Gemma’s story is inspiring as it is influential. The 2Chic Events business and organisation began as a family-run business based in Leeds, which, despite being in an often overlooked region, has reached many through platforming culture.

Gemma Hall is the Founder and Events Director of 2Chic Events and the Curator of the Culture Fashion Show UK from Leeds.

“We’re intentional about curating a show that reflects real diversity, not just in ethnicity, but in age, size, culture, and lived experience. The women in our creative team are balancing motherhood, careers, and cultural advocacy,” says Gemma.

“The most rewarding part Is witnessing a transformation. From watching a young woman walk a runway for the first time and leave with newfound confidence to hearing an elder in the audience say, “Thank you for telling our story”, those moments are everything.”

This year’s show spotlights diasporic pride through a showcase of ‘Culture After Dark’, which is an exclusive post-show experience celebrating music, art, and nightlife rooted in culture. 

“Our motivation is simple but powerful: to create space. Space for truth-telling, for bold celebration, for culture to lead without compromise. Each event is rooted in care and community, building bridges across generations, geographies, and identities.

“We want people to leave feeling seen, inspired, and proud. For those involved, whether modelling for the first time, debuting their collection, or working behind the scenes, it’s about real opportunity, representation, and growth.”

Gemma has had the privilege of hosting influential figures in the fashion industry, giving a platform for the expansive creativity of diverse designers. 

The upcoming exclusive event on Saturday, 28th June, seeks to encapsulate the intricacies and hard work of designers that make their craft so distinct.

“At the heart of our work is the mission to honour culture, not in a performative way, but as a core creative pillar. We amplify diasporic heritage, from the sounds of Afro-Caribbean rhythms to textiles rooted in West African traditions to intergenerational stories shared on stage and runway. 

“Our commitment to inclusion goes beyond box-ticking; it’s lived, intentional, and ever-evolving,” says Gemma. 
The show hosts talents from Nigeria and Lagos like ‘Eli the Great’, who’s renowned for a fusion of culture-inspired art and contemporary style alongside a Windrush showcase.

“One of the most meaningful events we’re producing this year is Merlina Pearl: A Windrush Journey – The Musical. Written and directed by Jannette Barrett, the story follows Merlina, a remarkable woman who migrated to Britain in 1948 with hope and ambition, only to face rejection, racism, and systemic barriers.

“Told through music and movement, it’s a powerful tribute to the strength and silence of Caribbean women in the UK’s post-war history.”

“What makes Merlina Pearl special is that it opens the door to conversations many have struggled to start. It offers a powerful opportunity to develop cultural understanding,” says Gemma.

Gemma’s events not only shed light on fashion embedded in culture but also go as far as celebrating Black creatives across several industries. 

“Our vision is to grow the Culture Fashion Show into a leading showcase for Northern talent while creating an inclusive and affirming space that reflects our people, cultures, and identities with pride,” says Gemma.

“We strive to offer real opportunities, particularly for those entering creative industries, to be mentored, celebrated, and seen. Our events bring together artists, designers, producers, stylists, models, musicians, and more, each offering a piece of their identity to shape the bigger picture.”

The proceeds from the show will go toward fundraising for the Black Music Festival, ensuring its future as a free, community-led celebration of Black culture. 

People supporting the Culture Fashion Show, “it is not only investing in creativity and representation but also investing in cultural legacy and grassroots empowerment,” says Gemma.

“We are proud to be growing something real, and we don’t want to grow alone. As we expand, we aim to collaborate with organisations, cultural leaders, businesses, and creative influencers who share our belief that our generation can reshape how culture is experienced and valued. 

“We are building with purpose, and we invite like-minded people to build with us,” says Gemma.

To find out more about the impact of these cultural events visit 2chic Events  site. 

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