Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Vazi Wazi is a Swahili translation of Open Clothing. We aim to lengthen the lifecycle of textiles by upscaling and recycling used clothes and fabrics into fashionable apparel and pieces, that are then reintroduced into the market for renting or reselling.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Vazi Wazi's primary goal is to reduce textile waste by repurposing discarded clothes and fabrics by creating trendy, unique, and stylish garments and accessories from pre-used materials and reintroducing these upcycled pieces into the market, making sustainable fashion accessible and appealing to consumers. This involves the collection of used clothes and fabrics from various sources, including donations, and textile waste from industries. The collected items are sorted based on fabric type, quality, and potential for upcycling. They are then thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Designers and artisans collaborate to transform these materials into new, fashionable pieces through creative redesign, patchwork, embroidery, and techniques to enhance their aesthetics and functional value. The aim is to help creatively divert textiles from landfills to reduce environmental pollution and conserve natural resources, create jobs for local artisans, and raise awareness of sustainable fashion.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem Vazi Wazi is trying to solve is the significant environmental and economic impact of textile waste in Kenya. This is represented by: Environmental Pollution: Textile waste contributes to landfill overflow and environmental degradation, releasing harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases into the environment as fabrics decompose. Resource Depletion: The fashion industry consumes vast amounts of natural resources, including water and energy, which are wasted when textiles are discarded prematurely. Economic Inefficiency: Discarded textiles represent a loss of potential economic value, both in terms of the materials themselves and the missed opportunities for creating new products and jobs.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Environmental > Upcycling and recycling used textiles significantly reduce the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills. The project conserves natural resources by reusing existing materials instead of new raw materials. It also minimizes textile waste and helps reduce the release of harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases associated with fabric decomposition. Economic > Creation of employment opportunities for designers, artisans, and workers involved in the upcycling process. The project stimulates the local economy by supporting small businesses and local artisans. By introducing upcycled fashion into the market, it opens up new economic avenues within the sustainable fashion industry. Social > Vazi Wazi raises awareness about sustainable fashion and encourages consumers to make environmentally conscious purchasing decisions. The project educates people on the importance of upcycling. By making sustainable fashion accessible and trendy, inclusivity in fashion is promoted.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Vazi Wazi will create a cleaner, healthier environment for all Kenyans ensuring that future generations inherit a less polluted and more sustainable world. > Local artisans and designers involved in the production processes get job opportunities and income. The project supports local businesses that supply materials, tools, and services required for upcycling activities. > Eco-conscious consumers benefit from having access to unique, stylish, and sustainable fashion options at potentially lower prices than high-end sustainable brands. > Marginalized and underprivileged communities get employment and training opportunities through workshops, training programs, and community engagement activities. > Organizations and individuals advocating for sustainable fashion benefit from our innovative contributions to raising awareness and promoting eco-friendly fashion choices. > Institutions can collaborate for sustainable fashion curriculum development, and practical training, and upcycling.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Kennedy Opiyo Okullo is a seasoned fashion designer with over 6 years of experience in the fashion industry. He holds a degree in Fashion Design from Maseno University and has worked with several fashion houses across East Africa. Skills: Fashion Design: With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of fashion trends, he combines his commitment to sustainability to create unique and stylish upcycled pieces. Project Management: He has managed various fashion projects from conception to completion, showcasing his ability to oversee complex processes and coordinate multiple stakeholders. Community Engagement: He has experience in leading community workshops and training programs, and educating others about sustainable fashion and upcycling techniques.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

e) Secondary commodities (cars and parts, consumer durables and apparel, retail)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

> Vazi Wazi creates jobs for local artisans, designers, and workers involved in the collection, sorting, cleaning, and upcycling processes. The project encourages entrepreneurship by supporting small businesses and local artisans who produce and sell upcycled fashion items. Through training programs and workshops, Vazi Wazi equips individuals with valuable skills that enhance employability and open up further economic opportunities for participants. > By sourcing materials locally and promoting locally made products, Vazi Wazi stimulates the local economy. The project provides a platform for artisans and designers to showcase and sell their upcycled fashion items through access to broader markets. > Vazi Wazi educates consumers about the importance of sustainable fashion and responsible consumption to support local artisans and sustainable products, driving demand and stimulating economic growth.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

> By creating jobs and income opportunities for local artisans, designers, and workers involved in upcycling which enables better access to food and improved nutrition. > Sourcing products locally births stronger local economies and can lead to better food security as communities have more resources to invest in food production and distribution. > By targeting vulnerable groups such as women and youth, the project ensures that these groups have the economic means to secure adequate food and nutrition for themselves and their families. > Vazi Wazi’s emphasis on sustainability extends to its business practices, including minimizing waste and promoting the efficient use of resources can inspire similar approaches in agriculture and food production, leading to more sustainable food systems. >Vazi Wazi reduces textile waste and conserves resources, indirectly supporting the conservation of resources that can be redirected towards sustainable agriculture e.g. water for agricultural purposes.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

> By upcycling and recycling textiles, Vazi Wazi helps reduce environmental pollution and the release of harmful chemicals associated with conventional textile production. This contributes to cleaner air, water, and soil, which are essential for maintaining good human health. > The project emphasizes ethical production practices, ensuring that the materials used in upcycled fashion items are safe and free from harmful substances. > Vazi Wazi promotes sustainable lifestyles by encouraging consumers to make environmentally conscious choices. > The project's educational workshops on sustainable fashion initiatives will empower participants with knowledge that can positively impact their lifestyles and well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

> Vazi Wazi will enhance employability and encourage lifelong learning through workshops and training programs on sustainable fashion and upcycling techniques designed to educate participants, including local artisans, designers, and community members, about the principles of sustainable fashion. > By encouraging participants to think creatively about materials and design, Vazi Wazi promotes lifelong learning in artistic expression and sustainable practices. > Vazi Wazi will engage with local communities to raise awareness about sustainable fashion and its benefits to promote environmental consciousness and educate community members about the importance of making informed choices as consumers. > Vazi Wazi will facilitate knowledge sharing on sustainable practices and entrepreneurship. This collaboration contributes to building a culture of learning and innovation within the community.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

> Vazi Wazi will create employment opportunities for women, particularly in roles such as artisans, designers, and workers involved in the upcycling and production processes. The project will empower women economically, enabling them to earn income and support their families. > The project supports women entrepreneurs by providing platforms to showcase their skills and products in sustainable fashion. This encourages women to take on leadership roles within the fashion industry and beyond. > Vazi Wazi equips women with valuable skills in fashion design, upcycling techniques, and sustainable practices to enhance their employability and entrepreneurial capabilities, empowering them to pursue sustainable livelihoods. > The project promotes a supportive and inclusive work environment where women feel valued and empowered to contribute effectively therefore enhancing productivity and creativity.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

>By upcycling and repurposing used textiles, Vazi Wazi reduces the demand for new fabric production, which is water-intensive. This practice helps conserve water resources that would otherwise be used in conventional textile manufacturing processes. >The project emphasizes the efficient use of water during the cleaning and preparation phases of upcycling. Techniques such as eco-friendly cleaning methods and water-efficient production processes are employed to minimize water wastage. >By diverting textiles from landfills and reducing the need for new fabric production, Vazi Wazi helps mitigate water pollution associated with textile dyeing and treatment processes. >Vazi Wazi promotes the use of safe and environmentally friendly cleaning agents and dyes in the upcycling process. This practice reduces the release of harmful chemicals into water bodies, supporting sustainable water management practices.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

> By upcycling and repurposing used textiles, Vazi Wazi reduces the energy demand associated with manufacturing new fabrics. This practice helps conserve energy resources and lowers the project's overall carbon footprint. > The project emphasizes energy-efficient production techniques during the upcycling and manufacturing of fashion items. This includes optimizing equipment use and adopting technologies that minimize energy consumption during production.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

> Vazi Wazi creates jobs for local artisans, designers, and workers involved in the collection, sorting, cleaning, upcycling, and production of fashion items. These employment opportunities provide stable income and support economic growth within communities. > The project supports small-scale entrepreneurs and artisans by providing them with platforms to showcase and sell their upcycled fashion products. This support stimulates local economies and promotes entrepreneurship by sourcing products locally. > Vazi Wazi prioritizes the empowerment of vulnerable groups, including women and youth, by providing them with equal opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. This inclusive approach promotes social equity and reduces inequalities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

> Vazi Wazi promotes resilient infrastructure by upcycling and repurposing used textiles into new fashion items. This reduces the demand for new materials and minimizes the environmental impact associated with conventional textile production. > By diverting textile waste from landfills, Vazi Wazi contributes to building resilient waste management systems. This reduces the strain on existing infrastructure and supports sustainable resource management practices. > The project supports local artisans, designers, and small businesses by providing them with opportunities to participate in sustainable fashion initiatives. This inclusive approach promotes economic growth and industrialization at the community level. > Our training programs and workshops build the capacity of participants in fashion design, upcycling techniques, and sustainable practices. This capacity building fosters a skilled workforce capable of driving sustainable industrialization.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

> Vazi Wazi creates employment opportunities for local artisans, particularly women and youth, who may face economic disparities and lack access to formal employment. By providing these opportunities, the project helps reduce income inequality and promotes economic empowerment. > The project supports small-scale entrepreneurs and artisans by providing them with platforms to showcase and sell their upcycled fashion products. This support enables them to participate in economic activities and generate sustainable income, thereby reducing economic disparities. > Vazi Wazi upholds fair trade principles and ethical production standards in its operations. This includes ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for labor rights, which are essential for reducing inequality within the fashion industry. > By providing equal access to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, Vazi Wazi helps reduce social and economic inequalities within communities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

> Vazi Wazi's upcycling and repurposing used textiles into new fashion items promotes sustainable consumption and production patterns by extending the lifecycle of materials and reducing the environmental impact of textile disposal. > The project emphasizes resource efficiency in fashion production, including water and energy use. By adopting eco-friendly practices and promoting responsible resource management, Vazi Wazi contributes to building sustainable cities and reducing the ecological footprint of urban areas. > By promoting sustainable practices and reducing environmental impact, Vazi Wazi contributes to building resilient urban infrastructure and ecosystems. This resilience helps cities adapt to environmental challenges such as climate change and natural disasters. > Vazi Wazi upholds ethical production standards, ensuring safe and fair working conditions for artisans and workers involved in its operations. This supports urban dwellers' safety and urban resilience.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

> Vazi Wazi reduces textile waste by upcycling and repurposing used textiles into new fashion items. By extending the lifecycle of materials, the project minimizes the environmental impact associated with textile disposal and promotes resource efficiency. > The project emphasizes conserving materials through creative design and efficient production processes. By using existing textiles as the primary resource for fashion production, Vazi Wazi reduces the demand for virgin materials and supports sustainable resource management. > The project promotes repair and maintenance services for fashion items, extending their usability and promoting a culture of care and longevity among consumers. > Vazi Wazi sources materials locally whenever possible, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local economies. The project ensures that its supply chain aligns with sustainable production standards. > Renting ensures that consumers use goods on a need basis only.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

> Vazi Wazi sources materials locally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation and logistics and minimizing the environmental impact of shipping goods over long distances. > The project emphasizes energy-efficient production techniques and promotes the efficient use of energy sources by reducing energy consumption.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

> By upcycling used clothes and fabrics, Vazi Wazi significantly reduces the amount of textile waste that could potentially end up in oceans and seas. Textile waste often contributes to marine pollution. > Vazi Wazi uses eco-friendly dyes and sustainable production processes that minimize the release of harmful chemicals and pollutants into water bodies. > The project implements water-efficient production methods, significantly reducing water usage compared to traditional textile manufacturing. By conserving water therefore maintaining healthy freshwater and marine ecosystems. > Vazi Wazi reduces the demand for new raw materials, including water-intensive cotton and other resources that impact marine environments through agricultural runoff and pesticide use.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

> By upcycling used textiles into new apparel, Vazi Wazi significantly reduces the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills. This reduction in waste helps prevent soil contamination and decreases the space required for landfills, preserving natural habitats and ecosystems. > Vazi Wazi promotes environmental resilience by advocating for sustainable land use practices and ecosystem conservation therefore preserving natural habitats and promoting biodiversity, > Our circular economy model ensures that textiles are reused and recycled, reducing the need for new raw materials. This approach conserves natural resources and reduces the environmental impact of resource extraction.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

> Vazi Wazi upholds fair trade principles in its operations, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for labor rights for all workers involved in its supply chain. This commitment supports social justice and contributes to building inclusive and equitable societies. > The project promotes transparency in its business practices, including supply chain management and financial reporting. By demonstrating accountability to stakeholders, Vazi Wazi builds trust and fosters a culture of integrity within the fashion industry. > Vazi Wazi prioritizes the inclusion of vulnerable groups, such as women and youth, in its activities. By providing equal access to economic opportunities and resources. > By promoting economic inclusion and entrepreneurship, the project enhances community resilience and fosters social cohesion.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

> Vazi Wazi collaborates with diverse stakeholders including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, and local communities. These partnerships leverage resources, expertise, and networks to amplify impact and achieve sustainable development goals. > Our training programs and workshops on sustainable fashion practices, upcycling techniques, and entrepreneurship help in building the capacity of individuals and organizations, the project empowers stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

2

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

2

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

2

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

6

05.08 Justification

> The introduction of a buy or rent service for upcycled apparel makes sustainable fashion accessible and affordable to a broader audience. Customers who may not afford to purchase new clothing can opt to rent high-quality, fashionable items at a lower cost.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Main Competitors > Sustainable Fashion Brands Example: Characteristics: These brands focus on sustainable materials, ethical production practices, and transparency in their supply chains. Upcycling Initiatives Examples: Rapanui, The Renewal Workshop, Looptworks Characteristics: These initiatives focus on transforming waste materials into new products, promoting circular economy principles. Clothing Rental Services Examples: Rent the Runway, Le Tote, HURR Collective Characteristics: These services offer customers the option to rent designer and everyday clothing items for a specified period, promoting the reuse of garments and reducing waste.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

I am a member of Creative Industries, an organization that offers training programs to youths and women in essential business skills and emerging fields like graphic design, animation, and digital marketing.