The BoF Podcast | Redefining “Made in Africa”
In recent years, the global fashion industry has experienced a significant shift, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices. As the conversation around these topics gains momentum, African brands are stepping into the limelight, showcasing their unique blend of creativity and cultural heritage. At the BoF CROSSROADS 2025 event, a panel composed of influential figures—Maryse Mbonyumutwa of Pink Mango, Laduma Ngxokolo of MaXhosa Africa, and Reni Folawiyo of Alara—joined writer Rozan Ahmed to discuss the transformative journey of African fashion and its quest to redefine what it means to be “Made in Africa.”
The discussion highlighted the operational challenges that African brands face, from supply chain issues to access to funding and infrastructure. Despite these hurdles, the panelists illustrated how innovative solutions and a commitment to sustainability are driving the industry forward. The conversation begins with an acknowledgment of the rich cultural tapestry that African nations bring to the global fashion scene. Each brand represented on the panel embodies a unique narrative that is not only visually stunning but also steeped in tradition and meaning.
Maryse Mbonyumutwa, the founder of Pink Mango, emphasized the importance of storytelling in fashion. “Our garments are not just about aesthetics; they tell the stories of our heritage,” she stated. Pink Mango is a brand that has successfully integrated traditional African craftsmanship with contemporary design, allowing artisans to maintain their cultural practices while reaching a global market. By prioritizing ethical production methods and fair trade practices, Mbonyumutwa is not only preserving tradition but also empowering communities.
Laduma Ngxokolo of MaXhosa Africa echoed these sentiments, discussing how his brand is rooted in the Xhosa culture of South Africa. Ngxokolo has gained international recognition for his knitwear designs that feature bold patterns and vibrant colors, inspired by traditional Xhosa beadwork. He shared the challenges of sourcing materials locally and the impact of global supply chain disruptions. However, his commitment to local production has fostered job creation and skills development within the community. “By supporting local artisans, we are investing in the future of African fashion,” he remarked.
Reni Folawiyo, founder of Alara, brought a different perspective to the conversation, focusing on the retail aspect of African fashion. Alara serves as a luxury retail space that showcases a curated selection of African designers. Folawiyo addressed the misconceptions surrounding African fashion, particularly the idea that it is not suited for the luxury market. “African creativity is on par with global standards, and we must challenge the narrative that our work is inferior,” she asserted. By providing a platform for African designers, Alara is changing perceptions and elevating the status of “Made in Africa” products.
The panelists also discussed the importance of sustainability in their respective brands. In an era where consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases, African brands are leading by example. By utilizing sustainable materials and ethical production processes, they are not only appealing to conscious consumers but also setting a precedent for the industry at large. “Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a necessity,” Folawiyo emphasized, reinforcing the idea that the future of fashion lies in responsible practices.
Moreover, the conversation touched on the role of technology in overcoming operational challenges. As the fashion industry adapts to a digital landscape, African brands are leveraging e-commerce and social media to reach a wider audience. This shift not only enhances visibility but also allows brands to tell their stories more effectively. For instance, Ngxokolo mentioned how social media has been a powerful tool in promoting MaXhosa Africa’s unique designs and heritage, allowing for direct engagement with consumers around the world.
However, the journey is not without its obstacles. Access to funding remains a significant barrier for many African designers. The panelists discussed the need for financial support and investment in the industry to foster growth and innovation. Initiatives aimed at providing grants, mentorship, and resources for emerging designers can play a crucial role in empowering the next generation of African fashion leaders.
As the conversation came to a close, it was clear that African brands are at the forefront of a movement that is redefining the fashion landscape. Through a combination of cultural authenticity, sustainable practices, and modern technology, they are not only overcoming operational challenges but also changing the narrative around “Made in Africa.” The panelists left the audience with a powerful message: the future of fashion is not just about clothing; it is about the stories we tell, the communities we uplift, and the sustainable practices we adopt.
In conclusion, the discussion at BoF CROSSROADS 2025 highlighted that African fashion is not merely a trend but a vibrant and essential component of the global fashion industry. As brands like Pink Mango, MaXhosa Africa, and Alara continue to break barriers and redefine excellence, they pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future in fashion.
sustainability, African fashion, BoF Podcast, Made in Africa, fashion industry