About Zeraf Fashion
Where tradition meets innovation, and every stitch tells a story of empowerment
Our Story
Zeraf Fashion was founded with a simple yet powerful vision: to create handcrafted designer clothing that celebrates individuality and craftsmanship. The name "Zeraf" is a powerful Ethiopian word embodying resilience, triumph, and winning, reflecting our brand's spirit and the strength we aim to inspire in every individual who wears our designs.
Our journey began when our founder, Beza Mengistu, a passionate designer with roots in traditional craftsmanship, decided to bridge the gap between heritage techniques and contemporary fashion. With a background in marketing and a deep connection to Ethiopian culture, she saw an opportunity to create something more than just clothing—a movement that would empower women and celebrate artisanal excellence.
What started as a vision has grown into a beloved brand known for its attention to detail, commitment to quality, and dedication to social impact. Every piece in our collection is handcrafted by skilled Ethiopian artisans, primarily women, who take pride in their work and bring generations of expertise to each creation.
Our Mission
To empower Ethiopian women through sustainable fashion by creating economic opportunities, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and building a bridge between heritage and contemporary design.
We are committed to ethical practices and sustainable materials, ensuring our fashion leaves a positive impact on both people and the planet. Every purchase directly supports women artisans and their families, creating ripple effects throughout their communities.
Our Vision
To become a leading voice in ethical African fashion, demonstrating that women can be rooted in traditions while simultaneously being innovative entrepreneurs—a political and cultural act that challenges prejudices and celebrates women's essential contributions to society.
We envision a world where fashion speaks of identity and freedom, made of fabrics and dreams, where beauty coincides with the dignity of work and respect for culture.
Our Values
Craftsmanship
We believe in the power of human hands. Each Zeraf piece is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their work, bringing generations of expertise and passion to every creation.
Sustainability
We're committed to ethical practices and sustainable materials, ensuring our fashion leaves a positive impact on both people and the planet. Every decision is made with future generations in mind.
Empowerment
We celebrate uniqueness and empower women through fair wages, skills development, and leadership opportunities. Our success is measured by the positive impact we create in our artisans' lives.
Cultural Heritage
We honor and preserve Ethiopian traditions while creating contemporary designs. Our work bridges ancient wisdom with modern innovation, celebrating our rich cultural tapestry.
Transparency
We believe in honest, open relationships with our customers and artisans. Every piece comes with a story, and we're proud to share the journey from conception to creation.
Community
We're building more than a brand—we're fostering a global community of conscious consumers and talented artisans united by shared values and mutual respect.
Our Impact
Through our partnership with AICS (Italian Agency for Development Cooperation) and UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization), we're creating tangible change in Ethiopian communities.
Behind these numbers are real stories of women and young people who have found in design and manufacturing an opportunity for economic independence, skill development, and self-affirmation.
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Meet Our Founder
Beza Mengistu
Beza Mengistu is the visionary founder and creative director behind Zeraf Fashion. With a background in marketing and a deep passion for Ethiopian culture, she has dedicated her career to empowering women through sustainable fashion.
Featured in Vogue Italia and showcased at international events like CODEWAY 25 in Rome, Beza's work has gained recognition as a powerful example of how fashion can be a force for social change.
"My goal is not just to create beautiful clothes, but to build a future where women are respected and in control of their own destiny. Every piece we create is a step toward that vision."Read Her Story
Our Creative Hub
Based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's vibrant capital, our creative hub is where tradition meets innovation. We work within a network of artisanal and manufacturing centers including EIFCCOS, LOMI, and urban clusters in Merkato and Kirkos.
These spaces are more than production facilities—they're communities where women learn new skills, share knowledge, and build economic independence. Our hub features modern equipment alongside traditional techniques, creating an environment where ancient wisdom meets contemporary innovation.
Here, innovation, craftsmanship, and youth entrepreneurship merge in a place of vision, where Ethiopian women are redefining the future of African fashion.
Modern Equipment
State-of-the-art tools combined with traditional methods
Skills Training
Continuous education and professional development
Recognition & Press
August 2024
Featured article highlighting Zeraf's mission to empower women through sustainable fashion and bridge tradition with modernity.
Rome, Italy
Showcased at the international cooperation fair, presenting ethical fashion partnerships between Africa and Italy.
Join Our Journey
Every purchase supports Ethiopian women artisans and helps build a more equitable and sustainable fashion industry. Together, we can create lasting change.