2024 Designer Information
About EFWA 2024 designers
The seasoned designers showcased at Eco Fashion Week Africa shows a dedication that goes beyond personal gain; they stand as true advocates for sustainability. These visionaries have committed to a week-long initiative focused on reducing textile waste, setting a benchmark that poses a challenge for some eco-conscious brands that traditionally aim their efforts at the production of new runway collections.
While other designers have expressed zero interest in nurturing upcoming designers and have turned down the event for fear of being placed with upcoming designers, these few brands commitment to nurturing new talent is evident as they share the runway with student designers, creating opportunities for inspiration and growth which is a big part of sustainability in the fashion industry.
For buyers interested in authentic eco-conscious brands, we suggest supporting those who exhibit a genuine commitment to greater values over self-interest. Such brands have opened the runway to five student designers and emerging upcycle creators, who typically lack the opportunity to participate in high-fashion events, therefore providing the visibility and mentorship crucial for their success.
Moreover, some brands have extended further support by offering studio placements to the top two student designers, equipping them with indispensable experiences. Brands like Off Cut and Afrowema are the biggest supporters of Eco Fashion Week Africa, offering a three-month apprenticeship to aspiring designers, which will facilitate hands-on learning and experience.
Off Cut Kenya
Upcycled – Unique – Unisex- Made in Kenya
" From Trash to Treasure". Join us on our journey as we turn discarded materials into something new, proving that fashion can be both timeless and kind to the planet" - Off Cut Kenya.
Afrowema
Save the Planet with Style
AfroWema is an ethical and sustainable fashion social brand born in Kibera (Kenya), the largest slum in Africa. We contribute to the empowerment of artisans in this community and create new employment opportunities using new and used local materials. We create clothing and accessories that not only reduces the impact on the environment but is also mindful of the people who work with our brand. We produce fashion that is ethically made and environmentally friendly.
Mariam Couture
Zero Waste Production
An integral part of our design philosophy is zero-waste production, crafting timeless, desirable garments that are made to last. We repurpose leftover materials and deadstock fabrics into patchwork, breathing new life into unused textiles and preventing waste. This sustainable approach allows us to regularly refresh our collections, offering fashion-conscious customers truly unique pieces.
We are a leading brand in ethical fashion in Kenya that empowers both men and women through sustainable, high-quality designs. We are deeply committed to quality and equality, both in the products we create and in the livelihoods we support.
Competing Student designers
Ashley Njeri
Hello, I'm a fashion design student in Kenya. I'm a Christian, and this significantly influences my work. The collection I'm showcasing at Eco Fashion Week is a testament to the eternal nature of the soul and the impermanence of earthly existence. Inspired by the biblical perspective of life as a temporary journey and death as a gateway to eternal glory, the collection explores the profound themes of life, death, and the afterlife.
Contact: +254 748 384388
Milka Njoki
My collection is inspired by the day to day activities of a person.Each and every person has a different routine and that's what results to the different styles and outfit wears.My garments are inspired by an independent boss woman who is not afraid to show off her style. My number is +254 716 029181 Please contact me for collaborations and any work opportunity you have for me.
Simply Milly
I am a Sustainable Fashion Designer presenting a collection named URBAN LINES. This is an upcycled collection that redefines city style with a blend of sophistication and rugged charm. Crafted from reclaimed pinstripe men's blazers and denim pant, each piece in the collection tells a story of revival and conscious design. Designed for those who value individuality and sustainability, Urban Lines brings together the sharpness of pinstripes with the timeless edge of denim, creating a unique fusion that's as bold as it is eco-friendly. Step into a collection where classic meets contemporary, and style meets purpose. Contact: +254 790 156449
HOUSE OF SON’S
Since childhood, I have always had a strong desire to pursue a career in fashion, and I feel blessed that God has opened the way for me. I am now living my dream. I am a Kenyan from Turkana County, with a deep passion for fashion, particularly in illustration, pattern, and drafting. Currently, I am studying at Delight Africa College of Fashion and Design. This path is advancing my career, and I take great pride in everything I am learning. I pray for God's continual guidance. My goal in fashion is to excel and to share innovative ideas with my community, making a positive impact while glorifying God. I strive not to be the best, but to bring something unique to the fashion industry—something that authentically reflects the lifestyle of people worldwide and seeks to make a difference. In my fashion career, I aim to make my parents proud and to bless their lives. I am dedicated to being a role model for young people globally. I am immensely proud of my accomplishments, and they bring me joy every day. I named my brand HOUSE OF SON’S in honor of my upbringing with my spiritual brother. We were taught to care for one another, to express love, and to ensure each other's well-being. Raised in a Christian home, our faith has been a guiding force in our lives, helping us to live authentically and follow God's will. My father often called me "son," especially when I strayed or when any of us were at fault, to guide us back onto the right path. This is the inspiration behind the brand's name—it serves as a constant reminder to stay true to what is right. HOUSE OF SON’S embodies this philosophy. Contact: +254 794 867253
Dynamite Hooks
A forward-thinking sustainable fashion line founded by Triza, a designer with a passion for minimizing textile waste through her exceptional crochet skills. The brand was born out of her experiences with thrifting, where she noticed a troubling trend: an increasing volume of knitted and crochet pieces were being discarded, contributing to textile waste and the growing environmental strain of fast fashion. Recognizing both the value and beauty in these unwanted pieces, Triza saw an opportunity to reshape the conversation around crochet wear in the sustainable fashion space. At Dynamite Hooks, Triza’s mission is clear: to craft new, stylish crochet pieces by upcycling yarn from pre-loved or discarded clothing. Her designs focus on simplicity and timelessness, celebrating the artistry of crochet while promoting the concept of reusability. By repurposing yarn instead of using new materials, she ensures that each item from Dynamite Hooks is not only beautiful and unique but also environmentally responsible. Contact: +254 793 508844
Cadonie Omosa Ochwangi
I am the founder and designer behind Cadonie Couture.This brand is rooted in luxury and sustainability, specializing in haute couture and avant-garde designs made from upcycled wedding gowns, which is our niche. The inspiration for my work stems from a deep commitment to reducing fashion waste and promoting environmental responsibility. By breathing new life into old wedding gowns, we not only create unique, high-quality garments, but we also reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion. Contact: +254115162141
emerging designers
1. Dynamite Hooks
A passion for minimising textile waste through exceptional crochet skills.
Dynamite Hooks is a forward-thinking sustainable fashion line founded by Triza, a designer with a passion for minimizing textile waste through her exceptional crochet skills. The brand was born out of her experiences with thrifting, where she noticed a troubling trend: an increasing volume of knitted and crochet pieces were being discarded, contributing to textile waste and the growing environmental strain of fast fashion. Recognizing both the value and beauty in these unwanted pieces, Triza saw an opportunity to reshape the conversation around crochet wear in the sustainable fashion space. At Dynamite Hooks, Triza’s mission is clear: to craft new, stylish crochet pieces by upcycling yarn from pre-loved or discarded clothing. Her designs focus on simplicity and timelessness, celebrating the artistry of crochet while promoting the concept of reusability. By repurposing yarn instead of using new materials, she ensures that each item from Dynamite Hooks is not only beautiful and unique but also environmentally responsible.
Mabatini
At Mabatini we mainly for us on creating one-off pieces as we saw it was a way to reduce the over consumption of cloths that will go out of fashion or style or even over supply and find themselves on our land mines
Am William kitheka the creative designer at Mabatini studio passionate about sustainability and slow fashion , as a person that grew up in an informal area that’s surrounded by the industrial area and seeing first hand the effects of pollution from textile west that blocked the rivers and drainage coursing floods leading to deaths and the spread of communicable disease.
At Mabatini we mainly for us on creating one-off pieces as we saw it was a way to reduce the over consumption of cloths that will go out of fashion or style or even over supply and find themselves on our land mines , so we make pieces that are time less , gender less and free size to reduce the gap of exclusion from fashion
3.I would love to show the world why upcycling and slow fashion is a solution to end textile pollution.
Belowcloud97
I create everyday, gender-neutral pieces that challenge traditional fashion norms and promote a more sustainable wardrobe. Each piece is crafted to celebrate the stories and wear of the materials, embodying style that’s both inclusive and environmentally responsible.
I’m especially excited for Eco Fashion Week Africa’s “No New Clothes” theme, which perfectly captures the heart of my work. This theme underscores the importance of rethinking fashion’s impact and embracing sustainable practices. I look forward to connecting with other creatives dedicated to making fashion both innovative and eco-conscious, while sharing the vision of transforming existing materials into fresh, wearable art.
Yarnlychic
Creating elegant crotchet garments. Our brand is built on a foundation of creativity and sustainability. Our brand story is woven with threads of inspiration, passion, and dedication to the art of crotchet.
Founded by Cherrylyn Chepkoech Terer , Yarnlychic was born out of a deep love for crotchet fashion and a desire to share its beauty with the world.
At Yarnlychic, our story begins with a passion for creativity, craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Founded by Cherrylyn Terer, the brand was born out of a deep love for crotchet and knitwear fashion and a desire to share that Passion with the world.
Our mission is to provide elegant and sophisticated knitwear that combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style. By offering good quality, intricately designed crotchet pieces, we aim to become a sought after brand known for its attention and timeless appeal.
The inspiration behind Yarnlychic traces back to Cherrylyn’s childhood watching her grandmother expertly crotchet intricate patterns and transform simple yarn into beautiful patterns and garments. These cherished moments instilled in her a profound appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of crotchet, igniting a lifelong passion for the craft.
Driven by the commitment to quality and authenticity, Yarnlychic embraces the tradition of handmade craftsmanship and honoring the rich heritage of crochet and knitwear traditions. We are committed to progressively use ethically sourced materials and environmentally responsible practices ensuring that our garments not only look good but also feel good to wear.
Behind every Yarnlychic design is a talented artisan and designer who brings the vision to life. From selecting the finest yarns to creating intricate patterns and meticulously crafting each garment by hand, she pours her passion and expertise into every stitch.
We invite you to join us in this journey as we celebrate the art of crotchet and knitwear fashion and empower people to embrace their unique style with confidence and grace.
Welcome to Yarnlychic where tradition meets modernity, and every stitch tells a story of timeless elegance and sophistication.