Guyana Fashion Week (GFW) is in full swing and has always mandated its alignment with social causes – local and internationally conscious platforms. This year, is no exception. GFW is recognising the contributions of the differently able to a developing society.
Bringing awareness to differently able persons is one of the missions of GFW 2016. In keeping with this focus, GFW is highlighting a differently able designer, Setra Oselmo, who will be featured in the Aspiring Designer showcase on November 11, at the Pegasus Hotel at 16:00h.
The policy of inclusion has been incorporated into the sustainable development goals of GFW, whereby all creative practitioners would be allowed access to participate in creative expression, irrespective of their disability.
Working in conjunction with the Social Protection Ministry, the Executive of GFW will be highlighting awareness of Trafficking In Persons as an underpinning of the social cause strategy of GFW.
Another awareness drive promoted by GFW is the national anti-domestic violence campaign – “Breaking the Silence”. Last weekend, GFW in collaboration with Help and Shelter hosted a fundraising fashion event at the residence of the home of the US Ambassador, Perry Holloway to sensitise the public to the needs of the victims of domestic violence.
Partnering with empowerment initiatives is an essential ingredient of the GFW menu. So when Calvin Ming, Guyanese race car driver won his round in the Formula 1 qualifier, it was only natural for the GFW Executive to celebrate the win of a relative of one of the prominent partners of GFW, over the years.
Opportunities for ‘brand Guyana’ are always priority for GFW, so nation-building alignments are a must. The Guyana Fashion Week will culminate on Sunday evening with the grand finale followed by an ‘All White’ after party.
Thus far, several regional and international designers are already in Guyana to participate in the event. In fact, several teams of professional models from Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao and Antigua and Barbuda are already inducted into the ewvent.
Meanwhile, the highlight of the event will be the announcement of the first ever model image competition. This will be done on the evening of Saturday. GFW Model Image will feature 11 young men and 17 young women participating in an empowering exercise for creative enthusiasts.
