Salim Rashamwala

Today, Top Manta sells ethically and sustainably made clothes, bags, and shoes.

For example, the Andedem line, which means walking together in Wolof, which is Senegal's national language.

And Monteros are now being plugged into the fashion world.

For example, Top Manta Top Model was formed after fashion companies said that they were having trouble finding black models.

And it now connects Monteros with modeling gigs.

It's interesting because it brings up the question of belonging again.

Some of the people in the immigrant community you spoke to might feel excluded because they aren't able to buy these goods.

In a way, Top Manta is navigating another version of that classic streetwear challenge of becoming inaccessible.

Far Flung is produced by Jesse Baker and Eric Newsom of Magnificent Noise for TED.

Our producers for this episode are Juete Gitana, Salim Reshemwala, Mark Sanchez, and Cesar Pesquera.

Production support in Barcelona by Alain Ruiz Terol and Laura Grazioli.

With the guidance of Roxanne Highlash and Colin Helms.

Our fact checkers are Nicole Bodie and Christian Aparta.

Voice over by Jeremy House.

Ad stories are produced by Transmitter Media.

This episode was mixed and sound designed by Kristen Miller.

Our executive producer is Eric Newsom.

I'm Salim Roshamwala.