GIVING BACK WITH PANAFRICA

PANAFRICA, a brand renowned for its ethical values and distinct style philosophy, their iconic printed trainers have become an international conversation starter – working with textile manufacturers across Africa to bring you statement footwear in a wide variety of colourful waxed cotton fabrics. A unique concept with a different business model, unlike other companies, each pair is created using traditional construction techniques – reflecting an ethical and sustainable footprint.

Since PANAFRICA’s inception in 2015, brand founders Hugues & Vulfran have been committed to creating planet-friendly and fair trade footwear – ensuring their values are woven into each pair…

Fair manufacturing methods

It was after a trip to Africa that Hugues returned to France with the idea to turn traditional wax fabric into a collection of footwear, entitled PANAFRICA. But, that didn’t mean using any old fabric; from the very first pair, the team have sourced the highest quality Uniwax fabric from the Ivory Coast, allowing for the finest quality, local knowledge and unique patterns that represent the region in full colour.

Working closely with local charities, PANAFRICA is a proud supporter of Afrika Tiss. Based in Ouagadougou, this outreach centre offers training on weaving and dyeing techniques – allowing craftswomen to share and learn new skills, as well as participating in the brand’s high-quality cotton products.

The leather used in PANAFRICA footwear is crafted using a semi-vegetable tanning method. The brand is currently taking steps to replace animal leather with vegetable-based substitutes.

Protecting workers’ rights

PANAFRICA trainers are manufactured in Casablanca, Morocco. The factory adheres to strict labour laws laid out by the ILO (International Labour Organisation) - guaranteeing a code of social responsibility and ensuring that PANAFRICA sneakers are manufactured in compliance with workers’ rights. Every employee receives a work contract and a guaranteed minimum wage, paid holidays, health cover, regular job training and high-quality management.

In order to support the development of the factory and guarantee long-term employment for all of its workers, PANAFRICA has committed to producing one collection every six months. This enables the team to avoid the pitfalls of mass production over short periods and ensures every worker on-the-job training specific to the PANAFRICA chain of production, improving working conditions and a workload spaced out over a longer period of time.

#walkforschool programme

Ensuring that the advantages of local manufacturing affect not just the workers, but the wider community, PANAFRICA supports projects for access to education and job training in Africa. For each pair of sneakers bought, PANAFRICA donates 10% of its profit to various associations. Paying particular attention to the partners they use, each association is chosen for its local context, ability to instigate global change and possibility to foster long term relationships between the brand and charity.

STYLE & ORIGINALITY

PANAFRICA is renowned for its distinct sense of style. A reflection of the founder’s travels through Africa, each pair of trainers showcases the colours, memories and souvenirs of different parts of the continent – inspiring a globetrotting approach to dressing.

A canvas for creativity, each pair of trainers celebrates the colours of the country – showcasing traditional wax fabrics from across Africa. With each pattern a signature for the city they represent, African culture is brought to life – blending beautiful patterns and electrifying shades with a contemporary silhouette, constructed on a minimalist white rubber sole. A design concept in a constant state of evolution, current collections blend rich suede panelling in shades of ochre, yellow & blue, giving an extra dimension to each pair.

Representing an original design concept and a strong identity, footwear from PANAFRICA adds a statement edge to any outfit. Offering a vibrant look that’s packed with character, their footwear is designed to enliven everyday dressing – turning wardrobe basics into an opportunity to be creative. Leaders in a growing authentic African movement, look to clothing that reflects the same proud cross-continental vibe – teaming printed footwear with colourful separates, too.

The SS19 collection draws influence from the Ivory Coast – capturing its light, energetic and magical mood. Working with a selection of vibrant printed wax cotton fabrics and textural suede, each piece is made to make you smile – offering unconventional colour combinations and delicate motifs. Continuing to reinvent their original idea via new colourways, sophisticated silhouettes and an iconic sense of style, PANAFRICA pays tribute to the unique nature of African culture, freedom and adventure.

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