SHIFT80: Transforming Kenya into a sustainable fashion hub

For families prioritizing basic needs like food, sanitary pads were an unaffordable luxury. Left with makeshift alternatives like old newspapers and scraps of cloth, girls faced bullying, missed opportunities, and diminished dignity.

This experience spurred Sakata to action, eventually leading to SHIFT80, a social enterprise that merges sustainable fashion with community empowerment.

From Waste to Fashion

SHIFT80 focuses on transforming textile waste into wearable fashion, working with local Kenyan tailors and designers to upcycle discarded clothing, fabrics, and organic materials. The brand reinvests 80% of its profits into local communities, supporting education, providing hygiene products, and funding women’s empowerment initiatives.

"Fashion isn’t just about looking good—it can be a force for change,” says Sakata.

Tackling Textile Waste

Kenya, a major destination for second-hand clothing from developed countries, faces significant challenges with textile waste. Millions of garments are dumped annually, harming local industries and the environment. SHIFT80 aims to turn this waste into opportunity, creating jobs and reducing landfill burden while promoting a circular economy.

By repurposing traditional African fabrics like Kitenge and introducing made-to-order designs, SHIFT80 minimizes waste and highlights Kenya's rich creative talent.

Empowering Artisans and Communities

SHIFT80 collaborates with Kenyan designers and artisans, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills while creating meaningful employment. Notable collaborators include Lillian Wangala, who runs an orphan school in Kibera, and Oliver Asike, a designer known for upcycling second-hand clothes.

“It’s about more than fashion—it’s about restoring dignity and showcasing the brilliance of African creativity,” Sakata says.

Celebrating Innovation: SHIFT80 Design Prize

The inaugural SHIFT80 Design Prize Awards will be held on December 11, 2024, in Nairobi. This competition invited Kenyan designers to create garments using recycled materials, with cash prizes and collaboration opportunities up for grabs.

The event aims to highlight Kenya's potential as a hub for sustainable design and inspire more initiatives that merge creativity with community impact.

By redefining fashion with purpose, SHIFT80 offers a model for addressing global textile waste while empowering communities in Kenya.