Growing up in the Western world gave Elisabeth Berabose a new experience of sexism and racism. The society she was in, she says, didn’t empower her as she faced colourism. This was the inspiration behind her getting involved in the fashion and design business. “I had to find a way to express myself and empower myself. That empowerment came through fashion. The way I would dress would make me feel good about myself and more confident in society. Therefore, I wanted to transmit that to others and make sure everyone feels empowered,” she said. Berabose grew up in Belgium, and also lived in Spain, New York and Ghana. After coming back to her home land last year, the 27 year old decided to put her idea into action this year by coming up with a workshop known as Berabose Designs, located in Gikondo, Kigali. The newly launched brand is a fashion clinic where anyone can book an appointment, have a consultation about their fashion preferences. “The designs are inspired by all the individuals who come to the workshop for a consultation. All the creations are inspired by the community,” she added. Providing more than just designs Through her design, Berabose creates something specific for a client, in which they feel empowered, which connects with the meaning of the name Berabose in Kinyarwanda. “I get to know my client, in what direction we are going and most importantly; what my limits are in terms of creativity, as a designer,” she said. After the consultation, the sketches are created and presented to the customer. Once the sketches are confirmed, the items are produced. She works with other women with the aim of women empowerment. Aspirations With this brand, Beraboses dreams to revolve around different elements including global fashion. She aspires to put Rwanda on the map in the fashion industry and promote Made in Rwanda fashion industry so that the country can benefit from more visibility. Besides, promoting the African continent and the beauty of its nature is her dream, where she hopes to use only materials produced on the continent (Made in Africa). The young entrepreneur also dreams of enhancing women’s empowerment as well as empowering others through fashion. Moving forward, the fashion enthusiast hopes to promote the concept of slow fashion which is defined by clothes that are manufactured in respect to people and environment by working with local artisans, use eco-friendly materials, preserving crafts and environment and provide value for both consumers and producers. Challenges and achievements Access to eco-friendly and organic fabrics that are produced in Africa is one of the main setbacks the entrepreneur is facing. “Ideally, I would like to have all the processes of the supply chain been 100 per cent made on the continent, but the mobility of goods within the continent can be challenging,” she pointed out. Since the onset of her business two months ago, she has managed to gain visibility in the country, but also overseas. According to her, sustainable, women-led businesses are key to reduce inequalities and ensure sustained and inclusive growth, and the business she believes is part of that growth. “Following your dream is always scary and challenging, especially as a young woman entrepreneur. You will face a lot of obstacles as well as ups and downs, but it is important to remember why you started this journey in the beginning, that’s what keeps me going,” she added.
