Egypt’s Farida Eid has been named Most Commendable Designer 2025 at the Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD) Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase — becoming the first Egyptian to win the prestigious title in the competition’s history.
The RLSD Showcase is part of a global campaign that champions natural leather as a sustainable, high-quality alternative to synthetic materials, while spotlighting emerging African design talent on the international stage.
Eid’s award-winning design, the Zahw – Serpent Sandal, stood out among fierce competition, earning acclaim for its compelling blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation.
A Tribute to Egyptian Heritage
Crafted from deep purple cowhide leather and accented with copper serpent motifs, the Zahw Sandal reinterprets ancient Egyptian symbolism — notably the serpent, a historic emblem of sovereignty and divine authority — through a bold, modern design language.
Judges praised the sandal as a powerful narrative piece, showcasing leather not only as a sustainable material, but also as a medium for cultural storytelling.
Elevating African Design on the Global Stage
Farida Eid’s win signals a growing pan-African presence in sustainable fashion, reinforcing the role of African designers in shaping the future of ethical and culturally rooted fashion design.
The Real Leather. Stay Different. initiative is organized by the Leather and Hide Council of America (L&HCA) in collaboration with Leather Working Group (LWG) and regional fashion development bodies. The Africa Talent Showcase offers young designers access to mentorship, visibility, and international platforms.
Egypt’s Rising Fashion Influence
Eid’s historic win also underscores Egypt’s rising profile in the world of contemporary design. With deep-rooted artistic traditions and an increasingly vibrant creative industry, Egyptian designers are gaining recognition far beyond regional borders.
