Talented fashion student dresses future Dame

A talented Master’s student from Newcastle College University Centre has been selected to create a Geordie African-inspired outfit for Dame Chi Onwurah’s investiture ceremony, due to take place in 2026. 

The commission follows Chi Onwurah MP’s appointment in the King’s Birthday Honours and reflects a deliberate decision to work with emerging regional talent.

Led by Lamin Gibba, who is studying for an MA in creative and professional practice, the design has been developed over the past eight months in collaboration with staff and students at Newcastle College. 

Bringing together fashion design, tailoring expertise and technical support, the project will result in a one-off piece for the ceremony.

Lamin, from Heaton, is the co-founder of Jerry J Clothing, a high-end streetwear brand inspired by his Gambian heritage and focused on storytelling through fashion. 

He recently graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) in design and visual communications and is a North East Enterprise Award winner with The Prince’s Trust.

Chi's investiture outfit builds on Lamin’s Born to Elevate collection, which blends African influences with contemporary design and first caught Chi’s attention when she attended the launch of his Jerry J Clothing brand at the Boiler Shop in Newcastle last year.

Lamin said: “I moved from my native Gambia to Newcastle to better my chances in life. 

“I’ve always had an interest in fashion ever since I spent time in my aunt’s fashion and tailoring shop back home.

“Since studying fashion design at Newcastle College University Centre, my interest has only grown, and I launched my brand aimed at ‘elevated people’ who are always aiming higher and striving hard to achieve their personal goals in life.

“That very much reflects my passion and work ethic, and I am always pushing to do more. 

“To be asked to design Chi’s outfit for her ceremony is both an honour and a highlight of my career.

“It’s been a real pleasure to work with Chi and the wider team on this special outfit, and I am really excited to see my work featured at such a high-profile Royal occasion.”

Chi added: “When I attended Lamin’s launch, I was really inspired by the style and creativity of his designs. 

“When I was named in the King’s Birthday Honours, I thought how wonderful it would be if Lamin and the team at Newcastle College could design my outfit for the ceremony.

“I accepted the Damehood on behalf of the city and region I am so proud to represent. 

“And I wanted my journey to be reflected in the design. 

“So, I gave the team a really challenging brief – incorporate my Geordie, Irish and Nigerian background in a timeless and stylish outfit. 

“I am over the moon with the finished piece – it’s truly one in a million.

“It’s great to have worked with Lamin and the whole team at Newcastle College, and I am immensely grateful to them for giving me the outfit of my dreams. 

“It showcases the talent, technical ability and creative skills we have right here in the North East.”

The project has been supported by Newcastle College’s Mandela Building School of Art and Design, which provided facilities and specialist input from Libby Lagun, tailoress Lynn Purves, who constructed the outfit, and specialist technician Jordan Bagnall.

Libby Lagun, head of art and design at Newcastle College, added: “Lamin has exceptional talent and it’s amazing for him and the fashion technicians who collaborated on this special commission to design and construct an outfit for such a wonderful celebratory and high- profile occasion. 

“We’ve thoroughly enjoyed working and collaborating on this together.”

While the date and venue for the ceremony have yet to be confirmed, it is expected to take place in early 2026.

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