BANZA July 2016 Issue | Page 36

H AU TE BASO , K IGA L I, R WANDA Haute Baso is an ethical Rwandan fashion brand designing high-quality local products inspired by Rwandan culture with a global twist. It was established in February 2014 when the two young, ambitious and talented Rwandan fashion designers, Candy Basomingera and Linda Mukangoga, merged their respective brands believing that “two heads are better than one.” Using their passion for fashion as a vehicle for positive change, they work towards advancing women and youth empowerment through training, mentorship programs and job creation. Determined to put Rwanda on the world fashion map, Haute Baso is helping create a thriving local fashion industry by unleashing the potential of Rwandan art and showing that Rwandan fashion is chic, contemporary and accessible. Working in collaboration with 52 local artisans who bring the brand’s modern, functional and innovative designs to life and provide all raw materials, Haute Baso’s stunning collections of globally-minded culturally inspired clothing, accessories and jewellery prove that Rwanda is a country full of talent, entrepreneurship, and creativity. This week, Haute Baso is represented at the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Silicon Valley. Watch this short video below to learn more about Haute Baso.