World renowned luxury eyewear mogul, Anna-Karin Karlsson graced the Akoka campus of the University of Lagos with her presence on Thursday, November 20, 2025, as part of itinerary for her first official visit to Nigeria.
The renowned fashion icon was received by staff and students of the Faculty of Creative Arts led by the Dean, Professor Stephen Olusoji along with the Director of the Office of Advancement, UNILAG, Dr. Mrs Taiwo Ipaye. The highpoint of Ms. Karlsson’s visit was the students’ engagement session which was held at the Board Room of the Creative Arts.
During the session, Ms. Karlsson shared insights on her journey to becoming one of the most sought-after eyewear designers in the world, factors that informed her preference for eye wares and her impression about Nigeria’s pool of young creative talents.
The Swedish designer engaged participants in a dynamic question and answer session which addressed issues such as sustainability in the luxury markets, role of Africa in global fashion, and ways young designers can build authentic, culturally rooted brands.
Responding to questions, Ms. Karlsson emphasized that true luxury is not merely about price, but about craftsmanship, intentionality, and depth.
Earlier, in his remarks to welcome the global fashion icon, the Dean of the Faculty of Creative Arts, Professor Stephen Olusoji described Ms. Anna-Karin Karlsson’s visit as UNILAG’s commitment to town and gown engagement for improved students’ learning experience. He assured of the faculty’s willingness and readiness to explore collaborative opportunities with the AKK brand.
While highlighting the faculty’s milestones especially in raising most of Nigeria’s entertainment and creative icons, Prof. Olusoji noted that Ms. Anna-Karin Karlsson’s visit will serve as an eye opener, inspiration and turning point for students of the faculty.
Speaking on behalf of the University Management, the Director of the Office of Advancement, UNILAG, Dr. Mrs Taiwo Ipaye, appreciated Ms. Anna-Karin Karlsson and her team, for choosing to identify with UNILAG on her very first visit to Nigeria.
Dr Ipaye said the visit reinforces UNILAG’s role as a vibrant hub for cultural engagement and international creative exchange. According to her, Ms. Karlsson’s physical presence in UNILAG offers a rare opportunity for students of the faculty to learn firsthand from a global industry leader
Ms. Karlsson’s visit provided a platform for students of the Departments of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, Fine and Applied Arts, as well as Music and Sound Production to give an account of themselves as the next generation of Nigeria’s creative talents. The students thrilled the visibly elated guest, with different electrifying performances that would remain indelible in her memory of her first trip to Nigeria.
Report: Gbenga Gbelee
Photograph: Islamiat Akani
