In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, one Kenyan designer is making waves on the international stage with his bold and innovative approach to fashion. Morgan Azedy, a fashion designer and stylist from Kisumu, Kenya, is turning discarded bed sheets and other overlooked materials into high-fashion masterpieces — and recently, his work earned a spotlight at Berlin Fashion Week.
A Vision Born in Kisumu
Morgan Azedy’s fashion journey began in 2020 when he enrolled at the Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology in Kisumu. There, he studied textiles, fashion, and design, laying the foundation for a career rooted in creativity and environmental awareness. Frustrated by the limitations of conventional fashion and inspired by a desire to be different, he founded his own label, Kenyan Raw.
Kenyan Raw isn’t just a brand — it’s a philosophy. Azedy’s collections are influenced by his own experiences, urban streetwear culture, and the community’s extensive heritage. Most importantly, his designs champion sustainability through the art of upcycling.
Transforming Waste into Wearable Art
Rather than sourcing new, expensive materials, Azedy turns to what others throw away. Old bed sheets, woolen blankets, and polyester garments become the raw materials for his collections. After being thoroughly cleaned and treated, these items are transformed into striking outfits — from leather-like vests and oversized pants to detailed utility pieces.
This practice not only reduces textile waste but also challenges traditional ideas of luxury. “Sustainability can be beautiful,” says Azedy. “I want people to see that fashion doesn’t need to be wasteful to be powerful.”
A Moment in Berlin
Azedy’s efforts reached a new peak in February 2025 when Kenyan Raw was featured in a pop-up event during Berlin Fashion Week. The event, which was held by Luku at the well-known Backhaus Projects, featured a collection called Janam, which means “Man of the Lake” and was a nod to his roots near Lake Victoria. The presentation was immersive and personal. The space was designed to resemble Azedy’s childhood bedroom, adding an emotional layer to the fashion on display. Garments were treated as art pieces, suspended like sculptures in the room. The event also included live DJ sets and a short film capturing Azedy’s creative journey, further immersing attendees in his world.
Redefining Luxury in Africa
The work of Morgan Azedy conveys a message rather than just fashion. He is part of a new generation of African designers who are reimagining what luxury means, placing sustainability, heritage, and identity at the heart of their creations. Azedy remains passionate and persistent despite obstacles like limited resource access and slow shifts in consumer mindset. He states, “I want to inspire other designers in Africa and around the world to look at waste in a different way.” “There is beauty in what we discard. We just have to see it.”
The Future of Kenyan Raw
With the success of his Berlin showcase and growing international recognition, the future looks bright for Morgan Azedy and Kenyan Raw. As the fashion industry continues to grapple with its environmental impact, voices like Azedy’s are not only refreshing — they are essential.
In every stitch and every upcycled sheet, Morgan Azedy is proving that fashion has the power to change the world — not just by what it wears, but by what it chooses to value.
