Our Work
The concept for my foundation began with a deeply personal desire to contribute to the economic development of the impoverished Pacific Coast region of Colombia, where I was born. Initially, my goal was to train 10 Afro-Colombian women to become professional seamstresses. However, what started as a small, focused effort quickly grew into a regional initiative. With local support, the program expanded to include 300 women, all of whom my foundation is currently training (see attached photos and videos).
Today, this vision has evolved into a potential nationwide initiative, with the national government expressing interest in joining forces to train 3,000 women across the country.
This is the story of how I got here—a journey of giving back to the community that shaped me.
DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A TEXTILE, GARMENT, AND FASHION DESIGN ECOSYSTEM
This program aims to strengthen the local economy and enhance the development of the Textile, Garment, Design, and Fashion Cluster on the Colombian Pacific Coast by establishing a National Sewing and High Fashion Center in the region. The project has the backing of RAP Pacífico and various sector stakeholders who have committed to jointly realizing this ambitious proposal.
Background
The Colombian Pacific region is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wealth, boasting a long tradition of artisanal craftsmanship and garment production. However, over the past 50 years, local tailors and garment makers have faced significant economic and social challenges, particularly due to the influx of large clothing retailers. This shift has led to the loss of over 100 years of heritage in tailoring and garment-making in the region, impacting the entire value chain and bringing changes to those involved in fashion production.
Within this historical context arises the need for a project that strengthens the region’s potential in fashion to generate employment and create economic and social development opportunities.
This program aims to strengthen the local economy and enhance the development of the Textile, Garment, Design, and Fashion Cluster on the Colombian Pacific Coast by establishing a National Sewing and Haute Couture Center in the region. The project has the backing of RAP Pacífico and various sector stakeholders who have committed to jointly realizing this ambitious proposal.
Pacific is Fashion
During the event "Pacific is Fashion," fashion designer Edwing D’Angelo introduced the initiative Pacific Fashion International Textile Cluster (Confección Pacífico Moda Internacional Cluster Textil).
This program aims to strengthen the local economy and enhance the development of the Textile, Garment, Design, and Fashion Cluster on the Colombian Pacific Coast by establishing a National Sewing and Haute Couture Center in the region. The project has the backing of RAP Pacífico and various sector stakeholders who have committed to jointly realizing this ambitious proposal.
