SHIFT80 a vibrant initiative by a Japanese creative based in Kenya, is set to host a fashion and design competition, SHIFT80 Design Prize 2024, to showcase Kenya’s incredible talent on a global platform.
The event which will be done in collaboration with Kenyan fashion designers and models, on December 11, with an aim to discover and nurture young, ambitious designers while infusing fresh energy into Kenya’s fashion industry. It also seeks to connect local creatives with international designers, fostering cross-cultural innovation and success on the global stage with a rallying call on “Upcycling and Sustainability”, the competition encourages participants to craft eco-friendly designs using second-hand and recycled materials, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Apart from leveraging creativity, fashion, and art, SHIFT80 also empowers girls and women in Kibera by providing menstrual education and access to sanitary products, with 80 per cent of its profit being reinvested in Africa to empower marginalized communities.
This year’s competition boasts 21 outstanding entries, all demonstrating a deep understanding of social and environmental issues. These designs, featuring innovative upcycling techniques and eco-friendly materials, perfectly embody SHIFT80’s vision of a sustainable future for fashion.
Beyond the awards ceremony, SHIFT80 will be launching its first-ever pop-up store in Nairobi throughout December. This exciting pop-up will showcase a collection of upcycled fashion, where traditional Japanese fabrics like kimonos meet Kenyan vintage clothing.
Ahead of the event, the organizers are keen to share their vision and discuss how fashion and creativity can uplift women and girls from underprivileged communities.
“Our mission is not only to create innovative upcycled designs but also to build a brighter future for aspiring communities by supporting education, economic opportunities, and menstrual hygiene initiatives,” Miggy Sakat, founder of SHIFT80 told Pulse.
In addition to her work with SHIFT80, Sakata is a prolific essayist and speaker, writing on topics such as travel and creative careers. Her books include If Not for Travel, I Would Have Died, a world-travel memoir selected as one of the “Best Travel Books of 2020,” and Let the Cute One Travel: A Guide to Solo Adventures.
Her work has earned prestigious accolades, including Cannes Lions and Spikes Asia. She also served as a judge for the ACC Tokyo Creativity Awards in 2022, recognizing her leadership in the creative industry.
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