Tobechi Achionye, known as Kind Toby, has made his debut on the runway at Fashion Fusion Africa (FFA) 2025 in Abuja.
Kind Toby, a Nigerian-American artist and musician living with autism, became the first autistic model to walk the FFA runway.
The two-day event, themed “Fables through Fabrics”, held from October 18 to 19, featured designers from Nigeria and other parts of Africa.
He joined other models at the grand finale on Sunday, showcasing collections from brands such as Ummys Glamour, Herboojah and Elcheddre Luxury.
The convener of FFA and chief executive officer of Obitaris Consults and Events Ltd, Obinna Obi, said featuring the autistic model was aimed at promoting inclusivity in the fashion industry.
According to Mr Obi, the event celebrates African creativity through fabrics such as Ankara, tie and dye and Asoke, while creating opportunities for everyone to participate regardless of background.
Joshua Agu, founder of The Outbox Care Initiative, commended Kind Toby for his courage and creativity, describing him as an inspiration to people living with disabilities.
Chief executive officer of Ummys Glamour, Adebisi Ummy, said working with the young model was a way to promote inclusive participation in the creative industry.
Noni Okocha, founder of I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative, praised the artist’s passion, noting that his journey shows that every young person has something unique to contribute.
Born in Winnipeg, Canada to Nigerian parents, Kind Toby was diagnosed with autism as a child.
He found expression through art, music and design, creating logos and landscapes with precision.
As a musician, he is known for playing songs by ear and inspiring listeners with his single ‘I Be Somebody.’
He was the second runner-up in Autism’s Got Talent in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2022 and is the founder of Be Kind by Toby: A Vision for Change.
