The Future of Rwanda
We profile four change makers talking about their dreams for Rwanda. – Complied by Ashley Makue
Sonia Mugabo– Founder of “Afrikana Exquisiteness” (AE) Sonia has always been passionate about fashion and having lived in the USA for 5 years, she interned in New York– the fashion capital of the world at three different occasions. Her biggest influence was interning at Teen Vogue where she got experience working with editors and influential people in the industry. Sonia showcased her first collection “Mix n’ Match” at the 2013 Kigali Fashion Week where she received International Coverage from The Guardian, BBC and Der Spiegel. She is currently working on opening a showroom and online store for her brand. “I want to make women feel beautiful and empowered by my designs.” she says.
Where do you see the Rwandan fashion industry in the future and what responsibility do fashion makers in Rwanda have in ensuring that these hopes are actualized? Rwanda, as a country is developing in different areas, and for the fashion industry being a boost for the economy, I see the Rwandan fashion Industry growing and putting Rwanda on the world style map. I am a firm believer that “as long as you are passionate about your vision, you should keep moving forward with it and believing in it.” If young Rwandan designers have this sort of mentality, no doubt we’ll be able to compete with more established African fashion places such as Accra and Lagos. Rwandan fashion has a lot to offer in the sense that we have a very rich culture with a very artistic side to it. For instance with our weaving and beading techniques, I’m always blown away with the detailing, vivid colors and the overall design. I also feel as though since the fashion industry is so new here, people are curious to see what us Rwandan Designers have to offer. We’re like a breath of fresh air.