Why this Cameroonian Designer Believes in Eco-Fashion | Read More

Award-winning Cameroonian designer and founder of fashion house Margo’s Mode Ngwane Liz has attracted a lot of media attention with her efforts to protect the environment through sustainable fashion. Her designs, from conception to production, take into account raw materials and behaviors that will not harm the environment.

“Fashion is one of the most polluting industries, so I take into account environmental management,” Liz said. “I have a degree in environmental studies, so I’m happy to merge my passions.”

As a student, Liz carried out an impact assessment of the effects of rubber production on the environment at the Cameroon Development Corporation’s plantations in the Southwest of Cameroon. She’s also had stints at Cameroon’s petroleum company SONARA. As certified safety personnel, she has found herself in a position to influence consumer’s daily habits.

“We should buy clothes with stories, clothes we can treasure and keep for a long time, clothes that are durable and not easily thrown away,” Liz said. If you look at the dresses we have, those tell African stories. And they never go away. Also, they’re made with cotton, which is not harmful to the environment. I still have my grandmother’s print.”

Liz is aware that organic can be expensive but believes a business model based on worth is profitable. She uses local cotton and organic raw materials from out of Cameroon. Her choice of cloth takes into account how much water and energy are needed to clean the fabric, as well as deliver no harmful chemicals into the environment.

Her first collection highlighted her zero-reject mantra, which was designed to educate the population on the benefits of recycling. She has taken it further with TV appearances and sensitization in public places like markets. She works with volunteers to collect waste that can be recycled into useful products. Margo’s Mode closely watches H&M and their commitment to applying sustainability to every part of their business.

“I want to see everyone in Africa having the environment in the back of their mind when they create and consume,” said Liz.

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