Abuja: Tobechi Achionye, a multi-talented artist living with autism, also known as Kind Toby, made a historic debut on the runway at the Fashion Fusion Africa (FFA) 2025, becoming the first autistic model to walk the show’s runway.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the youngster was featured alongside other models at the event, which was held from October 18 to October 19 in Abuja. The FFA 2025, with the theme ‘Fables through Fabrics’, brought together designers from across Nigeria and beyond, fashion enthusiasts, and other stakeholders in the creative industry.
Kind Toby lit up the runway alongside other models at the grand finale on Sunday night, showcasing the collections of popular brands, including Ummys Glamour, Herboojah, and Elcheddre Luxury, among others. Mr. Obinna Obi, the Convener of FFA and Chief Executive Officer of Obitaris Consults and Events Ltd, stated that featuring the autistic model was intended to foster inclusivity in showcasing Africa’s creativity.
He explained that the event serves as a platform to showcase Africa’s rich stories through fabrics, and featuring Kind Toby on the runway is significant because his story brings humanity to the runway. He emphasized, “Whether Ankara, Tie and Dye, Asoke, or any local material, we want to tell the African stories through fabrics.”
Mr. Joshua Agu, the Founder of The Outbox Care Initiative, also praised Kind Toby’s courage and creativity, describing him as an inspiration to people living with disabilities. According to him, Kind Toby’s journey teaches empathy in action, and supporting him means supporting every young person with a dream that deserves to be seen.
Mrs. Adebisi Ummy, the Chief Executive Officer of Ummyls Glamour, remarked that having the young autistic model showcase the brand on the runway was an inspiring way to demonstrate inclusive opportunity in the creative industry.
Earlier in an interview with NAN at the sidelines, Mrs. Noni Okocha, the Chief Executive Officer of ‘I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative’, saluted the artist’s passion and courage. According to Okocha, author of the books “Be Kind by Toby” and “Understanding Autism,” his journey is a reminder that every young person has something unique to offer the world.
NAN reports that Kind Toby, born in Winnipeg, Canada to Nigerian parents, is a Nigerian-American young talent whose journey bridges art, music, and fashion. Diagnosed with autism as a child, he found his voice not in words, but in rhythm, colour, and design, as he draws logos and landscapes with photographic precision. As a music artist, he continues to inspire through his artistic and musical brilliance as he plays music beautifully by ear, often recreating songs after hearing them just once.
His debut single, “I Be Somebody,” has become a rallying anthem encouraging people to see the unseen, empower the youth, and support those living with disabilities. He is a second runner-up in Autism’s Got Talent in Atlanta, Georgia, USA (2022) and founder of ‘Be Kind by Toby: A Vision for Change.’
At his first major fashion showcase, Kind Toby’s historic walk became a celebration of courage, inclusion, and creativity.