South African designer Rayana Edwards has launched an innovative project to train unemployed women to make new garments out of recycled saris by incorporating traditional African and Muslim kaftan designs.
The 'Sari for Change' project aims to promote sustainability while stimulating job creation in developing markets.
By building capacity and imparting much-needed creative and business skills, Edwards and her team are playing their own small part in promoting the manufacture and consumption of vibrant and proudly local women's wear.
"Being a Muslim, we subscribe to a certain dress code, which is to dress modestly. Most of our products are produced in this way, yet appeal to many other women," says Edwards.
"For example, the kaftan is worn by countless communities worldwide. Working with the sari, we are also catering for non-Indian women out there who wish to wear them - so why not have an Indian sari with traditional African beading? We are living in a global village, so our clothes should reflect that," she said.
'Sari for Change' is an incubation project, where intern designers, seamstresses and beaders use fabric from donated saris to create exquisite new handmade garments.
Using beadwork, hand embroidery, crochet trim and other techniques, they are encouraged to incorporate traditional African elements into their designs.
The project employs women who are able to use a sewing machine but may lack knowledge of market forces and requirements, and provides them with on-the-job training for several months.
Professional garment makers teach the trainees through master classes, with Edwards imparting entrepreneurial skills.
The women are then encouraged to launch their own businesses closer to where they live, while still receiving mentoring.
Edwards previously worked largely in property development, before embracing her love for fashion and clothing and opening her first high-end ladies' boutique while living in Nairobi in East Africa.
