Zara Odu, the visionary behind Roundabout, has long pondered the path to developing a sustainable and circular fashion industry. Recognizing the need for new tools to support the sustainable growth of African designers, she founded the Designers Consociate, a consulting firm fostering ethical manufacturing practices among African fashion companies. After over six years of service and discussions with industry experts, she realized the pivotal need to place resources into the hands of more industry players.
Roundabout, Odu's creation, serves as a virtual hub and toolkit for designers and entrepreneurs to learn and share insights on implementing circular design principles. The mission is to facilitate sustainable solutions throughout the entire fashion supply chain, with a particular focus on African fashion designers. Odu acknowledges the sustainable aspects already embedded in many African brands, but she emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional practices. The platform seeks to help brands plan ahead and craft designs with premium materials, promoting a stronger, more sustainable future for the fashion industry.
Roundabout aims to foster innovation and collaboration in the industry. While Designers Consociate offers one-on-one assistance, Roundabout provides a space for designers and industry professionals to convene, engage in in-depth discussions on sustainability, and explore innovative methods to implement these principles. Odu's focus primarily revolves around working with African firms, but international partnerships with forward-thinking brands like Studio Hilo further contribute to the evolution of the fashion industry. As the fashion sector faces growing expectations for eco-conscious practices, platforms like Roundabout play a vital role in preparing African fashion for sustainable production as it scales.
By creating a space for these various viewpoints, Roundabout offers a unique blend of perspectives, aiding the industry in transitioning towards a sustainable future. The project, launched in June, has a well-structured plan for its evolution, from educational content to premium memberships, expert-led classes, and a retail component, allowing featured brands to embody the values of the Roundabout community. As sustainability becomes increasingly crucial for designers and consumers alike, platforms like Roundabout offer a bridge to a more sustainable, circular fashion industry.
