I’m Sidikat Folami, a textile waste transformer proudly from Nigeria, where my journey into sustainable innovation began with a deep-seated passion for textile waste management. As a seasoned dressmaker and textile contractor with over 16 years of experience, I’ve always been attuned to the environmental impact of fashion waste. This concern led me to an innovation focused on fiberizing textile and garment waste, pioneering sustainable solutions in the Nigerian fashion industry.
Journey into the Sustainable Energy/Climate Sector
My foray into the sustainable climate sector was driven by a desire to address the alarming environmental footprint of textile waste. Witnessing the extensive waste generated by garment production and the limited recycling solutions available, I was inspired to innovate. My background in dressmaking, alteration services, and textile manufacturing provided a solid foundation to explore new ways to transform waste into valuable resources, aligning with principles of circular economy and sustainability.
Contribution to the Clean Energy Transition
Through our groundbreaking fiberization process, we are significantly reducing the environmental impact of textile waste disposal. By collecting waste from identified producers and converting discarded fabrics into usable fibers and raw materials, we promote resource efficiency and reduce the need for virgin materials in textile production. This approach contributes directly to mitigating carbon emissions and conserving energy associated with traditional textile manufacturing processes.
Challenges in Accessing Finance as a Woman Entrepreneur
Despite the demonstrable impact and integrity of our innovation, accessing finance as a woman entrepreneur in the sustainable energy sector has presented challenges. There’s a persistent bias where preference is sometimes given to male-led ventures, undermining the credibility and hard work of women entrepreneurs. Overcoming these barriers requires advocacy for equal opportunity, where women’s contributions and achievements are recognized on merit rather than gender.
Vision for Equal Access to Finance and Capital
Looking ahead, my vision is for a future where women entrepreneurs have equitable access to finance and capital based solely on their merit and potential. This requires systemic changes in how financing opportunities are allocated, fostering an environment where women can thrive through their innovation and hard work without bias or discrimination, and creating a support system for female founders to thrive.
Envisioning the Future Role of Women in Climate and Energy Tech
I see women playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of climate and energy tech. As more women enter and excel in these fields, diverse perspectives and innovative solutions will drive transformative change. Empowering women with equal opportunities in leadership, entrepreneurship, and investment will accelerate progress toward sustainable development goals.
Advice to Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs
To women aspiring to start their businesses in the sustainable energy and climate sectors, my advice is to stay resilient and persistent. Believe in the value of your ideas and innovations and seek mentorship and support from networks that champion diversity and inclusion. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and continue advocating for equal recognition of women’s contributions in these critical sectors.
Sidikat A. Folami, FabriThread-Cycle Initiative:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidikat-folami/
This interview is part of the Gender and Energy Compact Women in the Spotlight series.
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