Doha, Qatar: The fifth edition of the Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) is set to take place in Doha this October. This year FTA is partnering with the EMERGE Initiative and showcasing Nigeria as its Guest Country for 2023.
FTA has also announced this year’s Advisory Board members, comprising an impressive lineup of industry luminaries including Ana Khouri, Beka Gvishiani, Carljin Jacobs, Carlos Nazario, Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele, Delfina Deletrez, Kelly Wearstler, Michael Ward, Miral Youssef, Nadia Dhouib, Peter Dundas, Piotrek Panszcyk, Beckett Fogg, Sarah Staudinger, Tyler Mitchell, and Valerie Messika.
Meanwhile, the returning Advisory Board members from previous years are Adam Baidawi, Caroline Issa, Fabio Piras, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, Gaia Repossi, Imruh Asha, Nina Garcia, Saif Mahdhi, Sara Maino, Susie Lau, and Tiffany Godoy.
“Their support is invaluable to our mission towards nurturing and highlighting designers from the MENA Region,” said FTA on its official social media channels. “Once selected by the Advisory Board, the 24 finalists will present their work in Doha to the FTA Jury for a chance to win at the FTA 2023 Awards in October.”
Winning designers at FTA can expect not only recognition but also substantial financial support. The cash prize awarded ranges from $100,000 to $200,000, depending on the size of the designer’s business.
Additionally, the prestigious Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award includes a grant of $25,000. Furthermore, winners in the ready-to-wear, accessories, and jewellery categories will have the opportunity to participate in a one-year mentorship programme facilitated by Matches Fashion, a leading global luxury retailer based in London. Matches Fashion will also carry the collections of these winners. The evening-wear category winner’s collection will be showcased and carried by the renowned luxury retailer, Harrods.
As a non-profit organisation, FTA plays a crucial role in supporting and nurturing emerging designers from across the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region. It offers financial assistance, guidance, and mentorship, providing a platform for talented Arab designers to grow and gain international recognition.
Through its various platforms, FTA actively promotes and showcases the work of MENA designers, covering diverse topics such as style, beauty, travel, designer profiles, exclusive interviews, sustainability, retail, and e-commerce. Additionally, it regularly collaborates with brands on capsule collections aimed at fundraising for its community of designers.
Qatar Airways, Qatar Duty Free, Galeries Lafayette Doha, and Chopard have been announced as sponsors for this year’s event, further solidifying their commitment to supporting the growth and development of the fashion industry.
Since its establishment in 2018, FTA has awarded millions of dollars to support designers in the MENA region, recognising outstanding talent across various categories. The grand award ceremony for the previous two editions was held at the National Museum of Qatar, this year’s venue is yet to be announced.
