Ethiopia

Lemelem is an Ethiopian-born label creating handwoven garments through a supply chain rooted in dignity.

Founded by supermodel and activist Liya Kedebe, the brand is built on the belief that fashion should do more than dress - it should uplift. Each piece is made in Africa by traditional weavers, many of whom were once at risk of losing their livelihoods.

"By employing traditional weavers, we're trying to break their cycle of poverty, while preservng the art of weaving…" - Liya Kebede

Lemlem demonstrates that economic justice and cultural preservation can be mutually beneficial. By investing in local communities and keeping production on the continent, the brand prioritises shared value over profit margins.

For OneThread, this reflects our Ubuntu-Driven Economy pillar—the idea that sustainability means rising together. That brands thrive not by extraction, but by connection.

Why we're featuring them: While not yet onboarded to OneThread, Lemlem embodies the kind of collective-first ethos we champion.

Part of our "Brands You Should Know" series.