Genet Kebede was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. From a young age, she loved fashion and the rich Ethiopian textiles she found in her culture, yet she was also inspired by other countries, specifically Italy’s rich design heritage. In order to pursue her dreams, Genet took the opportunity to study fashion design and garment construction in Argentina, and then in Italy.
Genet always knew she would return to her native homeland. After living through significant political disruptions that led to famine in Ethiopia during her childhood, Genet believed she had an opportunity to contribute and help her country. She wanted to help the many people, particularly women, she saw in difficult circumstances in her city. She also wanted to share the beauty of her country’s rich weaving traditions with the world. Through her own fashion label as an Ethiopian fashion designer, Genet saw an opportunity to do both.
In 1992, Paradise Fashion was born. Since founding the label, Genet has been celebrating the cultural tradition of Ethiopian handweaving techniques with a contemporary design aesthetic. Another important component of her business is providing sustainable employment to her largely female team.
As a pioneer in Ethiopian fashion, Genet has built a brand that supports the livelihood of a network of over 55 Ethiopian women who work diligently to preserve and enhance the art of Ethiopia’s rich textile heritage.
