The Creative DNA: Kenya 3.0 programme, created to support 20 Kenya-based early-stage fashion and accessory enterprises, offered business skill development, strengthened networks in Kenya and the UK, and action-based learning through digital coaching sessions, online campaigns, and market opportunities. Building on the success of the 2020 and 2022 Creative DNA programmes, this initiative has become an integral part of Kenya’s creative economy. The selected fashion start-ups included Akiba Studios, Molivian, Matia Kenya, Aert Fashion, Vaa Ke, Oye, Amagove Mugere, Mago Got You, Uncommon Rebel, Tribal Trends, The Label Saba, Tausi Conde, Bonkerz Nrb, Mrembo Africa, Theresia Kyallo, Alegohono, True Denim Collection, African Yuva Solutions, Hisi Studio, and The Bold Latte.
Led by Trio Media in partnership with Fashion Scout from the UK, the programme featured a comprehensive curriculum that comprised 12 sessions offered online by the UK team and physically by the Kenyan team. The curriculum covered a diverse set of topics such as brand identity, quality control, pricing, sustainability and market entry. The team included:
Kenya:
- Silvia Tonui – Project Manager, Founder, Trio Media
- Ann McCreath – Fashion Educator, Founder, Kikoromeo
- Wendéy Mosingi – Project Coordinator, Trio Media
- Daisy Chesang – Grants Manager,
United Kingdom:
- Biljana Poposka-Roberts – Fashion Educator, Founder, Fashion Scout
- Martyn Roberts – Fashion Educator, Co-Founder, Fashion Scout
Supported by:
- British Council
- British Council Kenya :@eastafricaarts
Designers participated in workshops at key facilities such as Gearbox Maker Space, Gladys Abode, Mfuanji by Titi and Opportunity Factory in Karen gaining hands-on experience with CAD, laser cutting, weaving, dyeing, and more. The “Fashion Tale” podcast, available on Spotify, allowed designers to share their experiences, while a month-long pop-up market at the African Lifestyle Hub provided a platform to showcase their work. Additionally, through an open call, designers from Cohorts 2 and 3 had the opportunity to apply for microgrants worth Ksh 300,000 each, with ten designers receiving these grants to foster sustainable and dynamic fashion enterprises. A round table discussion, presented by the British Council and Fashion Revolution Kenya, explored sustainable production practices.
The programme also included a photoshoot for the digital zine “Wauzine 4,” themed around Identity and Belonging, which can be accessed here. Furthermore, as part of the Creative DNA: Africa initiative, seven leading and sustainable designers from Sub-Saharan Africa, including participants from the Kenyan cohort, traveled to London for a London Fashion Week residency. This cross-cultural project, supported by the British Council, demonstrated the professional and economic potential of the African fashion sector.
The Creative DNA 3.0 programme has significantly contributed to the growth of Kenya’s creative economy, equipping designers with essential skills, industry connections, and market opportunities for international success.
