A talented Master’s student from Newcastle College University Centre has been selected by Chi Onwurah MP to design a Geordie African inspired outfit to be worn at her Damehood ceremony in 2026.

When Chi was named in the King’s Birthday Honours this year, she knew exactly where she wanted to turn for a spectacular and stylish outfit worthy of such a special and regal occasion.

Lamin Gibba, who is studying an MA in Creative and Professional Practice, has been working with Chi Onwurah and a collaborative team of staff and students at Newcastle College for eight months to design and create a bespoke outfit for the event.

Chi attended the launch of Lamin’s fashion brand, Jerry J Clothing, at the Boiler Shop, Newcastle, in June 2024 and was blown away by his “Born to Elevate” fashion collection.

Lamin, from Heaton, is a North East Enterprise Award winner with The Prince’s Trust and graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) Degree in Design and Visual Communications from Newcastle College University Centre earlier this year.

His work, inspired by his Gambian heritage, focuses on merging fashion, culture and storytelling to inspire and elevate creativity. Jerry J Clothing is a high-end streetwear brand co-founded by fashion designer Lamin and his son Jackson.

Based in the UK but inspired by Lamin’s journey from Gambia, his creations incorporate the deep roots of his African heritage into a vision of modern elegance.

With no prior experience in the fashion sector, Lamin secured work at London Fashion Week with rising designer Tolu Coker, and his Born to Elevate launch drew crowds of 200 people, including the High Commissioner for Gambia, Chi Onwurah and former footballer Bruno Pilatos.

The Mandela Building School of Art and Design at Newcastle College offers world-class facilities and inspiring, industry-level spaces to support students through every step of their creative journey and career path.

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 Onwurah MP said: “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.”

Libby Lagun, Head of Art and Design at Newcastle College, said: “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.”

The collaborative team of staff and students included Libby Lagun, tailoress Lynn Purves, who constructed the outfit, and specialist technician Jordan Bagnall.

No date or venue has yet been announced for the Royal ceremony, but it is expected to be held in early 2026.