Smart “Worldcharming” Courage, a celebrated Creative-Artistic Director and Fashion Walk Consultant, has been named a guest speaker and member of the “Change & Impact Maker Class of 2026” at the upcoming TIME 100 Conference & Award.
The event, hosted by 40 Under 40 Nigeria, is scheduled for April 25th, 2026, at the Ballroom Oriental Hotel in Lagos and is themed “TIME IS NOW: CREATE | EXPLORE | IMPACT.”
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This recognition is the latest in a series of accolades for Courage, a transformative figure who is reshaping Nigeria’s beauty and fashion landscape with a unique and disciplined approach. While he is now a powerhouse in the pageant and fashion world, his journey began in a surprisingly different field.
Courage is a graduate of Genetics and Biotechnology from the University of Calabar. His decision to pivot from science to style challenged stereotypes and paved the way for a new kind of creative leadership in the industry.
Courage is the founder of Worldcharming, an organisation dedicated to providing professional catwalk training, fashion styling, and creative direction. He is celebrated for his methodical coaching style, which blends technical precision with a focus on building a powerful mindset. His 2026 manifesto, “Legacy Beyond Crowns,” argues that true presence comes from discipline and preparation, not just confidence, a philosophy he has used to train over 3,000 women across Africa.
His influence extends across high-profile events and campaigns. In 2025, Courage received the prestigious Spirit of Africa Recognition Award for his groundbreaking contributions to talent development and tourism empowerment at the Miss and Mister Tourism Africa International finals, an event he also produced.
As both a creative director and a mentor, Smart “Worldcharming” Courage continues to be a pivotal force, proving that the foundation of style is not just what you wear, but the strength and discipline you build within.
His work is not just about creating beautiful moments on the runway but about building lasting legacies in the Nigerian fashion and beauty industry.
