Design innovators create leather from algae, banana waste
Tal de Guzman, founder and CEO of Risqué Designs and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Fashion Design and Merchandising educator, has long utilized local textiles and leather through her brand. While her fascination with plant-based alternatives began years ago, it was not until Micca Amor, her former student and creative director of Love, Amor Studios; and Vinz Mamalateo, founder and CEO of Philip-Anaban, both reached out to her that the project started to fall into place.
Her guidance was sought by the young visionaries on their respective creative explorations—Amor on her pursuit to develop algae-based bioplastics, and Mamalateo on his banana leather project.
What started as mentorship evolved into a meaningful collaboration and, eventually, into Konstratá, a forward-thinking startup that converts agricultural waste into bio-based leather.
Konstratá means “with layers.” And their tagline–”Fibers Don’t Hide”–echoes their elevated advocacy to promote natural and bio-based layered substitutes to animal hide.
“Plant-based was first introduced to us as food, and then for clothing,” De Guzman said. “It does not only improve our quality of life, but also our way of living.”
Amor explained, “Instead of mimicking animal leather, we embrace the natural beauty of plant-based fibers. We believe it gives our products their own texture and character.”
At the heart of this green vision is their proud partnership with Villa Socorro Farm, a community-driven enterprise that provides banana fibers and peel wastes.
“More than just a source of raw materials, they represent the kind of impact we strive for—empowering local communities, promoting sustainable practices, and growing a movement rooted in purpose,” the group stated.
“We do not just champion plant-based innovation—we champion the people and places behind it,” they added.
Mindful materials
Designed to be durable yet flexible, Konstratá leather promises adaptability and versatility, perfect for a wide range of applications. It is ideal for artists, designers, and manufacturers who seek mindful materials for fashion and apparel—from garments and shoes to bags and accessories, as well as home and lifestyle items—to include furniture accents, decor, and interior trims. It likewise offers an eco-conscious substitute for crafting and packaging.
The group said, “Konstratá redefines what leather can be—not an imitation, but a new standard in sustainable material innovation. This is just the beginning. As we grow, we envision expanding our offerings to serve both consumer and industrial markets looking for ethical, high-performance materials.
The trio understands that real impact comes from education, innovation, and collaboration. They look forward to partnering with creators and brands to integrate sustainability into their processes and products, whether by bringing their visions to life by customizing the plant-powered leather, or by introducing special projects and capsule collections.
Among their objectives is to forge strategic tie-ups with schools, nongovernment organizations, and local communities to further spread awareness on the importance of waste-to-resource. They likewise support livelihood through responsible sourcing.
To further their cause, as well as to foster community engagement, Konstratá took part in the crowdfunding program of the Benilde Hub of Innovation for Inclusion with The Spark Project, which allows them to offer rewards or tokens to those who wish to be part of their advocacy.
In their campaign, Mamalateo expounded on the crucial role of sponsors in their pursuit to build a future where the qualities of leather do not need to come at the expense of animals or the planet.
“We believe that our backers are more than just supporters—they are an essential part of our story and mission,” he noted. “You are not only helping us grow—you are actively participating in a journey toward a greener, more ethical world.”
Discover more about Konstratá through instagram.com/konstrataleather and fund.thesparkproject.com/project/konstrata-a-bio-based-leather-alternative.
