Italy recognises two young designers in partnership with CFW Accelerate

By Tania de Silva

The Italian Embassy recently recognised two young designers in partnership with Colombo Fashion Week (CFW) Accelerate.

Italian Ambassador Damiano Francovigh was the Chief Guest. The two designers were H. Devapriya Halwala and Aysha Faizer.

The Italy Award, established by the Italian Embassy in Sri Lanka, stands as a tribute to Italy’s rich tradition in fashion and design. It plays a pivotal role in providing essential support to Sri Lanka’s burgeoning fashion design industry, nurturing creativity and innovation among young, promising designers.

CFW Accelerate, an integral part of the Colombo Fashion Week platform, plays a crucial role in guiding and educating aspiring designers, assisting them from the initial stages of the creative design process to the development of runway-ready and retail-ready collections.

Ambassador Francovigh expressed his enthusiasm for supporting and collaborating with the Sri Lankan fashion industry. He highlighted the importance of the Italy Award in bolstering local design talent and strengthening the bonds between Italy and Sri Lanka.

Aysha Faizer, one of the award recipients, lauded the CFW Accelerate program, describing it as a valuable learning experience and support system for her brand’s entry into the mainstream fashion arena. Her remarks underscored the program’s role in catapulting emerging designers into the spotlight.

H. Devapriya Halwala, the other distinguished award recipient, emphasised how the award’s support had contributed to the sustainability and growth of his brand. He noted that the accelerated program had equipped him with the training and understanding necessary to establish a fashion brand, turning his dreams into reality.

Both designers stressed that the Italy Award sustains their brands’ presence in the retail space, ensuring growth, stability, and room for creative exploration in the ever-evolving world of fashion. It has not only encouraged innovation but also transformed their fashion aspirations into tangible achievements.

The Italy Award has become a symbol of hope for young Sri Lankan designers, affording them the opportunity to showcase their talents on the global stage. The Italian Embassy recalled the remarkable talent that graced the runway last season, paving the way for a brighter and more vibrant future for Sri Lanka’s fashion industry.

The Italy Award, in collaboration with CFW Accelerate, continues to elevate the Sri Lankan fashion design industry by acknowledging and supporting young, talented designers. Its success reflects the enduring partnership between Italy and Sri Lanka in the world of fashion and design, promising further support for local brands in the seasons ahead.