Mind The Garment CIC
Because every fibre counts
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We are a Community Interest Company addressing the environmental impact of school uniforms across their entire life cycle—from raw material acquisition to end of life.
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Our initial focus is on how uniforms are worn, washed, repaired, reused, and disposed of, where everyday actions can create immediate, measurable impact, while building the evidence base for system-wide change.
Dr Chimdia KeChi-Okafor
Founder and Managing Director
Dr Chimdia KeChi-Okafor is the Founder and Managing Director of Mind The Garment CIC. She is an environmental and forensic science researcher with over six years of academic research experience investigating microfibre pollution in air and water environments.
Chimidia's Story
Chimdia completed her PhD at Northumbria University, where her research focused on the identification, quantification, and source discrimination of microfibres in marine and freshwater systems. She has also carried out postdoctoral research within a major UKRI-funded circular fashion and textiles programme, developing laboratory methods that are now informing industry testing standards. Alongside her research, Chimdia has designed and delivered undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, led public engagement activities, and contributed to peer-reviewed publications and book chapters.
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Mind The Garment CIC was founded through the combination of Chimdia’s academic research and her lived experience as a mother of three children who wear school uniforms. She is passionate about translating scientific evidence into practical, accessible solutions that support families, protect the environment, and inform better school uniform design.
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When she is not working, Chimdia enjoys spending time with her nuclear and church family and watching detective series.