Mettā has unveiled designers selected to join the second cycle of Fashion Product Lab.
This cohort was selected from more than 140 applicants from different backgrounds and represent a diverse range of geographies from across the African continent.
As part of the product lab, the 2017 cohort will have the opportunity to engage with high-profile speakers, expert mentors, and a global network of support throughout the 8-week program in Nairobi. Startups will also have access to a space, industry resources, and the for zero cost and zero equity.
“We are delighted to welcome a diverse cohort with a mix of perspectives and backgrounds, and give them access to mentors, speakers and Metta members who are global experts including more than 500 investors, serial entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and academics.” said Maurice Otieno, GM at Metta in Africa.
The cohort comprises of 55% of women from South Africa, Ivory Coast, Togo and Ethiopia with a good majority coming from Kenya and Nigeria. The 8 participants comprise of 6 female designers and 2 male designers, all eager to lead disruptive fashion businesses.
There are 3 Kenyan companies, 1 Nigerian, Sudanese, Ugandan, Zimbabwean and South Africa and all design ready-to-wear collections. The Fashion Product Lab will culminate on December 2, 2017, at the Metta Demo Day, where entrepreneurs will pitch their startups, showcase their collections for funding and partnerships.
The 2017 cohort includes;
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