African Apparel is a business venture with a lot of heart and is shaped from a willingness to supporting local African businesses. Creators Ryan Findley and brothers Ryan and Andy Holdeman sell t-shirts and sweaters made from cotton grown in Malawi and then sewn in Cape Town. The company developed from the trios’ desire to raise awareness for the many issues facing the country, while creating something that would assist in Africa’s pursuit of self-sufficiency. The proceeds raised from the apparel are awarded back to local community efforts.
Take a look at all of the African Apparel designs, and check out the video to get a better sense of the passion behind this not for profit company.
Fair Trade Tees
African Apparel Founders are on a Mission to Rebuild a Continent
Trend Themes
1. Social Entrepreneurship - African Apparel's mission-driven business model sets an example for socially conscious entrepreneurs looking to make an impact on local communities.
2. Sustainable Fashion - African Apparel's focus on using locally grown cotton and ethical manufacturing practices highlights the growing trend of sustainable fashion in the industry.
3. Community-driven Brands - African Apparel's commitment to giving back to local communities is part of a larger trend of consumers seeking brands that prioritize community impact over profits.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - African Apparel's sustainable and ethical approach to fashion production serves as a disruptive innovation opportunity for the industry to move towards more socially responsible practices.
2. Agriculture - African Apparel's use of locally grown cotton highlights the potential for the agriculture industry to support sustainable and ethical supply chains for fashion production.
3. Non-profit - African Apparel's not-for-profit business model serves as an innovative approach for nonprofit organizations to generate revenue and support community-driven initiatives.