Prada Group, synonymous with Italian fashion, is breaking new ground with a pioneering initiative by launching a fashion training program in Mexico. Partnering with UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, the program titled “Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears” aims to empower female artisans from local communities in Querétaro state.
This innovative scheme focuses on imparting technical and practical skills essential for the fashion industry, while also promoting women’s empowerment and education on sexual and reproductive health. Lorenzo Bertelli, head of corporate social responsibility at Prada Group, emphasized the program’s goal: “Our aim is to empower and inspire hope for a better future for all participants, as we continue our mission to build a more inclusive society.”
Thirty women, aged 18 to 50, hailing from indigenous and nearby communities in Querétaro, are part of the program. These women, already skilled in embroidery and weaving, previously operated independently, often selling their crafts in local markets. Now, they will undergo six months of intensive training and workshops provided by Prada Group, UNFPA, and Nest, a local nonprofit dedicated to advancing gender equity and economic inclusion for artisans.
The training will cover essential business skills and financial literacy, enhancing their knowledge in areas such as budgeting, sales, and merchandising. Upon completion, the artisans will have opportunities for internships guided by Prada Group’s seasoned fashion professionals. Nest will continue to support them in establishing their own handicraft businesses within their communities.
The expansion of “Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears” into Mexico follows the successful implementation of the project in Ghana and Kenya in 2021, which similarly aimed to empower women through fashion while addressing sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and economic empowerment.
UNFPA’s chief of strategic partnerships, Mariarosa Cutillo, highlighted the impact of this partnership: “The collaboration with Prada Group not only fosters creativity but also plays a pivotal role in building inclusive communities for women and girls.”
Through this initiative, Prada Group and UNFPA are demonstrating the transformative power of fashion combined with education, paving the way for a brighter future for women artisans in Querétaro, Mexico.
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