“A program like AGYLE is crucial for fostering sustainable economic cooperation and innovation between Africa and Germany. By bringing together young leaders, AGYLE facilitates interactions that spark innovative ideas and projects. These types of engagements lay a strong foundation for long-term business networking and collaboration, empowering emerging leaders to address global challenges and drive the transition to sustainable practices. This experience ensures participants are at the forefront of critical economic trends, positioning them to lead impactful change in their respective industries.“
Melat Terefe is the Founder and Creative Director of DolMel Manufacturing PLC, an Ethiopian fashion brand revolutionizing the ancient tradition of hand-weaving by integrating it into the 21st century. She achieves this by using high-tech digital reactive printing on hand-woven cotton fabric, a pioneering approach in the textile and fashion industry. Under her leadership, DolMel's innovative products are the first of their kind, merging traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
Melat’s goal is to create simple, chic, and bohemian-inspired clothing that celebrates and expresses one's unique identity, perfectly reflecting the wearer's personality. Her designs are characterized by an edgy vintage look, enhanced with vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
Her commitment extends beyond fashion; Melat aims to preserve Ethiopian heritage by safeguarding the art of traditional hand-weaving through innovation. She strives to ensure this cherished craft thrives into the future without losing its handcrafted essence, blending the old with the new, seamlessly and beautifully.
With a lifelong passion for fashion and design, Melat is dedicated to making a significant impact on the textile and fashion industry while contributing to Ethiopia's economic development. DolMel aims to grow the traditional Ethiopian textile industry by partnering with weavers and designers, enabling and empowering them to use innovation to gain greater recognition globally."
