A strategic investment for two promising brands
This investment is the result of the excellence demonstrated by both brands during the CANEX WKND 2024where Vanhu Vamwe took first place and The Rad Black Kids third. These two companies embody the ability of African fashion to transform itself into a profitable, export-oriented sector.
Vanhu Vamweco-founded by Zimbabweans Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri and Simba Nyawiri, is a sustainable luxury brand that combines traditional craftsmanship with bold storytelling. With over 150 artisans, the brand is already present at 48 retailers in Africa, the USA, the UK and Asia, including prestigious platforms such as Net-A-Porter and Nordstrom. Generating 100% of its revenues in euros and dollars, Vanhu Vamwe demonstrates that African heritage can be a pillar for modern luxury markets.
The Rad Black Kidscreated by Thulani Ngazimbi, transforms Zimbabwean street culture into a streetwear lifestyle brand. In partnership with global retailers such as Macy’s and PacSunand with revenues in US dollars, the brand proves that diaspora stories can give rise to powerful and profitable international streetwear brands.
The role of Silverbacks Holdings and ImpactHER
For Ibrahim SagnaExecutive Chairman of Silverbacks Holdings, the partnership is a vote of confidence in African talent: “These brands reinforce our belief that African creativity is ready to deliver stunning products while building profitable businesses.
On his side, Efe Ukalapresident and founder of ImpactHER, stresses the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs and helping them build export-ready brands. Since its creation in 2017, ImpactHER has trained over 210,000 women entrepreneurs across Africa to develop successful businesses and become investment-ready.
CANEX, a catalyst for success
The investment by Silverbacks Holdings and ImpactHER is part of the CANEX of Afreximbank. Launched in 2020, CANEX’s mission is to finance and showcase Africa’s creative economy, including fashion, film, music and art. At the CANEX WKND 2024 pitch sessions, investors committed to injecting $350,000 into early-stage creative projects, confirming their essential role in unlocking capital for African entrepreneurs.
This new investment is further proof of the commitment of Silverbacks Holdings to supporting globally competitive African companies, which leverage technology and international distribution channels to expand beyond the continent.
Photos: 1 and 3: Vanhu Vamwe, 2: The Rad Black Kids
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