Kubali—a Kiswahili word meaning accept—is the essence of this piece. Inspired by my observations of life around me, it reflects my journey of navigating a challenging, unconventional path and embracing its turbulence. In a world where one can craft a fantasy through the internet, I stumbled upon a striking image of a Mucubal woman wearing an exquisite hat. My research revealed that the Mucubal, a semi-nomadic subgroup of the Herero people from southern Angola, live in isolation, braving extreme climates while seeking green pastures.

 

As a Rwandan pursuing fashion in Kenya—a field often reduced to tailoring and repair, my journey resonates with the Mucubal’s resilience and self-reliance. Living in Kenya, I also witness fashion dumping firsthand, which drives my commitment to sustainability. The fabrics for this piece were sourced from Gikomba market, a hub for discarded Western garments, allowing me to practice fashion circularity while presenting cultural authenticity.

 

By combining storytelling, innovation, and cultural richness, I aim to address critical issues like sustainability and celebrate African heritage, values that align perfectly with the Fashion Frontier Program’s vision.

 

　　Material：For yellow sections Cotton/poliester fleece and the skirt part silky curtains

　　Photography by YASUNARI KIKUMA / ©︎ FASHION FRONTIER PROGRAM 

 

 

Hakizimana Singizwa Bertrand

Instagram：@alienatedroute