Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ In the decade since founding Labrum London, Foday Dumbuya has navigated a remarkable journey filled with career highs and profound achievements. From accepting the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design to captivating audiences with his culturally rich fashion presentations, Dumbuya has firmly established himself as a luminary in the fashion landscape.
For Dumbuya, fashion serves as a powerful means of connecting with his West African heritage. Through his label’s slogan, “Designed By An Immigrant,” he proudly champions his immigrant background, infusing his designs with stories and influences from Sierra Leone. This authenticity has resonated strongly with customers, earning Labrum London recognition from prominent retailers like Browns and Selfridges, as well as admiration from celebrities like Idris Elba and Cat Burns.
Dumbuya’s commitment to storytelling was evident in his AW23 show, which delved into the realities of immigration, and his SS24 collection, “Nomoli Odyssey,” which celebrated the origins of artefacts in Sierra Leone. Collaborations with figures like former England striker Ian Wright further enriched his narrative, integrating public figures while celebrating African heritage.
Despite his current success, Dumbuya’s journey to the top of the fashion world was not without its challenges. Born in Sierra Leone and later relocating to London, he defied conventional expectations to pursue his passion for fashion design. Inspired by trailblazers like Ozwald Boateng, he forged his path, eventually honing his craft at institutions like Nottingham Trent and the London College of Fashion before gaining valuable experience at Nike.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Dumbuya’s career, allowing him to amplify West African culture and narratives on global platforms. From designing Sierra Leone’s Olympics kit to partnering with Netflix and Guinness, each collaboration reflects his commitment to weaving together the threads of Labrum London’s identity.
Looking ahead, Dumbuya remains dedicated to his mission of celebrating migration and cultural diversity through fashion. With upcoming collections that explore themes of human movement and migration, he continues to push boundaries and redefine menswear with his vibrant, culturally infused designs. As he embarks on the next phase of his journey, Dumbuya’s vision and creativity promise to leave an indelible mark on the fashion industry.
