This two-day event brought together experts, decision-makers and human resources (HR) professionals from the African continent as well as international personalities to fuel debates around current and future issues in human capital management and sustainable development in Africa. .
Speaking during the closing ceremony, the president of the National Association of Managers and Experts in Human Resources Function (AGEF), Bouchra Nhaili, indicated that this edition was an opportunity to develop a “renewed and common vision” human resources prospects in the continent.
“These days made it possible to highlight the specificities of the African labor market as well as the solutions adapted to meet its challenges,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, professional training and diversity as essential levers for building “a more resilient and efficient Africa in the long term”.
During this flagship event for HR professionals in Africa, participants discussed panels on various themes, such as South-South cooperation, African leadership for economic and social integration, as well as new HR issues, in a constructive atmosphere focused on talent management and the qualification of human capital.
The JARHs 2024 thus offered a privileged space for meetings and sharing for HR stakeholders, conducive to innovation, networking and the exchange of best practices.
How can aspiring designers get started in the sustainable fashion industry?
Interview with Emma Carter: Innovator in Sustainable Fashion
Interviewer: Good morning, Emma! Thank you for joining us today. I’m excited to talk about your journey in sustainable fashion.
Emma Carter: Good morning! Thank you for having me. I’m thrilled to share my story!
Interviewer: To kick things off, can you tell us what inspired you to enter the world of sustainable fashion?
Emma Carter: Absolutely! Growing up, I was always fascinated by fashion, but I started to notice the environmental impact of the industry — from waste to pollution. After attending a seminar on sustainable practices, I realized I could merge my passion for fashion with my commitment to the environment. It was a lightbulb moment!
Interviewer: That’s inspiring! Could you share some of the challenges you’ve faced in building your brand?
Emma Carter: Definitely. One major challenge has been sourcing sustainable materials. Many conventional textile manufacturers are set in their ways and resistant to change. It took countless hours of research and establishing relationships with suppliers who share my values. But overcoming those challenges made the process rewarding.
Interviewer: It sounds like you’ve really had to advocate for change. How has your brand evolved since its inception?
Emma Carter: Well, it started as a small collection of upcycled clothing, and now we offer a full range of apparel made from organic materials. We’ve also launched a recycling program where customers can send back their old clothing for a discount on their next purchase. It’s been fantastic to see the community engage with that initiative!
Interviewer: That’s such a clever way to involve your customers! Sustainability is a buzzword these days. How do you make your brand stand out in a crowded market?
Emma Carter: I believe authenticity is key. We focus on transparency—sharing our process, challenges, and successes with our customers. Additionally, our design aesthetic is unique; we blend timeless styles with bold colors. We want our customers to feel good about their purchases on every level.
Interviewer: It sounds like you’ve created a strong brand ethos. Speaking of which, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the sustainable fashion space?
Emma Carter: My biggest piece of advice is to stay true to your values, even if it’s tempting to take shortcuts. Build relationships with those who are aligned with your mission and be patient; change takes time. Lastly, engage with your community — they will be your biggest advocates!
Interviewer: Great advice! Looking forward, what’s next for you and your brand? Any exciting projects on the horizon?
Emma Carter: Yes! We’re in the early stages of launching a line of zero-waste accessories, and we’re partnering with local artisans to create unique pieces. We’re also working on a virtual summit focused on educating consumers about sustainable practices in fashion. I can’t wait to share more!
Interviewer: That sounds fantastic! Lastly, before we wrap up, what’s one thing you wish more people knew about sustainable fashion?
Emma Carter: I wish people knew that sustainable fashion isn’t just for the wealthy. There are affordable options, and small changes make a big difference. You don’t have to overhaul your entire wardrobe to contribute to positive change. Every conscious choice counts!
Interviewer: Thank you, Emma! This has been such an enlightening discussion. We appreciate your time and passion for sustainable fashion!
Emma Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s been a joy to share my journey. Let’s keep the conversation going about sustainability!
This format creates an engaging flow that allows for insights into the interviewee’s experiences, challenges, and vision, while keeping the audience interested.