#RenéeNeblett

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Reflection on Renée Neblett Talk

Reflections on “Building Kokrobritey” 

Renée Neblett’s talk on her work and mission with the Kokrobritey Institute was deeply moving. As someone who is passionate about sustainability and its connection with the arts, I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity to learn about eco-conscious art and design initiatives. I am a current fashion design student at MassArt, entering my final year. My approach to my studies has been hyper-focused on sustainable alternatives to the negative global impact of the fashion industry. I know that Ghana has been overwhelmingly impacted by imported second hand garments and textile waste, so I was curious to learn what the Kokrobitey Institute is doing to alleviate this issue. 

The talk was eye-opening. Ms. Neblett has built an innovative educational program that trains community members, amplifies their creativity, lifts up local traditions, cherishes ancestral knowledge, and prepares the next generation of Ghanaian creators and changemakers. Kokrobitey takes trash out of the streets and landfills and transforms it into furniture, clothing, jewelry, home decor, and more. Advertisement banners become satchels and pouches, glass bottles become earrings and construction supplements, denim jeans become tapestries and furniture upholstery, and much more. With a sewing studio, a glass kiln, a woodworking shop, a medicinal and nutritional garden, all in a self-constructed building, Kokrobitey is an innovative example of holistic environmental sustainability, such that we should all strive to achieve within our own communities. 

I was deeply inspired by this talk and the discussion afterwards. I look forward to learning much more about the Kokrobritey Institute and how I may someday be able to transform my vision for a cleaner, more just fashion industry into a broader positive movement to protect the environment and the culture that kept us near it.

— Heily Rivas, Fashion Design ‘24 – CACP Radical Welcomer/Office Assistant

Please check out the links below to learn about Renée and the African Renaissance. Other videos and information are available by visiting the Kokrobitey Institute website.African Renaissance. Other

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https://twyg.co.za/renee-neblett-on-why-we-need-an-african-renaissance-in-fashion/#:~:text=Social%20activist%20and%20founder%20of,Awards%20on%2017%20November%202022.