On May 1, 2025, Fashion-Enter Ltd (FEL) in Haringey, North London, welcomed a delegation from the Or Foundation—a Ghanaian non-profit dedicated to sustainable fashion and social justice. The group, comprising Kantamanto Market designers, tailors, upcyclers, retailers, and former kayayei, visited FEL’s leading-status factory to explore sustainable garment manufacturing practices and exchange knowledge on circular fashion.
The visit was led by FEL CEO Jenny Holloway and FEL Director Caroline Ash, the pair highlighted the delegation’s resilience following a devastating fire that destroyed much of the Kantamanto Market in January 2025. Despite the setback, the group remained eager to learn about sustainable production processes. Jenny emphasised the importance of such exchanges in building global solidarity and ethical practices within the fashion industry.
Kantamanto Market, located in Accra, Ghana, is the largest secondhand clothing market in West Africa, receiving approximately 15 million garments weekly. However, the market faces significant sustainability challenges, with around 40% of these garments ending up as waste. The Or Foundation has been instrumental in supporting the market’s recovery and promoting sustainable business models.
FEL an award-winning social enterprise known for its ethical garment manufacturing operates a fully-equipped factory and Fashion Technology Academy, offering training in garment manufacturing, pattern cutting, and tailoring. FEL collaborates with major brands like N Brown, Patagonia and Marks & Spencer and provides apprenticeships and qualifications at various levels.
The visit allowed the Kantamanto delegation to observe FEL’s production processes, which incorporates repair, reprocessing, and sustainable innovation. The delegation expressed interest in adopting similar practices to enhance the sustainability of their operations in Ghana.
In response to the January fire, The Or Foundation committed $1 million to emergency relief efforts, providing immediate assistance to over 9,000 individuals affected by the disaster. The foundation is also working on phase three of its market recovery plan, which includes installing fire lanes and building a new upcycling studio in the market, equipped with proper tools and technology.
Feedback from the delegation included…
“This was a good presentation; I have learned other, quicker ways.”
“I gained a good understanding of garment production.”
“I learned from a social enterprise in action within manufacturing and about advanced tech applied to textile manufacturing.”
“I have learned a lot and I am planning to become a fashionista. Thank you very much, keep up the good work.”
The visit marks a significant step toward fostering international collaboration in sustainable fashion. By sharing knowledge and resources, organisations like FEL and The Or Foundation are paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry. The Kantamanto delegation’s experience underscores the importance of cross-cultural exchange in addressing global challenges in fashion sustainability.