Kumasi Central Prison to hold groundbreaking inmates’ Runway Fashion Show

In an unprecedented move aimed at rehabilitation and societal reintegration, the Kumasi Central Prison will host a first-of-its-kind “Prisons Runway Fashion Show” on the 29th of December, 2025 inside the prison premises.

The initiative, spearheaded by the facility's leadership and aligned with the forward-thinking Think Prisons 360 Degrees initiative and Creative Arts policy seeks to showcase the untapped talents and creative potential of inmates.

The event is under the able leadership and vision of the Officer-In-Charge, Deputy Director of Prisons (DDP) James B Mwinyelle (Ing.), who has been instrumental in driving transformative programs within the prison service.

DDP Mwinyelle emphasized that the show is more than a spectacle; it is a core component of holistic offender management and reformation.“This fashion show is a bold statement that every individual possesses a gift that can be harnessed for good,” stated DDP Mwinyelle.

“By connecting our inmates with renowned fashion designers and providing this platform, we are not just building skills; we are rebuilding self-worth, fostering hope, and preparing them for constructive lives post-incarceration. This is the essence of the Think Prisons 360 Degrees philosophy.”

The Think Prisons 360 Degrees initiative advocates for a comprehensive approach to imprisonment, focusing on education, skills training, mental health, and societal reconnection as pivotal to reducing recidivism.

The runway will feature a unique cohort of models drawn directly from the inmate population. Participants will include models from the Kumasi Female Prison and six inmates each from the Central Prison’s A, B, and D Convict Blocks, as well as the Remand Block.

This diverse representation highlights the inclusive nature of the program. Adding professional prestige and creative direction to the event are several acclaimed Ghanaian fashion brands. The participating designers are:

· Starladin

· Rash Tailor

· JuJu Clothings

· LOD creations

· Manuel Clothings and Textiles

· House of Kotobre

· Golden Ohemaa's Collection

· Horseman Shoes

These designers have collaborated with the inmates, creating collections that will be modelled by them, in a powerful synergy between the prison community and the creative industry.

The Creative Director for the show, ASP Rashid Ennin revealed that preparations have been underway for weeks, with selected inmates undergoing training in grooming, posture, and runway etiquette. The atmosphere in the involved blocks is reported to be one of focused anticipation and boosted morale.

The show is expected to be attended by stakeholders from the Ghana Prisons Service, representatives from the Ministry of the Interior, civil society organizations, members of the fashion industry, and select media. Organizers hope the event will challenge public perceptions about inmates and open discussions on innovative rehabilitation methods.

About Think Prisons 360 Degrees: Think Prisons 360 Degrees is a reform-oriented initiative that promotes a holistic ecosystem for offender management, focusing on skill development, psychological support, and community engagement to ensure successful reintegration.