Working for, and with, African communities experiencing economic and social difficulties, Mayamiko strives for global sustainability and human equality.
The Mayamiko Trust, a UK based charity, aims to empower women in disadvantaged African communities. Mostly working in Malawi, Mayamiko promotes the value of education and transferable skills, to encourage self-sustainability and rewarding workmanship. The Trust argues education, training and nurture is the key to reprieve such stark poverty by unemployment relief. By defending their honour and independence, Mayamiko helps the locals nurture and restore their communities through their own ambition and willingness to learn.
The Mayamikans create beautiful, vibrant clothing and accessories, using traditional African techniques such as batik and tie dye. International demand for unique ethnic fashion pieces is at its highest ever, and Mayamiko aims to make their authentic, locally made items available for African textile lovers across the globe.
My favourites from the 2013-premiered Mayamiko online boutique:
I definitely consider myself part of this fashion demographic and was thrilled to find their beautiful Ida clutches.
I won't lie, I personally didn't embrace the whole 'oversized clutch' trend when it blew up. Being quite petite, I assumed it would look like I was tottering around town carrying a huge laptop case under my arm. I've now been swayed. The Mayamiko Designed Ida clutch in Vase Chintenje is too loud to be A5 sized, so I love this piece as a statement, not just a handy holdall.
Being a bit of a compulsive clasher, here I wore it casually with an Aztec River Island playsuit with a loose black Uniqlo tee, tied to the side for a bit of shape. Black tights suit the season and bright yellow Office slippers pick out the primary colours of the playsuit.
Mayamiko products are special. Each is different; made with indigenous creativity and cultivated craftsmanship. Made from 100% Malawian cotton, this clutch is a perfect product of traditional African textiles and contemporary Western fashion. The progress the Mayamiko team have made with disadvantaged communities is so virtuous. With other projects set to develop in the near future (an accomplished fashion college), this admirable company is inspiring us to take more ethical steps towards a healthier, more sustainable and equal global fashion future. Are you on board?
