Jordan Brand‘s “District 23” is elevating Paris‘ diverse 18th arrondissement into a global epicenter for sport and culture this summer. The six-week immersive experience, housed in the historic former Tati Barbès department store, is a love letter to the diasporic youth who shape basketball’s international influence.
Creative Director Youssouf Fofana, founder of fashion brand Maison Château Rouge, curated the “District 23” curriculum to empower the next generation. “My hope was that by amplifying the 18th arrondissement to the world, we could elevate the community members’ collective pursuit to change the narrative,” says Fofana, who grew up surrounded by Paris’ African diaspora.
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In partnership with Foot Locker, District 23 provides Parisian youth access to basketball courts and outdoor spaces, using sport as a gateway to creative skills. Community members can participate in tournaments and open play at key locations like Paris Basket 18 women’s club and Square Leon park.
The “Diaspora Renaissance” exhibition, co-curated by Fofana and Jordan Brand’s Easy Otabor, showcases contemporary works from 23 global artists exploring diasporic communities. Six artists offer their interpretations of the iconic Air Jordan 1 through this cultural lens.
The District 23 also celebrates the 18th arrondissement’s gastronomy, highlighting traditional recipes and emerging chefs. Sneaker enthusiasts can visit the region’s first Foot Locker x Jordan store nearby.
“It’s hard to imagine what’s possible for yourself without having the knowledge and references to look back to,” adds Fofana. “District 23 is the memento we want to leave behind for youth from the 18th arrondissement to always reference as they achieve all that they dream.“
