Ngoni Chikwenengere is the founder of London-based womenswear label, We Are Kin. Her past experiences and fashion conscious approach inspired her vision to create a body inclusive and sustainable brand, something that she felt was missing from the market.
Born in Zimbabwe, Ngoni fell in love with fashion as soon as she set eyes on the beautiful designs that were featured on the fashion TV during her childhood, as well as being influenced by her mothers personal style.
This early mesmerisation inspired her to study a Fashion Diploma and then a BA in Fashion Design at the University of Northampton. In her final year, Ngoni was selected to showcase her debut collection at Graduate Fashion Week in London.
In this episode, we talk about how Ngoni’s mindset towards the fashion industry changed after seeing the destructive damage it was causing.
Her mantra “people and planet over profit” is a key highlight of our discussion, focusing on using sustainable and ethical methods in the design and manufacturing process, as well as how emerging designers can play their part (even on a budget).
We further discuss fashion’s lack of body inclusivity and marketing for size-inclusive garments and Ngoni tells us about life post-university, with the advice that networking is one of the most important qualities an emerging designer needs. Ultimately, it’s not always what you know, but who you know.
Overall, this mind-bending podcast focuses on real thought-provoking topics as well as being so inspirational. Before you dive in, we’ll leave you with this quote from Ngoni herself:
“Do great s***, be amazing and make the planet a better place!”
Discover more about We Are Kin & Ngoni:
We Are Kin Online store: www.wearekin.co
We Are Kin Instagram: @wearekin.co
Ngoni's Instagram: @ngoni
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