Manuela lived in Malawi for approximately 3 years, working in the International Development sector. During that time, she set up the basis for this collaborative fashion project. Manukafashion was launched in 2011 with the aim of using local resources and materials while employing local tailors to create outfits and accessories that combine modernity with sparkling African colours, Italian timeles
s chic and vibrant local influences. Manuela went back to Rome in March 2013. She decided to share her experience with two of her closest friends, Valentina Conti and Lisa Giovannitti, who enjoy the same passion for African fashion, social business, and multiculturalism. They had become friends while studying Development Economics and International Cooperation together in Rome. Manukafashion became a social cooperative in 2014. The new team is currently focusing on expanding the project with the commitment of maintaining a strong link with Malawi and African fabrics. The team is currently launching new collections which involve home textile products. New styles are created for contemporary garments by mixing African patterns and fabrics, mostly Chitenjes / Kitenjes, a typical African fabric, with Italian fabrics. Some fabrics used to realize the products come directly from Africa through Manukafashion network which includes a cooperative in Uganda producing tie-dye fabrics by employing disadvantaged Ugandan woman. The products are partly made in Malawi, where Emmanuel still lives with his family, and partly in Rome, where the “new Manukafashion” is based: infact Manukafashion is currently enlarging its network with new tailors and artisans from migrant communities in Rome. Manukafashion envisions a fashion business which creates employment for young tailors and artists, mostly African. In the future, Manukafashion is looking to apply the same concept of combining African fabrics and European fashion style to the interior design industry. The flower in Manukafashion’s logo translates the mix between elegance and simplicity, key elements of Manukafashion’s spirit.
