Congo Fashion School Turns Waste into Wearable Art

In Kinshasa, the Regional Fashion Institute in Africa (IRMA) is establishing a vibrant hub for fashion education. The institute, located in an adapted industrial space, aims to train over 200 young aspiring designers by 2026. This initiative seeks to bolster the Congolese fashion industry, which currently faces competition from low-cost Asian imports.

IRMA provides free training in sewing and entrepreneurship to students from across Africa, fostering creativity and sustainable practices. Students are encouraged to repurpose waste materials, such as old curtains and plastic bags, into high-fashion garments, blending them with local materials like kuba cloth. This approach combats the environmental impact of fast fashion and highlights the potential for upcycling.

The institute is equipped with modern facilities, including industrial sewing machines and 3D printers, enabling efficient production. Beyond technical skills, IRMA emphasizes the rich cultural creativity of the Democratic Republic of Congo, viewing it as a significant national asset. By creating fashion jobs, IRMA aims to provide opportunities for young people, including those facing difficult circumstances.

Director Sidonie Latere envisions IRMA as a significant fashion laboratory in Central Africa. The program also draws inspiration from local subcultures like 'Sape,' known for its sophisticated style. This blend of tradition and innovation is poised to shape the future of African fashion, demonstrating that discarded items can indeed become works of art.