Global members’ club for entrepreneurs Mettā has unveiled 10 fashion designers, eight from Kenya and two from Nigeria, to join its inaugural Fashion Product Lab in Nairobi, Kenya.
Disrupt Africa reported last month Mettā had launched the Fashion Product Lab, a programme to help fashion designers deliver on their true creative potential.
The 10 companies selected into the first cohort were chosen from a pool of 135 applications received from across Africa. Applicants’ fashion businesses were evaluated based on product viability, creativity, and potential to scale across African and global markets.
The chosen companies are Ikojn by Christine Njoki, Kidosho by Liz Kitua , MΔΠC|ΠY by Wairimu Migiwi, Peter Black by Irene Muiru, Binienu by Kaetochi- Swithin Nwuba, Swank African Fashions by Rose Tabby Kiiru, Ayitso Tsuma by Wendy Tsuma, Nyabame Nyaribo by Moraa Nyaribo, Favoloso by Nanu, and Jochlieu by Bridget Agba.
As part of the Fashion Product Lab, the 2016 cohort will have the opportunity to engage with high-profile speakers, expert mentors, and a global network of support throughout the eight-week programme in Nairobi. Startups will also have access to a collaboration space, resources and support from Nest and other partners for free and at zero equity.
It will culminate with a Runway Show at Mettā on December 9, where entrepreneurs will showcase their collections and pitch for funding and partnership opportunities.
