The BoF Podcast | Redefining “Made in Africa”
In recent years, the narrative surrounding African fashion has shifted dramatically. The concept of “Made in Africa” is no longer simply a label; it is a badge of honor that signifies creativity, sustainability, and a commitment to local craftsmanship. At the forefront of this movement are visionary leaders like Maryse Mbonyumutwa, Laduma Ngxokolo, and Reni Folawiyo, who joined writer Rozan Ahmed at the BoF CROSSROADS 2025 to discuss the challenges and triumphs of African brands in the global fashion landscape.
Maryse Mbonyumutwa, the founder of Pink Mango, has been a pioneering force in promoting sustainable practices within the African fashion industry. Her brand emphasizes the importance of using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, which not only reduces the environmental impact but also supports local artisans. By prioritizing sustainability, Pink Mango offers a unique selling proposition in a market increasingly concerned with ethical consumption. “Sustainability is a necessity, not a trend,” Mbonyumutwa remarked, emphasizing the role of African brands in leading a global movement towards responsible fashion.
Meanwhile, Laduma Ngxokolo, the creative mind behind MaXhosa Africa, has been instrumental in showcasing African heritage through contemporary knitwear. His designs, inspired by Xhosa culture, have captured attention not just locally, but on international runways. Ngxokolo discussed the operational challenges faced by brands trying to maintain authenticity while scaling up production. “It’s about finding a balance,” he explained. “We need to preserve our cultural identity while also being competitive on a global stage.” This balance is crucial, as consumers increasingly seek brands that reflect their values, including a connection to cultural heritage.
Reni Folawiyo, the founder of Alara, brings a different perspective to the conversation. Her luxury concept store in Lagos serves as a platform for African designers, offering a curated selection of fashion and lifestyle products that celebrate the continent’s creativity. Folawiyo highlighted the importance of collaboration among African brands to overcome operational hurdles. “Together, we can create a strong network that supports each other,” she mentioned. This collaborative spirit is essential for fostering innovation and resilience within the industry.
The panel discussion at BoF CROSSROADS 2025 highlighted several key operational challenges facing African fashion brands. Access to funding remains a significant barrier, as many entrepreneurs struggle to secure investments that would allow them to scale their businesses. Additionally, the logistics of sourcing materials and distributing products can be complex, particularly in regions where infrastructure is lacking. Despite these hurdles, the spirit of innovation is alive and well, and many brands are finding creative solutions to these challenges.
One example of this innovation is the growing trend of utilizing digital platforms to reach a global audience. Many African designers are leveraging e-commerce to bypass traditional retail constraints, enabling them to showcase their work to consumers around the world. This shift not only opens new markets but also allows brands to tell their unique stories directly to their audience. As Folawiyo noted, “Social media has given us a voice we didn’t have before.” Online engagement has become a vital tool in building brand awareness and fostering a community around African fashion.
Moreover, the conversation around sustainability continues to gain traction. African brands are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, from using organic fabrics to implementing zero-waste production methods. This commitment to sustainability is not only beneficial for the environment but also resonates with consumers who are more conscious of their purchasing choices. As Mbonyumutwa pointed out, “Consumers are looking for transparency, and they want to know where their products come from.”
In summary, the panelists at BoF CROSSROADS 2025 provided valuable insights into the transformative power of African fashion. Brands like Pink Mango, MaXhosa Africa, and Alara are redefining what it means to be “Made in Africa” by overcoming operational challenges and embracing creativity and sustainability. Their stories are an inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs, highlighting the potential for African brands to make a significant impact on the global fashion stage.
As the industry continues to evolve, the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability will only grow. The future of African fashion is bright, and with leaders like Mbonyumutwa, Ngxokolo, and Folawiyo at the helm, it is poised to redefine itself as a source of inspiration for the entire fashion world.
sustainability fashion Africa, African brands, global fashion, entrepreneurship, cultural heritage