Zemenay is Ethiopia’s plus size inclusive fashion brand, with a commitment to size inclusiveness, sustainability, and women’s economic empowerment. The brand prioritizes ethical production practices, ensuring that their waste is repurposed into new products. Their dedication to learning about circular design and sustainable fashion is a continuous journey, striving to minimize environmental impact. Zemenay proudly collaborates with women artisans and youth. Their advocacy for size inclusiveness reflects the belief that fashion should celebrate every body. The brand creates wearable art that is functional, versatile and timeless.
In Ethiopia’s fashion industry, plus-size individuals have long been overlooked, until fashion designer Betselot Zewge launched Zemenay, the brand that is championing bold, body-positive fashion. With critical support from the British Council’s CreativeDNA programme, including mentorship, market insight, international exposure, and access to networks, Betselot transformed her vision into impact. Through showcases at CANEX (IATF2023) in Egypt and Hub of Africa Fashion Week, Zemenay gained global recognition, landing features in Vogue Italy and Vogue USA, and debuting on a UK-based e-commerce platform. Next is preparation to open her flagship store in Addis Ababa showing that Betselot’s journey is proof that with the right support, fashion can be more than creative expression; it can be a viable, thriving career path in Africa.
Targeted investment in creative entrepreneurship not only builds inclusive representation but also opens career pathways and empowers youthled fashion brands across Africa. Apart from being featured in Vogue (Italy), Zemenay has participated on different stages both nationally and internationally including Hub of Africa fashion week for three consecutive years, Berlin fashion week’s Neo fashion platform in Germany, Cape Town week of fashion and CANEX at Intra African trade fair held in Egypt, Cairo.
Call us: +251911198989 E-mail: zemenayethiopia@ gmail.com https://zemenay.mitreeki.com/
Source (text and images): British Council (Ethiopia)