MetaSkillz Contest 2025
December 09, 2025
MetaSkillz Contest 2025 - Textile Design Category
General Terms and Conditions
- By participating in the UndaMeta MetaSkillz Contest 2025 (“the Contest”), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions issued by UndaMeta Limited (“the Organiser”).
- The Contest shall run from 20th October 2025 to 15th December 2025. The Call for Entries opens on 20th October 2025 and closes on 20th November 2025 (“the Submission Period”).
- By submitting an entry, you confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements and that the information you have provided is true and accurate.
- The Contest is open only to individuals aged 18 years and above. Employees, contractors, agents, and associates of UndaMeta Limited, as well as their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate.
- Each participant is limited to two (2) entries.
- There are no entry fees or charges for participation in the Contest.
- Prizes shall be awarded as follows:
a) 1st Prize: One Hundred United States Dollars (USD 100) + a 3-metre digital print of the winning design on 100% cotton (Tangawizi Fabric) + optional stitching. b) 2nd Prize: A 3-metre digital print of the winning design on 100% cotton (Tangawizi Fabric) + optional stitching. c) 3rd Prize: A 3-metre digital print of the winning design on 100% cotton (Tangawizi Fabric). d) Public Choice Award: Two (2) additional winners will receive an Honourable Mention and will be featured in the UndaMeta Hall of Fame Gallery for their technically sound and authentic submissions. e) Each of the five (5) winners will have a dedicated feature on the MetaMeta Blog, as well as on UndaMeta’s social media platforms and newsletter. - All five (5) winners will be invited to attend the MetaSkillz Awards Ceremony to be held on 15th December 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya.
- The winning entries shall be selected by a panel of judges appointed by UndaMeta Limited. All decisions by the judges and/or the Organiser regarding any aspect of the Contest are final and binding. No correspondence or appeals shall be entertained.
- All prizes are non-transferable, non-exchangeable, and not redeemable for cash.
- UndaMeta Limited shall make two (2) attempts to contact the winners via the email address provided during submission. If a winner cannot be contacted or fails to respond within a reasonable period, the Organiser reserves the right to take any appropriate action, including selecting an alternative winner. All such decisions shall be final and binding.
- All artworks and surface pattern designs submitted to the Contest may be used by UndaMeta Limited for promotional purposes in print and digital media, including publications, social media, and other marketing materials. Participants’ names, images, and design stories may be published for such promotional purposes.
- By entering the Contest, you warrant that the content submitted is your own original work, that you hold all necessary rights to it, and that it does not infringe any third-party rights.
- Following review and approval by UndaMeta Limited, eligible entries may be included on the UndaMeta website for sale to buyers. Such inclusion shall be governed by the UndaMeta Limited Terms and Conditions relating to the sale of designs and the corresponding royalty structure applicable at the time of inclusion.
- Participants must comply with all local and international copyright laws. You are solely and legally responsible for any costs, damages, fines, fees, charges, or penalties arising from any copyright infringement in relation to work submitted to UndaMeta Limited and the Contest.
- You agree to indemnify and hold harmless UndaMeta Limited, its affiliates, directors, officers, and agents against any loss, damage, liability, claim, or expense (including legal costs) incurred as a result of your breach of these Terms and Conditions, including any intellectual property infringement.
- Designs submitted may be considered for commercial inclusion on the UndaMeta marketplace if they meet the Organiser’s design standards. If shortlisted, participants will be contacted to discuss and agree on applicable terms prior to listing.
- UndaMeta Limited reserves the right to amend, vary, or update these Terms and Conditions at any time. Participants will be notified of such changes. Continued participation in the Contest following such notification shall constitute acceptance of the revised Terms. If you do not agree to the amendments, you may withdraw from the Contest as outlined in Clause 19.
- Withdrawal from the Contest:
If you wish to withdraw, please write to info@undameta.com with the subject line “MetaSkillz Contest 2025 – Withdrawal from Contest.”
Upon receipt of your written request, UndaMeta Limited shall remove your content from the Contest within five (5) working days and shall not use it in any future promotional material. However, any use or publication prior to the receipt of your withdrawal request shall remain unaffected. You shall retain all copyrights to your content at all times. UndaMeta Limited shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from such withdrawal. - The decision of the judges/panel is final and binding on all participants, and no correspondence, appeal, or challenge regarding the results will be entered into or entertained.
- For any enquiries or clarifications regarding the Contest, please contact us with any queries at +254 769 283 120 or info@undameta.com
Open Call: MetaSkillz Contest 2025 - Textile Design Category
Bring your best surface pattern design game. The future of Afrikan fabric is calling.
The Challenge
Reimagine the spirit of your country through the lens of Afrofuturism. Consider your symbols, traditions, colours, and stories — reinterpreted for a visionary, forward-facing world. Then translate that concept into a bold, seamless surface pattern.
Shortlisted contestants will be required to share their mood boards and motif sketches; therefore, participants are encouraged to document their design process.
Submission Requirements
Each entry must include the following:
- One (1) original repeat artwork measuring 150 cm (width) × 100 cm (height), presented as a high-resolution, layered seamless pattern in PDF format.
- A smaller JPEG version (for social media thumbnails) must also be submitted.
- Entries should be submitted via https://undameta.com/sell-your-design/
- If the file exceeds the maximum Product Vendor dashboard media size limit, submissions should be sent through WeTransfer to info@undameta.com.
- The title of the pattern.
- A short written description (maximum 150 words).
- Participants may submit up to two (2) designs.
- Only original, non-plagiarised works will be accepted. No AI-generated content is allowed.
Deadline
All submissions must be received by 9:00 a.m. EAT on 20th November 2025.
Submission link: https://undameta.com/sell-your-design/
Awards and Recognition
Prizes will be awarded to five (5) winners as outlined in the official Terms and Conditions (above). All winners will be featured across UndaMeta’s blog, newsletter, and social media platforms, and will be invited to attend an exclusive Awards Ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, on 15th December 2025.
Judging Criteria
Entries will be evaluated according to the following weighted criteria:
A. Creativity and Originality (30%): Uniqueness of concept, innovative interpretation of the theme, and freshness of approach.
B. Aesthetic Appeal (25%): Visual harmony, balance, and effective use of colour, pattern, and composition.
C. Technical Execution (20%): Quality of the digital file, seamlessness of repeat, clarity of elements, and print readiness.
D. Adherence to Theme (15%): The extent to which the design reflects and interprets the challenge theme.
E. Design Statement (10%): Clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness of the written explanation.
Eligibility
The competition is open exclusively to registered UndaMeta Creators (vendors). Those not yet registered may apply at https://undameta.com/sell-your-design/. Registration approval typically takes 24 – 48 hours.
Announcement of Winners
The winners will be announced on Monday, 15 December 2025, via a virtual awards ceremony.
On Tuesday, 16 December 2025, all winners will be featured in the Hall of Fame and showcased across UndaMeta’s social media platforms.
MetaSkillz Contest 2025 - Fashion Accoutrements Category
General Terms and Conditions
- By participating in the UndaMeta MetaSkillz Contest 2025 – Fashion Accoutrements Category (“the Contest”), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions issued by UndaMeta Limited (“the Organiser”).
- The Contest shall run from 20th October 2025 to 15th December 2025. The Call for Entries opens on 20th October 2025 and closes on 20th November 2025 (“the Submission Period”).
- By submitting an entry, you confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements and that the information provided is true and accurate.
- The Contest is open only to individuals aged 18 years and above. Designs should be inspired by the African continent, though participants need not be of African descent. Employees, contractors, agents, and associates of UndaMeta Limited, as well as their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate.
- Each participant may submit only one (1) entry. There are no entry fees or charges for participation.
- Prizes shall be awarded as follows: a)1st Prize: One Hundred United States Dollars (USD 100) + winning 3D cast in bronze b) 2nd Prize: Winning 3D cast in bronze c)3rd Prize: Winning design 3D modelled. d)The three (3) winners will be featured in the UndaMeta Hall of Fame Gallery for their technically sound and authentic submissions. e) Each of the three (3) winners will have a dedicated feature on the MetaMeta Blog, as well as on UndaMeta’s social media platforms and newsletter.
- All winners will be invited to attend the MetaSkillz Awards Ceremony on 15th December 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya.
- Judging and Selection: Winning entries shall be selected by a panel of judges appointed by the Organiser. All decisions by the judges and/or the Organiser regarding any aspect of the Contest are final and binding. No correspondence or appeal shall be entertained.
- Prize Conditions: All prizes are non-transferable, non-exchangeable, and not redeemable for cash. The Organiser shall make two (2) attempts to contact each winner via the email address provided. If a winner fails to respond within a reasonable period, the Organiser reserves the right to select an alternate winner.
- Intellectual Property and Publicity: All intellectual property rights remain with the designer. By entering, participants grant UndaMeta Limited a non-exclusive licence to display and promote their submitted works on UndaMeta’s platforms and in contest-related publicity, with full credit to the creator. Participants’ names, images, and design narratives may be used in print and digital media, including undameta.com, the MetaMeta Blog, and social channels.
- By entering, you warrant that the submitted content is your original work, that you own all rights to it, and that it does not infringe on any third-party rights.
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless UndaMeta Limited, its affiliates, directors, and agents from any claims, damages, or expenses (including legal costs) arising from any breach of these Terms. - Commercial Consideration: elected designs may be considered for commercial inclusion on the UndaMeta marketplace if they meet the Organiser’s design standards. Shortlisted participants will be contacted to discuss and agree on applicable terms prior to listing.
- Amendments and Withdrawal: UndaMeta Limited reserves the right to amend or update these Terms at any time. Participants will be notified of such changes. Continued participation constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.
- If you wish to withdraw, please email info@undameta.com with the subject line “MetaSkillz Contest 2025 – Withdrawal from Contest.” Upon receipt, your entry will be removed from all future promotional use within five (5) working days. Any prior use shall remain unaffected.
- Enquiries: For any questions or clarifications regarding the Contest, contact info@undameta.com or call +254 769 283 120.
Open Call: MetaSkillz Contest 2025 - Fashion Accoutrements Category
The Challenge
This category celebrates the artistry and innovation behind small but powerful details that complete a look — the buttons, brooches, clasps, cufflinks, medallions, and buckles that define a designer’s visual language.
This new category, introduced through the support of our sponsor, honours designers who blend creativity with precision craftsmanship through 3D design, modeling, and digital fabrication tools.
Eligibility
This category is open to:
Accessory designers
Jewelry designers
Apparel or fashion designers (with accessory experience)
Industrial and product designers
Trim and embellishment designers
Design students or professionals working in 3D, CAD, or sculptural design fields
Entrants must be 18 years or older. Designs should be inspired by the African continent, though participants need not be of African descent.
Each participant is limited to one (1) entry.
Theme
The 2025 theme is “Afrofuturism & Adornment” — a celebration of African heritage reimagined through futuristic design. It invites creators to blend tradition with technology, crafting forms that embody innovation, identity, and the spirit of a forward-looking Africa. Designers are encouraged to interpret the theme through form, material, and symbolism, drawing from Africa’s heritage of ornamentation, adornment, and functional beauty.
Submission Guidelines
Design Scope
Entries must fall under small fashion accoutrements, such as:
Buttons, clasps, cufflinks
Brooches, medallions, lockets, pendants, jewelry pieces
Belt buckles or similar trim hardware
Large items such as handbags, shoes, or hats will not be accepted in this category.
Originality
All entries must be original works of the entrant. Collaborative submissions are permitted but must list all contributors. Designs that infringe on third-party intellectual property or existing designs will be disqualified.
Submission & Technical Requirements
Designs should be created using 3D modelling or CAD tools suitable for precision fabrication, rendering, or 3D printing. Use any of the following 3D model file formats: .STL, .OBJ, .STEP, or .3MF.
For models submitted for review in eDrawings (recommended), use file extensions .DXF, .DWG, or .STL.
Each entry must include a flat image in the round — showing five angles (front, back, top, side, and perspective) — to clearly illustrate the design’s form, proportions, and detailing.
| Software | Description | Common Export Formats |
| Rhino (Rhinoceros 3D) | Ideal for jewelry, hardware, and product design | .3DM, .STL, .OBJ, .STEP |
| MatrixGold / RhinoGold | Specialized jewelry and embellishment modeling | .3DM, .STL |
| Blender | Open-source, suitable for artistic or conceptual modeling | .BLEND, .STL, .OBJ, .FBX |
| Fusion 360 | Combines CAD, CAM, and rendering — excellent for functional parts | .F3D, .STEP, .STL, .3MF |
| Maya | Used for visual effects and realistic presentation renders | .OBJ, .STL, .FBX |
| KeyShot | Industry-standard for high-quality 3D rendering and lighting visualisation | .BIP, .KSP, .JPG, .PNG, .TIFF, .MP4, .MOV |
| eDrawings by SolidWorks (Dassault Systèmes) | Designed for engineering, product design, and 3D review. Engineering-grade accuracy for buckles, clasps, and mechanical fittings. We recommend using the following 3D model viewer: https://www.edrawingsviewer.com/. This platform will be used to review all submissions. Winners and runner-up entrants will then be required to provide a functional model suitable for 3D printing. | .DXF, .DWG, .STL |
Output Format
Mandatory Uploads
Each submission must include:
3D Model File – one of the following formats: .STL, .OBJ, .STEP, .EDDX or .3MF. For models submitted for review in eDrawings use file extensions .DXF, .DWG, or .STL
Rendered Images – .JPG or .PNG (minimum 1200px resolution)
Design Concept Sheet (optional) – .PDF describing inspiration, materials, and intended use
Short Description (max 200 words) – including the name of the design and a brief backstory
Optional (for advanced submissions)
Animation/turntable render: .MP4 or .MOV (≤ 30 seconds)
Material specification sheet or color variants
Deadline
All submissions must be received by 9:00 a.m. EAT on 20th November 2025.
Submission link: https://forms.gle/g6UUZ5me1WHudqPSA
Awards and Recognition
Prizes will be awarded to three (3) winners as outlined in the official Terms and Conditions (above). All winners will be featured across UndaMeta’s blog, newsletter, and social media platforms, and will be invited to attend an exclusive Awards Ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, on 15th December 2025.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be judged by a panel of industry experts based on the following:
A. Creativity & Originality (30%): The uniqueness of the concept, form, and aesthetic approach in interpreting African-inspired adornment through 3D design.
B. Technical Execution & Precision (25%): The quality of modelling, detailing, and craftsmanship achieved through digital tools, reflecting accuracy and professional finish.
C. Relevance to Theme (20%): How effectively the design embodies Afrofuturism & Adornment, blending tradition with innovation and futuristic design thinking.
D. Cultural Narrative / Inspiration Source (15%): The depth of storytelling or symbolism drawn from African culture, heritage, or craft traditions.
E. Presentation & Manufacturability (10%): The clarity of presentation, functionality, and potential for real-world fabrication or production.
Prizes & Recognition
1st Prize: USD 100 + winning 3D cast in bronze
2nd Prize: Winning 3D cast in bronze
3rd Prize: Winning design 3D modelled
All winners gain placement in the UndaMeta Hall of Fame 2025 and a feature on UndaMeta’s digital platforms. Shortlisted entries will appear in an online gallery celebrating African innovation in 3D accessory design.
Sponsorship
Prizes for the Fashion Accoutrements category are proudly sponsored by Mr. Phillip Harrison, a renowned sculptor, artist blacksmith, designer, and founder of STEAM Extreme FFA. STEAM Extreme FFA is an educational initiative that equips young people with hands-on skills in metal casting, fabrication, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Maths), bridging creative design with practical innovation.
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