Papa Oppong, the celebrated Ghanaian designer renowned for his visionary approach to fashion and art, has officially joined the Nike design team. This is another influential achievement to his enormous worth of experience. His transition to one of the world’s most iconic sportswear brands, brings with him a fresh perspective deeply rooted in African culture and aesthetics.
Papa Oppong’s journey to Nike was anything but conventional. Over the years, his work has caught the eye of global media giants like CNN and Forbes, the latter naming him one of 15 young Africans reshaping the continent’s image.
From being celebrated at the 2016 Fest Africa USA festival to being honoured at the 2017 PANAFEST Youth Festival, Oppong has long been recognized as a powerful creative force. Now, he’s set to bring that energy to one of the world’s most iconic brands.
In his Instagram announcement, Papa Oppong admitted he struggled to find words to express his excitement: “Your boy will be joining the design team at @nike!!!” he wrote. Reflecting on Nike’s influence throughout his life, he shared, “The swoosh was always there, from my brother’s soccer balls to the football jerseys in my neighbourhood. To join this brand feels surreal.”
But Oppong’s message was a call to African creatives everywhere. “What matters most is how far you’re willing to dream,” he said. He emphasized that his story is a testament to breaking barriers, no matter one’s background. He hopes his journey inspires young Africans who aspire to reach similar heights, turning ambition into reality.
Expressing gratitude to the Nike team, Oppong also gave a bittersweet farewell to New York City, the city that helped sharpen his vision. “You taught me patience, drive, and the value of hard work,” he wrote, before closing with heartfelt thanks to the Nike colleagues who saw his potential.
Oppong’s experience as he embarks on this new chapter proves that African designers are just getting started and that the world is paying attention.
