Turning Locals into the Next Sustainable Fashion Designers in Kenya: Maisha by Nisria

When Nur M'Nasria, a TV film producer, came to Kenya in 2015 to document slum life, she couldn't have imagined how profoundly that journey would alter her path. Six years later, in 2021, she returned to Kenya with a new purpose: to establish a non-profit fashion and design studio that creates unique, handmade clothes from upcycled materials.

A Collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

In a recent interview, Nur M'Nasria shared insights into what drew her back to Kenya and the inspiration behind her innovative venture, Maisha by Nisria.

Nur M'Nasria the Co-founder of  Maisha by Nisria community organization based in Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

The Heart of Maisha's Designs

"Every Maisha design is inspired by true stories and events," M'Nasria explains. She cites their HAYAT collection as an example, born from the memory of her friend Randah, who unexpectedly passed away in September. Randah had been instrumental in launching Maisha, investing in the necessary machinery and tools. Another poignant collection pays tribute to the young lost boys of South Sudan, forced into warfare at tender ages. This collection, a collaboration with The Nile Lot and Shak the Label, exemplifies Maisha's commitment to storytelling through fashion.

 A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

Embracing Local Craftsmanship

When asked about her favorite Kenyan pieces, M'Nasria doesn't hesitate: "I love Kenyan jewelry, whether it's beads or brass." This appreciation for local craftsmanship is evident in Maisha's approach to fashion design and production.

Fashion designers inside the Maisha by Nisria's workshop [Photo Credit: MN]

The Future of Fashion

M'Nasria believes that consumer awareness is shifting. "People are slowly becoming more concerned about the behind-the-scenes of how their garments are made," she observes. She predicts a rise in locally handmade, artisanal garments, which she believes will be preferred over fast fashion due to growing awareness of its negative cultural and environmental impact.

The team from Maisha by Nisria community organization based in Kenya during the Nairobi Design Week 2024 [Photo Credit: MN]

Beyond Fashion: Personal Growth and Exploration

M'Nasria's interests extend beyond the realm of fashion. An avid consumer of audiobooks and podcasts, she's currently exploring various modalities of healing traumas. This holistic approach to personal growth likely influences her compassionate business model.

A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

A Love for Kenya

While her work takes her across Kenya, M'Nasria has a soft spot for Nakuru. "I love the nature of Nakuru and how it is the perfect city yet a getaway destination," she shares, highlighting the diverse landscapes that inspire her work.

Nur M'Nasria the Co-founder of  Maisha by Nisria with her team in Nakuru- Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

Sustainability at the Core

During the Nairobi Design Week 2024, Maisha's project manager, Valentine Muthoni, elaborated on the studio's commitment to sustainability. "In terms of fashion sustainability, for us, it's steeped in slow fashion," Muthoni explains. "Every outfit you see here is one of a kind. We don't duplicate outfits compared to what organizations do in fast fashion."

Muthoni emphasizes their use of second-hand fabrics and textiles. "Everything here is upcycled from either waste textiles or second-hand fabrics," she states, underscoring Maisha's dedication to reducing waste and promoting circular fashion.

Maisha's project manager, Valentine Muthoni [Photo Credit: MN]

Community Impact and Empowerment

Maisha by Nisria isn't just about creating sustainable fashion; it's about empowering local communities. By turning locals into fashion designers, the studio provides valuable skills and employment opportunities. This approach not only supports economic development but also ensures that the designs are authentically rooted in Kenyan culture and experiences.

The studio's commitment to one-of-a-kind pieces not only promotes sustainability but also celebrates individuality. Each garment tells a unique story, connecting the wearer to the artisan and the inspiration behind the design.

 A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

A Growing Trend in Kenyan Fashion

Maisha by Nisria is part of a larger movement within Kenya's fashion industry. More designers are embracing sustainable practices, recognizing the urgent need to protect the environment while celebrating local craftsmanship and culture. This shift towards sustainable fashion in Kenya is multifaceted. It includes; Upcycling and recycling materials to reduce waste, embracing traditional techniques and materials, prioritizing fair labor practices and community development, and educating consumers about the impact of their fashion choices.

 A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

As the fashion industry in Kenya continues to grow, initiatives like Maisha by Nisria are setting a new standard. They demonstrate that fashion can be beautiful, meaningful, and responsible.

The story of Maisha by Nisria is more than just a tale of sustainable fashion. It's a narrative of cultural exchange, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship. As Nur M'Nasria and her team continue to create unique, story-driven pieces, they're not just designing clothes – they're crafting a new vision for the future of Kenyan fashion.

A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

In a world increasingly concerned with the environmental and social impact of consumer choices, Maisha by Nisria offers a compelling model. It shows how fashion can honor tradition, support communities, and protect the planet – all while producing stunning, one-of-a-kind garments that tell powerful stories.

 A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

 A collection made by Maisha by Nisria based in Nakuru, Kenya [Photo Credit: MN]

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