Sari For Change: Empowering Women & Driving Sustainable Fashion

Buhle Mbonambi

Rayana Edwards, the visionary behind Sari For Change, is weaving a powerful story of empowerment and sustainability. This South African social enterprise takes discarded saris, steeped in rich heritage, and transforms them into modern, wearable art.

But Sari For Change goes beyond fashion; it empowers unemployed women by equipping them with sewing skills and providing them with a livelihood.

We spoke to Rayana to delve into the brand's philosophy, the commitment to circularity, and the impact it's making on both women and the planet.

Sari For Change breathes new life into traditional saris. What sparked your journey of transforming them into modern pieces?

The sari's ability to drape effortlessly into a stunning garment has always fascinated me. As a young girl, I admired the vibrant colours and textures, and the women who wore them seemed to radiate abundance. Years later, living in Kenya, I began experimenting with saris, never imagining it would evolve into a project empowering women in South Africa.

Circularity is a cornerstone of your brand. How does it translate into your design process?

When a gently worn sari is donated, it signifies the intent to empower someone in need. This journey, from donor to upskilled artisan in the townships to the conscious consumer, exemplifies a circular economy in motion. We give new life to a garment, closing the loop and diverting it from landfills.

You spoke at COP28 last year about circularity's role in fashion. How can the industry become more sustainable?

Consumers need to understand the environmental impact of their purchases – the fabric, the manufacturing process, and the working conditions. By choosing consciously, we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint. The fashion industry has the power to influence buying patterns and promote ethical practices. At COP28, we explored collaboration with green organisations to develop sustainable fabrics and support innovative business models.

Collaboration with community artisans is central to your brand. How does this contribute to your collections and why is supporting these communities crucial?

We empower mothers to support their families. By teaching them to make bags, for example, we enable them to become self-sufficient contributors to the economy. This fosters a culture of design thinking, allowing them to solve problems within their communities. Empowered women empower women, creating a ripple effect.

What sets your garments apart in terms of sustainability and responsible fashion?

We encourage customers to consider the story behind each piece – how upcycling a cultural treasure empowers women and contributes to local manufacturing. Every garment is unique, crafted from a single sari, making it exclusive to the wearer.

How does your focus on circularity ensure each piece has a lasting impact on waste reduction?

Heritage and culture are timeless, but styling is key. Many of our jackets are reversible, offering versatility for different seasons. Our kimonos are perfect for both modest dressers and fashionistas. We design functional and season-less pieces – "one statement piece, a zillion ways to wear it."

What can we expect from Sari For Change in terms of future collections and expanding circular fashion?

Driven by market demand and impact, we're launching a menswear/non-binary range. As our focus is on heritage and culture, we're exploring indigenous crafts in Africa to create a fusion of cultures, highlighting evolving identities. Preservation and enhancement of culture are integral to our sustainable narrative. Downcycling is our next focus. With a zero-waste policy, we're exploring ways to repurpose fabric waste into soft furnishings like pillow fillers.

How can customers be part of the circular fashion movement by buying a Sari For Change piece? What are the lasting benefits?

Just as we pray over food, we can appreciate the energy and intention behind our clothing. Knowing that your purchase empowers a community creates a ripple effect. By being part of this movement, you contribute to a more conscious and connected world.