brand initially used 80% recycled fabrics and 20% new textiles, gradually transitioning to a 60-40 balance. Some of its handwoven fabrics are made from discarded clothing, transformed into yarn and re-spun into new textiles. This approach not only reduces waste but also supports local artisans, fostering a sustainable ecosystem within the fashion industry.
The LVMH Prize: A Game-Changer for BOYEDOE and African Fashion
Being named a semi-finalist for the 2025 LVMH Prize is a defining moment for David Kusi, validating years of dedication and hard work.
“LVMH has always been my dream,” he admits. “It’s the holy grail for emerging designers. The recognition alone is groundbreaking—not just for me, but for Ghana and the entire African continent. It proves that the world is watching, and it’s pushing me to deliver even more.”
David Kusi’s journey to this stage wasn’t without challenges. He applied for the prize two years ago but didn’t make the cut. The setback was a turning point—fueling his determination to refine his brand and articulate his vision with greater clarity.
“I had to refine my brand, articulate my vision more clearly, and prove that African luxury is not just a trend—it’s the future.“
His resilience paid off. Now, he stands among the top emerging designers poised to take African fashion to the world stage.
A Vision for the Future
While winning the LVMH Prize would be a career-defining achievement, David Kusi’s ambitions extend far beyond the competition. He envisions BOYEDOE becoming a household name in global fashion, collaborating with major luxury brands while remaining firmly rooted in Africa.
“We are focused on growth, but not at the expense of our mission and values,” he states. “Scaling up doesn’t mean losing sight of what makes us unique. That’s why we produce our garments in-house in Ghana, maintaining quality control and authenticity.“
Despite opportunities to relocate to the West, he remains committed to building his brand from Africa, proving that the continent can be a powerhouse in sustainable luxury fashion. His vision includes establishing pop-ups, showcasing his work internationally, and encouraging global audiences to discover African brands firsthand.
Final Thoughts: A Designer with a Purpose
David Kusi BOYEDOE is not just designing clothes; he is crafting a legacy. His commitment to sustainability, cultural storytelling, and ethical fashion is setting a new standard for what African luxury can be.
As he prepares to showcase his work at Tranoï in Paris and the LVMH showroom, the world is watching—ready to embrace a designer who is reshaping the future of fashion, one conscious creation at a time.
