For her 2024 Autumn-Winter collection, Bimbia 1, and the follow-up Bimbia 2 in the September’s Summer-Spring season, Kibonen draws deeply from history and heritage. Inspired by the Door of No Return in Cameroon, Bimbia 1 and 2 transcend fashion to become a poignant narrative woven with resilience and sacrifice.
This collection is a tribute to the haunting echoes of the transatlantic slave trade, embodying themes of cultural identity and endurance. The designs blend African artistry with symbolic motifs—like Toghu patterns representing strength and unity—crafted in fabrics that juxtapose bold textures with delicate detailing. The public has lauded Bimbia for its cultural authenticity and emotional depth, with reviewers highlighting Kibonen’s ability to tell powerful stories through clothing. Bimbia challenges wearers and audiences to reflect on history while celebrating the rich tapestry of African heritage.
Kibonen Nfi is a narrative weaver with the ability to connect with audiences through her art, transforming cultural narratives into powerful fashion statements. With her inspiration stemming from her Cameroonian heritage, West African fabrics, and New York’s vibrant fashion scene, Kibonen has redefined the fashion landscape. She pioneered the revolution of Cameroon’s traditional Toghu attire into contemporary masterpieces that echo African stories and history. Her journey is marked by impeccable craftsmanship and a fusion of cultures, making bold statements through fashion.
Kibonen’s influence extends far beyond the runway. Her work has been celebrated in Vogue, Vogue Italia, Cosmopolitan, Essence, Elle, Humans of New York, Google Arts and Culture, The New African Woman, and Forbes Africa. As a proud ambassador of Cameroonian heritage, she has showcased her designs at iconic platforms such as the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange at Buckingham Palace and shared her insights at leading institutions, including NYU, Columbia, Wharton, and Cornell Universities.
In 2015, she founded Made in Cameroon, a brand that championed local craftsmanship. This mission expanded in 2020 when she co-founded the Cameroon Clothing Company, fostering economic growth and providing employment opportunities in her community. Through her latest initiative -the Kibonen Sustainable Creative Hub- she combines training, development and community empowerment in a vertically integrated model.
As a trailblazer in fashion advocacy, Kibonen co-founded the African Fashion Council and contributes her expertise as a member of the Afreximbank Creative Africa Advisory Group. Her journey is a testament to her commitment to using fashion as a force for cultural preservation and economic development.
Kibonen’s work stands as a beacon of advocacy and empowerment. Through Bimbia and her other initiatives, she has solidified her position as more than a designer; she is a visionary storyteller. Her collections transcend fashion, serving as profound narratives that advocate for cultural preservation and community development. By weaving the African story into her designs, she not only celebrates her heritage but also empowers marginalized communities, creating a legacy that inspires generations to come. Kibonen proves that fashion can be a powerful tool for advocacy, education, and change.
