By Alieu Ceesay
In an era dominated by fast fashion’s fleeting trends, Youma Wally Ndong, a visionary from The Gambia, is weaving a different narrative of sustainability, empowerment, and timeless craftsmanship. As the founder and creative director of GamPlus Clothing, Ndong is not just designing clothes; she’s stitching together a global movement prioritizing ethics over excess.
Ndong’s journey began in 2000 when, as a young representative of The Gambia at the Millennium International Children’s Conference on the Environment, she embraced the theme “Leave It to Us.” The experience ignited a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship. “That moment made me acutely aware of our planet’s fragility,” Ndong told The African Times. “Fashion became my medium, and sustainability my message.” Her designs, crafted through recycling, upcycling, and using deadstock fabrics, reflect this ethos, transforming waste into wearable art.
With over a decade in the industry, Ndong’s resume is as vibrant as her creations. Her internship at Acne Studios in Sweden, where she honed her skills in quality control, taught her the value of durability and meticulous craftsmanship. “It wasn’t just about aesthetics,” she said. It was about ensuring quality at every stage.” This experience, along with her work in Senegal and leadership roles in Gambian creative institutions, shaped her approach to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
Back in the Gambia, Ndong is reimagining fashion by fusing local techniques with global design thinking. Her brand, GamPlus Clothing, produces garments that tell stories of transformation—each piece a testament to ethical production and bold creativity. “We challenge the norm,” she said, “proving elegance can emerge from excess.” Her use of loved textiles and reimagined fabric designs showcases how innovation and sustainability can coexist.
Yet, Ndong’s path hasn’t been without challenges. “Shifting mindsets is tough,” she admitted. “It’s about helping people see the value of sustainable craftsmanship and long-term thinking.” Despite this, the rewards are profound. Ndong finds joy in mentoring young artisans, watching them grow confident and contribute to a brighter future. Through platforms that formalize creative skills, she aims to build an empowered creative economy where artisans thrive and traditions are preserved as enterprises, not just heritage.
Ndong’s influence extends beyond the runway. She’s a mentor and advocate, particularly for young women in the creative industry. “Don’t shrink, don’t wait for permission, and don’t doubt your voice,” she advised. “You were born to pioneer.” Her work promotes fair trade, education, and innovation, creating structures that uplift communities while preserving cultural legacies.
From representing The Gambia on an international stage to leading a sustainable fashion revolution, Youma Wally Ndong proves that style can have substance. Her designs, rooted in purpose and crafted with care, challenge the fashion industry to rethink its priorities. As she continues to bridge Gambian artistry with global markets, Ndong’s legacy is evident: fashion can be a force for good, empowering people and protecting the planet, one stitch at a time.
