The East Africa Textile & Leather Week (EATLW) 2024, held at Sarit Expo Center in Nairobi, showcased the evolving fashion industry, highlighting the growing influence of Gen Z. A standout panel discussion, led by Saitoti Meitamei, CEO of Delight School of Fashion Design, explored how this tech-savvy, socially conscious generation is reshaping fashion trends and consumer behavior. The panel featured industry leaders including Ashok Sunny, Zia Bett, Wambui Mukenyi, and influencer Samantha Nyakoe, who shared insights on Gen Z’s impact.
Key takeaways revealed that Gen Z values personalization and individuality, often preferring bespoke or custom-made pieces over mass-produced items. They are digital natives who interact with brands primarily through social media and are conscious of ethical and sustainable practices. Influencers like Samantha Nyakoe play a pivotal role in guiding Gen Z’s purchasing decisions, making collaborations with trendsetters essential for brands seeking relevance. Panelists also emphasized the importance of blending timeless styles with contemporary trends to appeal to this generation’s preference for both classic and modern aesthetics.
Innovation and technology were highlighted as central to staying competitive in the Gen Z-driven market. From AI-driven fashion recommendations to virtual try-ons, fashion brands must integrate digital tools to meet evolving consumer expectations. The panel concluded that brands embracing these values—sustainability, personalization, influencer engagement, and technological innovation—are positioned for long-term success. EATLW 2024 demonstrated that Gen Z’s influence is reshaping fashion, offering opportunities for brands to connect authentically with a generation that values creativity, ethics, and digital engagement.