Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Celebrates UN Day with “Sustainable Fashion for a Healing World”
On October 17, 2024, the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs (ZCME) hosted a powerful and visually stunning celebration of the United Nations (UN) Day at the Samsung Hall of SM Aura, Bonifacio Global City. The event, themed “Sustainable Fashion for a Healing World,” underscored the transformative power of fashion, not just as an art form but as a tool for social change and environmental responsibility.
A Vision of Sustainable Fashion and Social Responsibility
The ZCME’s event marked a distinctive collaboration between its members and 19 talented designers, resulting in the creation of 14 one-of-a-kind upcycled fashion pieces and accessories. These designs were crafted from pre-loved clothing, generously donated by The Little Vintage Shop. The initiative was more than just a showcase of fashion creativity—it was a call to action for responsible consumption and sustainability, with all proceeds from the sale of these creations benefitting the Psychological Center for Sexually Abused Girls at Marillac Hills in Alabang, Muntinlupa.
The Psychological Center, operated by ZCME, provides crucial mental health services to vulnerable young girls who have suffered trauma. By merging the themes of sustainable fashion and social responsibility, ZCME not only supported environmental initiatives but also ensured that the resources raised would go directly to helping some of the most at-risk children in the community.
A Message of Hope and Change from the Guest of Honor
The event was graced by Karen Davila, multi-award-winning broadcaster, journalist, and television news anchor, who served as the Guest of Honor. Karen, who is also a UN Women National Goodwill Ambassador, delivered a stirring speech on the importance of responsible consumerism and the urgent need to align our actions with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She highlighted the interconnectedness of SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), emphasizing that fashion and consumer choices play a crucial role in the global pursuit of these goals.
Karen's words resonated with the audience as she stressed that fashion should no longer be seen as a luxury that harms the planet but as an industry with the potential to promote positive change. She urged consumers to think critically about how their choices impact both people and the environment, fostering a sense of global responsibility that transcends beyond mere aesthetics.
A Celebration of Talent, Creativity, and Community
The event was a vibrant gathering of creatives, dignitaries, and supporters, who came together to celebrate both art and social impact. The collaboration between Zonta Club of Makati and Environs and 19 internationally acclaimed designers from across the globe was a testament to the power of community, creativity, and compassion. Designers from countries like Australia, the Czech Republic, Paris, Berlin, Milan, Tokyo, Seoul, and more, worked hand-in-hand with Zontians to craft fashion that made a difference.
Notable participants included:
- Ionica Abraham Lim (Australia), Chairperson of the Fashion Design and Merchandising Program at the College of Saint Benilde.
- Tish Sevilla (Paris, France), renowned shoe designer.
- Ranya Fernandez (Philippines), ZCME member and contributor.
- Debbie Co (London, UK), prominent fashion designer.
- Happy Andrada (New York, USA), celebrated fashion designer.
- Joyce Makitalo (South Africa), jewelry designer known for her bold, sustainable pieces.
These designers used their creativity to transform donated garments into stunning, wearable works of art, showcasing the limitless possibilities of upcycling and sustainable fashion.
Dignitaries and International Support
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, ambassadors, and spouses of ambassadors, adding to the gravity of the occasion. Attendees included:
- Madam Eva Melbin of the Royal Danish Embassy.
- Mme. Maria Elena Urriste of the Embassy of the Republic of Argentina.
- Mme. Indri P. Akyol spouse of the Turkish Ambassador.
- Mme. Michelle Louise Hejcova, spouse of the designate Ambassador of the Czech Republic.
- Mme. Susan Fries, spouse of the Ambassador of Sweden.
Their presence added further weight to the ZCME’s mission of empowering women and girls while fostering sustainability.
A Global Movement for a Better Future The celebration of Sustainable Fashion for a Healing World served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that fashion can have, not only in changing the lives of individuals but in helping to heal the planet. Through thoughtful design, conscientious consumption, and a commitment to social responsibility, ZCME’s initiative highlighted the importance of fashion in driving forward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
This memorable event is a reflection of ZCME’s unwavering dedication to making the world a better place for women and girls. As part of Zonta International, a global organization working towards the advancement of women, the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs continues to leverage creativity, compassion, and collaboration to support important causes and make a lasting impact on society.
In the spirit of unity, creativity, and global solidarity, the success of this event not only emphasized the potential for sustainable fashion to heal the world but also underscored the importance of every individual’s contribution in building a better, more just future.
