People grow up with that thought that trendy, stylish clothes come from Europe. That Paris is a birthplace of good brands. Not that this is not true, but today fashion is expanding a lot, and coming even from regions we can't even imagine.
Fashion has changed the atmosphere of a slum in Kibera, Kenya, which is considered the largest in the world – it has more than 2,5 million inhabitants. This is because projects involving the community are redefining the reality of the place. Citizen journalism projects, carried out by the residents themselves, and a haute couture assembly line organized by the NGO Wakuu brought them opportunities.
What is done?
With the talent of Kenyan seamstresses, pieces are produced that mix Western style and African prints. Everything is produced by the NGO Wakuu. To give you an idea, the clothes are even present in European fashion shows, such as the African Fashion Week in Amsterdam, in the Netherlands. Wakuu also sells the parts on the global market.
Valuing the workforce
Projects like these are great as they help provide opportunities for Kenyan women and even allow them to have a job. This initiative is also welcomed by fashion scouts from other countries, who are seeing that it is not just European countries that produce fashion trends. Isn't it really great?
Other projects
We have already written here on the site about other projects similar to this one. Check out the interview with one of Hevp's partners: Meet Hevp, a t-shirt brand that is helping people.
It's very good when we open our eyes to other places and help them to have a job and also value the workforce without exploring. It is to make these people feel belonging and important. Congratulations to all involved!
Written by Angélica Fabiane Weise from the Eu Sem Fronteiras team
