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Rume Egbeniyoko

The Royal College of Art

Rume Egbeniyoko is a British-Nigerian designer and former design engineer based in South East London. Currently studying Innovation Design Engineering at Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art through with the support of the Virgil Abloh Scholarship, his practice sits at the intersection of technology, craft, and cultural storytelling. With a background in engineering and a growing passion for 3D modelling, generative design, and jewellery, Rume uses tools of innovation to explore the boundaries of form, function, and heritage. His current work investigates how digital methods can enhance traditional creative processes, blending modern aesthetics with deep-rooted cultural meaning. Through a systems-thinking approach developed during his postgraduate studies, he aims to design not just objects, but intuitive, multi-layered solutions that are as socially resonant as they are materially refined.

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IVIE: Sustainable Nigerian Coral Bead Jewellery

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Fashion Competition 2025

IVIE is Nigerian coral bead jewellery made out of eggshells to explore the balance between culture and sustainability. Coral use in Nigerian jewellery dates back to the 15th century, when Portuguese traders exchanged coral for spices, textiles, and other goods. They were initially used by Benin royalty, before their use spread across other Nigerian tribes. Now, they’re commonly used for special occasions such as weddings, coronations, and religious ceremonies. However coral harvesting is unsustainable, posing a major ecological threat as well endangering the cultural heritage of Nigeria’s coral bead jewellery; so how can cultural preservation coexist with environmental protection? IVIE answers this question through the elimination of natural coral in Nigerian coral bead jewellery and creation of an eggshell biomaterial that authentically replicates their cultural and aesthetic value, thus supporting the ecological preservation of coral reefs.

In association with Arts Thread

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.