Corporate, Government Support Driving Sector: FFW
On the eve of its 15th anniversary, and in the face of the continued challenges brought on through COVID-19 challenges, Fiji Fashion Week remains excitedly optimistic for the fashion industry.
Managing director, Ellen Whippy-Knight, said: “In 2021, we’re just excited that with easing of global travel and with vaccinations rolling out, we get to come back and bring some of what’s exciting about the international global Fashion Week brand to Fiji.
“More importantly we get to work towards getting business back to normal so our designers can continue to earn through their craft.”
The driving momentum for Fiji Fashion was the corporate sponsorship, Government support and community enthusiasm for the international brand, she said.
She said the 2020 pandemic halted supply routes and made it difficult for events of a fashion nature to take place.
“But we’re excited and we’re grateful that designers in the Fijian fashion industry continue to persevere and they’re extremely resilient,” Mrs Whippy-Knight said.
“In 2021 we will bring back the fashion education component.” Mrs Whippy-Knight said grassroot activities and competitions will be brought to the digital space which the new normal was forcing all economic activities into.
“We are encouraged by the fact that leaders understand that fashion is not just about the glamour and the clothes or the fun of our events, but that what we do also has a major impact on the livelihoods of people in our creative industries,” she said. Meanwhile, auditions in Suva yesterday drew interest from 150 people, for a search of 35 models.
Fiji Fashion Week’s next season commences from May 24-26.