Artisans and Ethical Practices: Weaving Social Capital in the Fashion Industry
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By PAGE Editor
"Working with artisans is like weaving the fabric of society together: it is not only about business, but about the production of social capital and the development of a balanced and harmonious society."
- Simone Cipriani, Head and Founder of the Ethical Fashion Initiative
In an industry driven by fast-paced trends, it is crucial to push the boundaries and redefine the fashion landscape. Embracing artisans and ethical practices goes beyond mere aesthetics; it is a powerful way to make a lasting impact on both the fashion industry and society as a whole. One organization that stands at the forefront of this movement is the Ethical Fashion Initiative (EFI).
The Ethical Fashion Initiative program has a clear mission: to connect artisans from marginalized communities to the international market. By providing material and technical support, as well as access to responsible international customers, EFI empowers artisans and promotes African cultural values. Through initiatives like EFI, the fashion industry can become a catalyst for positive change.
One remarkable example of the impact of EFI's work can be seen through their partnership with CABES, a production center in Burkina Faso. CABES serves as a supplier to the international market, creating job opportunities and fostering capacity building in a challenging environment. The artisans who are part of the CABES network, the majority of whom are women, rely on their craft to support their families and send their children to school. By supporting organizations like CABES, fashion brands can contribute to the creation of dignified and well-paid jobs while preserving cultural heritage.
Fashion brands that embrace sustainability and women's empowerment have an opportunity to make a difference through collaborations with organizations like CABES. By incorporating fabrics made by artisans into their creations, brands not only secure work for the artisans but also give visibility to their unique creations. The Jabali coat from Asantii's debut collection is a testament to this ethos, featuring loom-woven Faso Dan Fani fabric developed in collaboration with CABES. By consciously choosing to work with organizations like CABES, brands can make a statement and be proud of their commitment to ethical fashion.
CABES, established in partnership with EFI, has brought together women-led associations and thousands of artisans, reaching luxury clients globally. What sets CABES apart is not only the brilliance of its fabrics but also its commitment to using GOTS certified dyes and cottons, adhering to international labor conventions and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Through its intricate weaving process, CABES preserves the heritage of Faso Dan Fani, a textile tradition deeply rooted in Burkina Faso's identity.
In addition, we are excited to announce that CABES products will be available on the upcoming launch of the World Collective Marketplace HUB in July. This platform will provide an opportunity for brands to connect directly with the program and purchase the amazing products created by CABES artisans. By participating in this launch, brands can further contribute to the empowerment of artisans and the promotion of ethical fashion practices.
By supporting organizations like CABES and EFI, consumers can contribute to building sustainable fashion practices in emerging economies. Every purchase becomes an opportunity to empower artisans, improve living conditions, and promote creativity. The future of the fashion industry lies in recognizing the social and environmental impact of our choices and embracing artisans and ethical practices as the foundation for a better, more inclusive world.
Here is an opportunity where we can create a world where fashion becomes a force for social change, where every garment tells a story of empowerment and sustainability. By supporting organizations like EFI and brands that collaborate with artisans like CABES, we can weave a brighter future for the fashion industry and society at large.
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