The House of YAWS
A pioneering force taking Gambian fashion to international heights through total commitment to standards, innovation, and cultural revival.
Born From Heritage, Driven By Revolution
Initially, YAWS drew inspiration from her parents, cultural heritage, and the vibrant life around her. Her mother was a renowned seamstress known for exceptional quality and organized fashion showcases in the late 80s and 90s to promote beauty and style.
Determined to pursue a formal path in design at a time when fashion was not yet recognized as a mainstream career in The Gambia, Yawa traveled to England and graduated with a Diploma in Fashion and Décor.
In 2007, the YAWS brand was officially founded. Connecting deep cultural roots with contemporary geometry, she set out to create a global Contemporary Afro-Ethnic revolution.
"Nature was my first love and the way of life was my motivation."
#Afrorevolution • #Fashion4cancerMilestones & Stages
From organizing early local fashion shows to representing West Africa across Europe, America, and Asia.
The Birth of YAWS
The YAWS brand was founded by Yawa Conateh following her formal education in England, setting out to introduce distinct creative styles to the Gambian fashion industry.
Young Group of Fashionistas Show
Organized the first Young Group of Fashionistas fashion show in The Gambia, empowering a new generation of local design talent.
USA IVLP Program
Selected by the US Embassy for the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), representing emerging African creative leaders in the United States.
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin
Attended Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin courtesy of the German Embassy, expanding the brand's international European network.
10th Year Anniversary Gala
Celebrated a decade of Afro-Ethnic excellence with an international runway gala inviting 9 global fashion designers to The Gambia.
Most Impactful Young Entrepreneur
Honored with the Most Impactful Young Entrepreneur award for leading creative industry transformation in West Africa.
Fashion Designer of the Year
Awarded Fashion Designer of the Year consecutively in 2021 and 2022 alongside official national Investment Gambia Recognition in Fashion.
Lagos Concept Expansion
Launched commercial retail distribution in Nigeria through premier luxury stockist @Zinkata Concept Store.
Togo Concept Store & New Delhi Fair
Expanded retail stockists to @FIMO in Lomé, Togo, and showcased collections at the International Trade Fair in New Delhi, India.
A Cultural Ambassador For The Continent
Courtesy of invitations from various world embassies including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom (in collaboration with the International Trade Centre), and India, YAWS has showcased the strength of African creative entrepreneurship across the globe.