The Soul of Africa shoes are the result of a collaboration between a leading global barefoot footwear company -- Vivobarefoot, and the Desert Flower Foundation — an organization started by Waris Dirie that advocates against female genital mutilation.
The footwear is made in Ethiopia, ensuring an increase in economic stability for individuals who live there. The Soul of Africa shoes are hand-stitched in a new production facility in Addis Ababa. The designs also boast whimsical and stylish patterns with World Fair Trade Certified canvas from the Village Industry. These textiles are adorned with color from natural dyes and the cotton is sourced with attention being paid to sustainability.
The opportunity that Vivobarefoot and the Desert Flower Foundation bring to Ethiopia guarantees 100 sustainable jobs for local people.
Photo Credits: Asiko Artist
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Ethical Fashion
- The collaboration between Vivobarefoot and the Desert Flower Foundation highlights the growing trend towards ethical fashion and sustainability.
- Social Impact Collaborations
- Partnerships like the one between Vivobarefoot and the Desert Flower Foundation demonstrate the trend of businesses collaborating with social impact organizations to create positive change.
- Artisanal Production
- The hand-stitched production of the Soul of Africa shoes showcases the trend of artisanal craftsmanship in the footwear industry.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Footwear
- The Soul of Africa shoes present disruptive innovation opportunities for the footwear industry by combining ethical production practices, stylish designs, and sustainable materials.
- Fashion
- The collaboration between Vivobarefoot and the Desert Flower Foundation opens up new possibilities for disruption within the fashion industry, combining fashion-forward designs with a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
- Social Impact
- The partnership between Vivobarefoot and the Desert Flower Foundation demonstrates how social impact organizations can disrupt traditional industries by advocating for ethical practices and creating sustainable job opportunities.
