Beyond Fast Fashion: A New Model for the Industry
Friday 27 February, 12:30-13:30
Westside Building, Winchester School of Art, room W2115
The Social Impact Lab is delighted to welcome Winchester School of Art alumna Jo Maiden, founder of pioneering sustainable fashion manufacturer SOKO Kenya, for an exclusive talk with University of Southampton students.
Founded in 2009, SOKO Kenya was created with a bold vision: to offer the fashion industry a manufacturing model that prioritises both people and the environment. Today, producing for fashion brands across the globe it stands as a leading example of ethical, transparent, and sustainable fashion production.
At the heart of SOKO Kenya is a people-first approach. The company invests deeply in the skills and wellbeing of its team, ensuring all employees receive a living wage and fair remuneration that supports families to thrive. Beyond the factory, Jo and her team work with partners to deliver education, skills training, and female empowerment initiatives through theSOKO Community Trust and the Kujuwa Initiative.
Environmental responsibility is also central to SOKO Kenya’s work. From solar energy and rainwater harvesting to creative waste up-cycling, the factory is designed to minimise its footprint while maximising social and economic value.
In this talk, Jo will share her journey from WSA graduate to founder, reflecting on how fashion can be used as a force for good. She will discuss her commitment to ethical production, transparency, and long-term partnerships with brands working towards a more sustainable future.
If you’re passionate about sustainable design, social entrepreneurship, or the future of ethical fashion, this is a talk not to be missed.
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