lemlem Obtains B Corp™ Certification
The Made In Africa brand, founded by model Liya Kebede can be found in 150 retailers…
Nineteen years ago, Ethiopian fashion model, actress, and maternal health advocate Liya Kebede founded lemlem, adding fashion designer to her prestigious resume. The resort brand of swimwear it totally ethical and comprised of weaved products, made by local Ethiopian artisans. This week the brand announced that it reached Certified B Corporation™ status.
Obtaining B Corp™ is not an easy feat. In fact, it’s a rigorous process awarded to companies that have to meet high standards for social and environmental impact, accountability, and transparency to stakeholders, employees, suppliers, partners, and clients. Those who reach this level undergo ongoing evaluation, so it’s a commitment on a brand’s side that requires the highest levels of commitment.
Liya Kebede with Ethiopia artisans | Photo provided by lemlem
Discovered by a film director, Liya found success as a model in France and later the US. Her breakthrough moment came when then Gucci creative director Tom Ford hired her as a model for their AW00 runway show. Having appeared on the cover of Vogue 20 times, Liya has also graced the cover of i-D, and done campaigns for Gap, Saint Laurent, Tommy Hilfiger, Dolce&Gabbana and more. But she found even more purpose with lemlem, when it was launched in 2007.
The lemlem Poppy Elina Caftan | Photo provided by lemlem
The brand takes its name from the Amharic language, meaning “to bloom.” The brand was founded to empower local Ethiopian weavers by providing jobs to her native land. And, celebrate Made in Africa, as well as to preserve their ancient craftsmanship. Today the brand is sold in 150+ retail stores, and has expanded its presence in Kenya with ready-to-wear and Morocco with swimwear. “From the very beginning, the brand has been rooted in craftsmanship, community, and purpose and we have continued expanding our mission, while taking a holistic approach to responsible growth - caring for governance, the environment, and the communities we work with,” explains the brand in announcement notes.
Now with their B Corp certification, the brand embraces this next step, yet see it a momentous honor during Black History Month. “It inspires us to keep learning, improving, and building a company that uplifts people and protects the planet at every step. We are deeply grateful to the incredible people behind the brand, our team, artisans, suppliers, retail partners and the lemlem community for believing in our vision and helping us to continue to bloom in ways that truly matter.”
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