African Fabrics Australia
Meet the Stallholder is a series on the makers and creators at Byron and Lennox Markets, what makes them passionate about their products, and how to make a micro business a success.
Hi Megan & Samba!
Tell us about African Fabrics Australia.
African Fabrics Australia has the largest range of African textiles in Australia. We design and create our own exclusive range of clothes, accessories and batik fabrics. With a focus on sustainability through the use of predominantly natural materials and handmade items. We work side by side with talented artisans all across Africa. Together we grow our businesses. We always pay fair prices and ensure that it is more than just a business transaction but a mutually beneficial journey of growth.
What do you love about the markets?
We love being out in the local community making connections with people we may have never cross paths with otherwise. Or bumping into friends we didn’t have plans to catch up with. It is an uplifting experience being out in nature and feeling connected to the land and to the people. And we really love the location of the market.
What is it like to be part of the markets community?
The Community Markets is such a great way to get to know and feel like a valuable part of the community, it has been a great way for Samba to both learn and practice his english. And for me to be out in nature with the kids and what better location than along the foreshore of sunny Byron Bay. Over time we have built genuine friendships with other stallholders and regular customers.
What makes you passionate about African textiles?
We started this business as a way to do what we love 'textiles' from home, while bringing up our children. It gives us the opportunity to maintain a strong connection with Samba’s Senegalese culture. As well as continue our love of travel and experience the world, sourcing new products and making new connections with artisans and small business owners throughout Africa.
How have the markets supported you?
Being an online business without the markets we just wouldn’t have the exposure that we do today. Being online is great and offers flexibility but it really is the balance that the markets bring, that has turned our business into what it is today we are really proud to work and live on Bundjalung country and be a part of the vibrant local community market. One that tourists flock to year after year and with it much needed national and international exposure.
We appreciate the opportunity the community markets have given us to really grow our business since 2016.
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