VMI began during my first year of University as an International Relations student. I have always been fascinated with the social and political instability of Africa and the worlds societal structures. As a person I want to help combat poverty throughout the world and there would be no better place to start than in my Motherland, Africa.

Back in 2012 I created VMI as a social platform to inspire and generate change through fashion. I invested my own money and began making handmade earrings and bracelets. Now in 2014 I now have a team of four and together we create and source handmade and high quality African and Afro-centric jewellery and accessories.

The aim is to become a mainstream brand born from a love of all things African. At present VMI designs and custom designs a range of unique jewellery and clothes inspired by all regions of Africa. Independently I have held stalls around the UK and have sold on popular sites such as DEPOP and Ebay. With this being said; one of our images was used on DEPOP's homepage on our first week releasing VMI products. Since then I have created a website through funds raised from DEPOP and my own investment of £300. VMI aims to launch its official website in September and have already established relationships with universities across the UK to help advertise, promote and market VMI goods. We have received a overwhelming reception and have been invited to cultural events in the coming months. This is exceptionally good; as it allows us to display and receive feedback from our target audience, (18-25 year olds).

We plan to use the funds raised to organize a group of designers to create VMI designs. This will be done by flying to Ghana where we have already established working relationship with a female entrepreneur named Clara. My time there will be used to buy materials and source other designers who are able to join the team to create jewellery, accessories clothing and homewear such as (cushions, beanbags). We want to bring local African artistry to the international market. This does not only provide exposure to Africans but it will allow them the same opportunities in the global fashion industry. This would be key step in raising the standard of living throughout Africa.