Utomhin Dalton Omonze
The FDI (Fashion and design institute of Mauritius) showcased Mauritius as a nation through their creative nationals by curating designers and preparing them to present their collection at Expo 2020. The 4 day program included seminars, fashion shows and exhibitions focused on solutions currently affecting our ecosystems. On the first day the ministry of industrial development and the fashion design institute of Mauritius organized a show dedicated to tourism through fashion and ingenuity at the renowned One and only hotel Dubai. Students from the FDI Mauritius created garments that showcased Mauritian history such as basket crafted dresses to signify the settlement of the African people who contributed their basket weaving skills on the island, as well as fishermen’s baskets used in the past by early Mauritians. In attendance was the President of Mauritius along with several delegates from the ministry.
The well attended show concluded with a cocktail party. Guests had the opportunity to sample food and beverages from Mauritius. On the second day, the show was held at the EXPO 2020 Dubai France pavilion. The focus was on sustainable art and textile. Participating students and designers hailing from Italy, Pakistan, India, Mauritius and Dubai made garments from recycled materials and fabrics that would have otherwise been thrown away.
In an attempt to take steps towards a more sustainable fashion industry. The show highlighted methods of recycling from each designer’s perspective. The aesthetic show was complete with a vibrant interior at the France pavilion that also unveiled the extraordinary art of renowned designer John Paul Gaultier.
Runway Dubai carefully recruited participating designers taking careful consideration to pick the best emerging talent who work on goals to improve their environment and actively take part in eco-awareness research and fashion shows. The fashion platform was created to nurture emerging talents by inviting designers from fashion schools to compete against each other and provide them with opportunities that will help them build their confidence towards a sound career in the fashion industry. A presentation style seminar hosted by the FDI in collaboration with Runway Dubai took place at the doubletree Hilton hotel where designers defended their innovation, creativity and methods by exhibiting and explaining the process of the clothes they presented.
Awards were presented to participating designers and exhibitors by at the closing ceremony followed by lunch and networking sessions. Recipients of the designers awards were presented by Dr Sabrina D. Ramsamy-Iranah to the leading designers of sustainable fashion 2022.
Award Recipients
