Même bête… Ltd. was established in 2009 by Creative Director Taribba do Nascimento. This made in St. Lucia brand produces unique pieces using Ethnic Prints mixed with leather. Mrs do Nascimento began designing bags 9 years ago while working in Ethiopia. She apprenticed under a young master leather smith and has since then honed her craft. The designer has also apprenticed in Florence Italy, the city reknowned for producing leather goods of the highest quality. meme bete relocated to St. Lucia in 2012 and has gained regional recognition for her work. même bête… is the winner of the 2015 Global Entrepreneurship Week design competition, winner of the St. Lucia Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the year award for 2016, and received an award for Innovation in Fashion from the Caribbean Style and Culture awards in Washington.
As the face of her own brand, do Nascimento believes that fashion as a movement is gaining a stronghold in the local economy, and constantly advocates for changes to ensure that local designers can thrive.
In this podcast episode Taribba shares with Jo-Ann her experiences of building her brand in St. Lucia and the challenges she has encountered and balancing this with building globally. Listen in! Can you share in Taribba’s experience?