PANGAIA x AIR-INK by Jenke Ahmed Tailly: Celebrating African Youth and Culture.

Stylist and creative director Jenke Ahmed Tailly unveiled a capsule collection in collaboration with PANGAIA, the global collective composed of scientists, technologists, and designers creating innovative tech and bio-engineered materials. Born in Ivory Coast, Jenke made a name for himself working with Beyoncé, Kanye West, and Naomi Campbell.

PANGAIA’s limited edition capsule is printed using AIR-INK® technology which turns air pollution particles into water-based black ink, preventing us from breathing toxic substances. “When I started working on the campaign concept, I thought about the amazing transformation process behind AIR-INK® and how carbon emissions are technically transformed into Ink,” Jenke said before explaining that he named this project after one of Maya Angelou’s verses in the famous poem ‘Still I Rise’.” The brand’s signature soft recycled-cotton hoodies, t-shirts, and track pants are available to purchase as well as a range of new styles, such as bucket hats, bags and jersey slippers.

The campaign, lensed in Lagos, Nigeria, arguably one of the African continent’s most vibrant and dynamic cities, is a breath of fresh air - no pun intended. It’s a celebration of African culture, youth, and talent. “It offers a mix of culture between traditionalism and modernism, with alternative cultures emerging— from music and art to fashion and further. For us, Lagos is key in empowering the African narrative forward.” Jenke enlisted musician Keziah Jones, and longtime collaborator and friend Naomi Campbell, both of whom star in the campaign alongside other talents. “Naomi is my forever muse. From the beginning, I thought about featuring her in the campaign as she has so much love for the continent and is one of its biggest supporters. Equally, her philanthropic work has brought so much positivity to the African narrative; she was the obvious choice for me. I am excited that she is part of the PANGAIA story as well.”

The capsule collection is signed by a new logo, inspired to Jenke by the infinity symbol, connecting everything in life. “It represents a potential of infinity rather than an infinite quantity. This is the best metaphor symbolizing the notion of interdependence of our humanity which is aligned with PANGAIA philosophy as a responsible brand - with this new generation of thinkers, leading the way to a better future for our planet.” At a time when sustainability is permeating the fashion industry, Jenke Ahmed Tailly offers clothes with not only meaning but also a purpose.