“Second chances are not given to make things right, but to prove that we can do better even after we fall.”

The moment you stand up against adversity, you become a winner. It requires courage, mental willpower, and strength to be the change you wish to see. Meaningful relationships also help foster our trajectory, dreams, and aspirations. The community’s unwavering support makes initiatives like the Inside Out Clothing Project a reality. Greg McKenzie founded this project as the UK’s first clothing brand, created and designed by young ex-offenders. It provides a space for those leaving the criminal justice system to harness their creative skills, build relationships, and generate job prospects following their struggles.

“The idea for the Inside Out Clothing Project emerged ten years ago, inspired by my experiences in and out of children’s homes. At 20 years old, I became the youngest black senior broadcast journalist at the BBC. I wanted to create a platform that offers hope and aspiration, which led me to establish the Inside Out Clothing Project three years ago. Since then, I have helped 30 young people. Dream big—having the right mindset is essential to instigate change,” says Greg McKenzie.

The grand opening of the Inside Out Clothing Project occurred on Saturday, November 23rd, at Westfield Stratford. Four talented designers showcased creations that represent unyielding hope transformed into triumph.

Designed by Martallus Alfred, “Life Reloaded” represents a new beginning. “I always wanted to be a music producer, which was my backup plan. While in prison, I achieved a Level 2 in Maths and English, although I didn’t particularly enjoy reading and education. There was a college on-site, and I learned new skills in a print shop that produced clothing for prisoners. After leaving prison, I connected with a hub in Croydon that helps former prisoners enrol in courses, where I learned about Inside Out. I’ve always been business-minded and didn’t want to work for anyone else, so I eventually started my clothing brand. Inside Out is fantastic for anyone leaving prison because ex-offenders rarely get a second chance. It prevents you from drowning in uncertainty,” says Martallus Alfred.

“Locked In,” founded by Chanel Pinnick, reflects a journey from being locked in to being locked on. “My logo design represents focus and self-discovery. I appreciate street art, which inspired my hand-crafted design. I chose a stencil design for the lettering; the target symbolizes focus. Joining the Inside Out Clothing Project was a tremendous opportunity. I became involved in February of this year, and as a result, they made everything seem possible. Don’t lose hope if you’re leaving the criminal justice system—be open to new possibilities,” says Chanel Pinnick.

“Rethink,” designed by Joe Wanzala, epitomizes the yin-yang quality of life. “There are two sides to everything and a grey area in life. I chose to change my life, and my design represents that we all face choices we must consider,” says Joe Wanzala.

“Cold Heart,” designed by Taschan Peart, is about survival. “It reflects my trauma. I grew up in care and was often thrust into new situations without forming connections. I experienced a lot of pain amid family unrest, but I found happiness when my family found peace. The only way I could protect myself was to feel nothing. Being numb means sacrificing good feelings for the bad, but being cold-hearted has made me a survivor. Inside Out bridges the gap between two worlds – the world no one speaks about or wants to help and the world everyone knows and speaks about, i.e. everyday life.” says Taschan Peart.

Listening to the stories of these talented designers was genuinely inspiring. They reminded me of my struggles, moments of self-doubt, and times when I felt like giving up, believing that no one cared or was paying attention. A common theme in all our experiences is the importance of mindset and the need to listen to ourselves, even during uncertain times.

The Inside Out Clothing Project equips participants with business, creative, employment, and personal development skills, helping them to “find freedom through fashion.”

All sales proceeds are returned to the community interest company, allowing the Inside Out project to continue its vital work.

Written by Natalie Robinson