BA (Hons) Fashion Design students welcomed leading African menswear and lifestyle designer Samson Soboye to the University this term as their first Visiting Professional of the academic year.
Samson was invited to present as part of the University’s highly successful Visiting Professionals programme that sees industry experts deliver masterclasses and talks to often very small groups of students across all subjects. Recent guests have included our Vice Chancellor, Skin of Skunk Anansie and filmmaker Ken Loach.
The in-person talk also formed part of Leeds Arts University’s celebration of Black History Month and Black Excellence in art & design.
BA (Hons) Fashion Design senior lecturer Andrew Bailey-Bannister said:
“It’s been such an honour for both the students and I to be able to hear from and meet Samson Soboye. His passion, strong ethical approach to his practise and insurmountable success in the world of menswear design has really captured the imagination of our course. We look forward to cultivating some of the ideas his visit has inspired and developing the concepts discussed into the next academic term.” 
Image: Samson Soboye Visiting Professional to Leeds Arts University 2021 with BA (Hons) Fashion Design Students.
Image: Samson Soboye Visiting Professional to Leeds Arts University 2021 and Andrew Bailey-Bannister BA (Hons) Fashion Design Senior Lecturer
Samson Soboye is a British Nigerian womenswear and menswear designer who graduated from Central Saint Martins in 1994 and established his London based African Fashion & Lifestyle brand and boutique 'SOBOYE' in 2002. He champions craft and craftsmanship in design, and is committed to sustainable industries and working with small production units and local artisans in developing countries. His boutique also supports and gives a platform to both emerging and established African and Afro-Caribbean brands and design talent.
In 1999 Samson pursued his love of Textiles & Interiors by starting his own label: ‘Samson Soboye Home Couture’. He created elegant hand-made cushions and throws using faux furs, unusual hides, Mongolian Lamb, butter soft suede’s and leathers which were widely acclaimed by the style press and magazines.
Samson is also Head Stylist for African Fashion Week London (AFWL) with over 20 years’ experience in the creative industries.
Image: Samson Soboye Visiting Professional to Leeds Arts University 2021.