The British Fashion Council has unveiled the winner of the BFC/gq Designer Fashion Fund for this year with Labrum the recipient of a £100,000 grant, among other benefits.
The Fund identifies and accelerates outstanding British designer businesses and as well as the cash element of the prize, the winner gets a year-long mentorship, pro-bono legal services from law firm Sheridans, and access to a network of specialist advisors tailored to its business needs.
As part of the BFC Foundation, the Fund sits within a collective of other prizes and programs designed to support the development of “commercially resilient” British fashion businesses.
Labrum is far from a newcomer having been founded by Foday Dumbuya in 2014. Its roots lie in his formative years in Sierra Leone, Cyprus and London and the label merges African values with British tailoring.
The BFC’s chief executive Laura Weir said the Fund “exists to back exceptional British design talent and help build resilient, future-facing businesses. Foday’s ability to consistently elevate his collections while maintaining a distinct creative vision reflects the strength and originality that British fashion is known for globally.
“Through stories rooted in heritage, community and diaspora, labrum continues to shape a powerful cultural dialogue with lasting impact. We are proud to work with the team at British GQ to support the brand’s continued growth and help accelerate its momentum at this important stage of its journey.”
Dumbuya added: “Winning is an incredibly special moment for me and everyone who has been part of the Labrum journey. As a brand built on the stories of migration, identity and cultural exchange, this recognition is a reminder that those stories matter. The Fund will give us the platform, resources and confidence to continue building Labrum into a truly global British brand, allowing us to invest in our team, strengthen our business and reach new audiences while staying true to the community and values that brought. us here.”
The judging panel included Weir as well as GQ’s Murray Clark (head of Editorial Content) and Angelo Mitakos (fashion editor), plus brand consultant Lewis Bloyce, stylist Rudy Simba Betty, Harrods director of Buying Simon Longland, artist and designer Skepta, and Sheridans partner Tahir Basheer.
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