Anena Sharon is a woman of many talents. With a degree in Development Studies and a certificate in Solution Focused Coaching, she possesses a deep understanding of community development and individual empowerment. After working in community development for three years and then transitioning to an administrative role for five, Sharon decided to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams. She’s now building her clothing brand, Ajura.But it’s through her work with Ajura that Sharon’s passion for storytelling and her commitment to sustainable fashion truly shine.
Sharon‘s journey into the world of fashion began in 2019, but it was in 2020 that her vision for Ajura crystallized. A visit to a group of Viennese women who were creatively upcycling second-hand clothes using natural materials sparked an idea. She saw the potential to not only create beautiful clothing but also to tell powerful African stories through fashion. This inspiration became the foundation of Ajura, a brand that uses locally sourced resources to create designs that reflect the rich tapestry of Ugandan cultures.
Every piece created by Ajura has a story to tell. Sharon Anena and her team work closely with communities, learning about their traditions, their artistry, and their experiences. These narratives are then woven into the fabric of their designs, creating garments that are not just fashionable but also deeply meaningful. Each pattern, each color choice, each stitch, is a testament to the community that inspired it. Ajura’s clothing becomes a canvas for sharing these stories with the world, connecting wearers to the vibrant cultures of Africa.
Annually,Sharon Anena hosts a fashion show to both display her newest collection and also celebrate the African heritage. This is an opportunity for her supporters to witness the unveiling of the next year’s designs and to be the first to acquire these unique pieces. The show is a culmination of the year’s work, a showcase of the stories collected and the artistry employed. It’s a moment to connect with the community, to share the inspiration behind the designs, and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage that informs Ajura’s work.
While Sharon Anena hasn’t yet collaborated with international designers, it’s something she looks forward to in the future. She recognizes the value of cross-cultural exchange and the potential for collaboration to expand Ajura’s reach and impact. She’s open to new perspectives and eager to learn from other designers who share her passion for storytelling and sustainable fashion.
Sharon and her team utilize natural materials like leaves, bark, and flowers to create unique prints on their fabrics. They also employ traditional techniques like drawing and painting to create lively animations on their designs. This commitment to using natural resources and time-honored methods not only creates beautiful and original pieces but also minimizes environmental impact.
Sharon’s commitment to giving back to the community is as strong as her dedication to sustainable fashion. She regularly trains young girls and single mothers in garment cutting, providing them with valuable skills that can lead to economic independence. She’s also offered employment to some of the women she’s trained, further empowering them to build a better future for themselves and their families. While she’s faced challenges with community commitment, she remains dedicated to her mission of empowering women and fostering economic growth within her community.
Sharon Anena is excited about the future of the Ugandan fashion industry. She sees a growing number of designers emerging and is particularly inspired by those who are embracing sustainable practices. She believes that this focus on sustainability will drive innovation and push designers to create even more beautiful and impactful pieces. She’s eager to see the creativity that comes from this movement and is committed to continuing to raise the bar for herself and her brand.
She recognizes that the Ugandan fashion industry is vibrant but also competitive. She believes that creativity and a strong social media presence are essential for success in this dynamic landscape. She sees the industry as a space where designers must constantly evolve and innovate to stay ahead of the curve. She’s committed to continuing to learn and grow, pushing the boundaries of her creativity and expanding her reach through strategic use of social media.
Sharon’s approach to design is deeply personal and rooted in her connection to nature and culture. She uses these elements to create unique patterns on her fabrics, transforming them into wearable works of art. Her designs are not just clothes; they’re expressions of her creativity, her values, and her commitment to sharing African stories with the world.
Source: Trillion Looks
