Pursuing a dream in a new land

At just 18 years old, Belange Mutanda made the life-changing decision to leave her home in the Democratic Republic of Congo and move to the United States. With a deep passion for design and fashion, she set her sights on Iowa—a place far removed from the bustling streets of Kinshasa but full of opportunities to turn her dreams into reality.

Adjusting to life in a new country was not without its challenges. The cultural differences, language barriers, and the absence of her family made the transition difficult. However, Mutanda remained determined, using these obstacles as motivation to push forward. She enrolled in university, immersing herself in the world of fashion and design, eager to refine her skills and carve out a space for herself in the industry.

Despite the difficulties, she found a sense of belonging in the creative community. Her unique perspective, shaped by her Congolese heritage, allowed her to bring something fresh and distinctive to her work. She quickly gained recognition for her designs, which blended African influences with contemporary fashion trends.

“I knew I had to work twice as hard to prove myself,” Mutanda recalls. “But I also knew that my background and experiences gave me a unique voice in the fashion world.”

Her journey was not just about personal success—it was about representation. She wanted to show that young African designers could make a mark on the global stage. Through perseverance and an unwavering belief in her vision, she laid the foundation for what would soon become a thriving fashion career.

Building a fashion empire

With a strong foundation in fashion and design, Mutanda took the bold step of launching her own fashion label. Drawing inspiration from her Congolese roots and her experiences in the United States, she created a brand that seamlessly blended traditional African aesthetics with modern, sophisticated styles. Her designs quickly gained attention for their vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and elegant silhouettes, setting her apart in a competitive industry.

Starting a fashion business from the ground up was no easy feat. Mutanda faced the challenges of securing funding, sourcing quality materials, and building a customer base. However, her determination and resourcefulness helped her navigate these obstacles. She leveraged social media to showcase her designs, connecting with fashion enthusiasts and potential clients worldwide. Her ability to tell a story through her creations resonated with many, earning her a loyal following.

As her brand grew, so did her responsibilities. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with motherhood required immense dedication and time management. Yet, Mutanda embraced the challenge, using her experiences as a mother to fuel her creativity. She designed pieces that celebrated strength, femininity, and cultural heritage, ensuring that every garment carried a deeper meaning.

“Fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a way to express identity and heritage,” Mutanda explains. “I want my designs to empower people, to make them feel confident and connected to their roots.”

Her success did not go unnoticed. She was invited to showcase her collections at fashion events, collaborate with other designers, and even mentor aspiring fashion entrepreneurs. Through her work, she not only built a thriving business but also created a platform for African-inspired fashion to be recognised and appreciated on a global scale.

Despite the pressures of running a business, Mutanda remained committed to her vision. She continued to innovate, experimenting with new fabrics, techniques, and designs while staying true to her cultural influences. Her journey was a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the belief that fashion could be a bridge between cultures.

Inspiring the next generation

Beyond building a successful fashion brand, Mutanda has dedicated herself to shaping the future of the industry by mentoring and educating aspiring designers. As a teacher at Iowa State University, she brings her real-world experience into the classroom, offering students invaluable insights into the complexities of fashion entrepreneurship.

Her approach to teaching goes beyond technical skills—she emphasises the importance of storytelling, cultural representation, and resilience in the fashion world. Drawing from her own journey, she encourages students to embrace their unique backgrounds and use them as a source of inspiration in their designs.

“Fashion is not just about trends; it’s about telling a story,” Mutanda shares. “I want my students to understand that their heritage, experiences, and perspectives are what make their work truly special.”

Mutanda’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young designers as they navigate the challenges of launching their own brands. Through workshops and speaking engagements, she shares practical advice on everything from sourcing materials to building a sustainable business model.

Her commitment to education also includes advocating for greater diversity in the fashion industry. She works to create opportunities for underrepresented voices, ensuring that emerging designers from diverse backgrounds have the support and visibility they need to succeed.

• She organises fashion showcases that highlight multicultural influences in design.
• She collaborates with industry professionals to provide students with hands-on experience.
• She encourages sustainable and ethical fashion practices, teaching students how to create with purpose.

Through her work as an educator and mentor, Mutanda is not only shaping the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs but also fostering a more inclusive and representative industry. Her journey—from a young woman with a dream to a leader in fashion and education—serves as an inspiration to many, proving that passion, perseverance, and a commitment to giving back can create lasting change.

Pursuing a dream: From the Democratic Republic of Congo to Iowa

At just 18, Belange Mutanda made a daring leap—leaving the Democratic Republic of Congo for the heartland of America, Iowa. It wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a bold step towards a future in fashion. With an eye for design and an unshakable passion, she embraced the unknown, determined to carve her own path in an industry that demands both creativity and resilience.

Fashion, for Mutanda, was never just about clothing—it was about storytelling, culture, and self-expression. Growing up in Congo, she was surrounded by rich textiles, vibrant prints, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. But she knew that to turn her passion into a career, she needed to take risks. Moving to Iowa, a place far removed from the bustling fashion capitals, was a challenge, but one she was ready to face.

“I knew I had to push myself beyond my comfort zone. Fashion is about evolution, and I had to evolve too,”

she reflects on her journey.

In Iowa, she immersed herself in the world of design, refining her skills and developing a unique aesthetic that blends her Congolese heritage with modern silhouettes. The transition wasn’t easy—navigating a new culture, language, and industry all at once—but her determination never wavered. She understood that fashion is more than just trends; it’s about identity, empowerment, and making a statement.

Her journey is a testament to the power of ambition and adaptability. In an industry where location often dictates opportunity, Mutanda proved that talent and perseverance can break barriers. From Congo to Iowa, she didn’t just follow a dream—she redefined what was possible.

Inspiring the next generation: Balancing fashion, motherhood, and teaching

Juggling the roles of designer, educator, and mother, Belange Mutanda embodies the modern woman redefining success in fashion. Running her own label while shaping the next generation of designers at Iowa State University, she seamlessly blends creativity with mentorship, proving that passion and purpose can coexist.

Her brand is more than just garments—it’s a movement. Each piece reflects her Congolese roots, infused with contemporary elegance, celebrating bold prints, structured silhouettes, and a fearless approach to design. But beyond the runway, Mutanda is deeply invested in education, guiding aspiring designers to find their own voice in an ever-evolving industry.

“Fashion isn’t just about making clothes; it’s about telling stories, creating impact, and building a legacy,”

she shares with her students, encouraging them to embrace both innovation and authenticity.

Balancing motherhood with a demanding career is no small feat, yet Mutanda approaches it with the same determination that brought her from Congo to Iowa. She understands the challenges of carving out space in the fashion world, especially as a woman of colour, and uses her platform to uplift others. Whether in the studio or the classroom, she champions resilience, creativity, and the power of self-belief.

For Australian women navigating their own careers in fashion, Mutanda’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t about choosing between passion and responsibility—it’s about weaving them together. She’s not just designing clothes; she’s designing a future where women can thrive on their own terms.