Ancient tradition / modern fashion | Mahlet Afework | TEDxPlaceDesNations

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Combining ancient designs, traditional skills and a modern approach to fashion and entrepreneurship can lift women out of poverty and bring African fashion into the limelight.

Mahlet Afework is a fashion designer based in Addis Ababa. She started her career at 16 as a model and musician, while simultaneously studying nursing. She left school and quit modeling to follow her passion and become a professional fashion designer. She has since gained critical acclaim for her cutting-edge designs; winning the 2012 Origin Africa's design award, showcasing her work at African Fashion Week New York 2012, and winning the 2010 Designer of the Year award from Alliance Ethio-Française at European Fashion Day in Addis.
Mahlet works exclusively with hand-woven fabrics made by women. She creates clothing and accessories which are fresh and cutting-edge and at the same time very wearable. Working with hand-woven fabrics is a way for Mahlet to give back and to support women weavers who are often marginalized within the male-dominated weaving community. Mahlet is a beneficiary/participant of the International Trade Centre's Women and Trade Programme. The programme supports women entrepreneurs and help them connect to regional and global markets.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[aTrulyPowerfulSpirit]

What moves me most is that she has and will change so many people's lives for the better while promoting what is nourishing and beautiful. Oh how I wish each of us could find our own way of doing this.

[sophietegenu]

Wonderful speech Maffi, we are so proud of you! You're truly on the way to making a big mark on the global fashion industry. 

[flabbering]

I am truly inspired by your approach towards fashion! I am an amateur working towards traditional fashion too and coming across this video at this time was just great timing!

[AkanbiDamola]

Beautiful! its amazing how one's dream can create opportunities for others, thank you Mahlet.

[ethnow]

wow so beautiful!!! full of elegance!!! all my ethiopian independent wome put ur hands up!!!

[fafitrue]

I always believe on you mafi, I'm glad ur on top of ur game that every one can see how amazing, talented, inspiring, confident and and very intelligent ur. Thanks for been courages enough for introducing our culture for others.

[zionhabt]

I'm proud of you Mahlet, amazing talent & confident, I like to thank you that you gave a chance for that talented women's, GOD bless you😍💚💛❤️

[alelaentertainment]

This is 'Her' Maffi on the Place to I am so proud ov you sister Mahlet. I wish you many more successes in everything your hands touch Proud to be Ethiopian! Proud to be African! Go Go Maffi the Girl!!!!

[locojazz]

Worth the watch! Beautiful speech!! ❤️🤟🏾

[sol]

i am proud of being an Ethiopian. Proud of you Mafi..Thumps Up!

[gutemahayder]

Mahlet, you are so smart lady! My admire goes to you.
🙏❤

[addisabebe]

great job Mahlet, we Ethiopians expect a lot from you keep it up !!!

[eheteezineh]

Happy to see you go this far, respect for your hard work

[tadessetesfaye]

That is it ! you did it, very nice presentation

[BirukeAbraha]

Makes sense watching it today - 8 years after its initial post.

[NardosTesafaw]

Thanks for making ma day birgth n confident, I'm proud of u MAFI 😘

[selamtesfaye]

mafi you are the real deal. there is nothing you cant achieve

[abebr]

Great presentation. Wish you more success in life

[sandreentm]

Great Game Changer!! Thank you Mahlet :) 

[lrn-lrn]

Wow my beautiful Sister with the marvelous mind 💕GOD BLESS U