NEW YORK, NY – Supermodel, Oluchi, will participate in the March 26^th African Economic Forum at Columbia University in a panel discussion about the growing business of fashion on the African continent. The Face of Africa winner and Africa’s Next Top Model host will be joined by two designers, a fashion reporter and a fashion blogger and is expected to address a group of students and professionals on topics such as what it takes to make it in the industry, opportunities that exist for entrepreneurship and other fashion related topics.

In recent years, there has been a lot of buzz around the emergence of African designers during fashion weeks in major markets. With the FIFA World Cup being held in South Africa this summer and the increasing popularity of African models and designers in the main stream press, the conversation is a relevant and timely one.  The organizers of the forum hope to capitalize on this and generate thought provoking discourse. The panel discussion will be followed by a fashion show and cocktail reception.

The African Economic Forum has grown to be the largest Africa-focused event at Columbia University, and seeks to highlight opportunities and challenges through stimulating discussion, insights and strategies for a prosperous Africa. This year’s forum will also feature panels discussing regional tourism, law and economic development, media, South-South trade, infrastructure development, as well as a Niger Delta investment summit.

To purchase tickets/attend the conference, visit www.aef2010.com