In an unprecedented year where most families are navigating the impacts of a global pandemic, an Auckland mother aims to lift the spirits and well-being of the community through showcasing Pacific fashion.
Nora Swann, the Executive Producer for the annual Pacific Fusion Fashion Show, where Pasifika Futures is one of its major sponsors, says it has been a challenge to organise this event during the Covid-19 crisis. But she says her fashion show is what’s needed to not only promote emerging Pacific designers but also spread some positive vibes after a difficult year.
“For us to be able to pull this off in a Covid-19 environment, has made me very grateful to everyone who has helped and believed in us. This fashion show is run by a group of hardworking women, who have families and other commitments but still put in the required time and effort to deliver an event of this calibre.”
The Samoan/Niuean entrepreneur started the Pacific Fusion Fashion Show five years ago to promote and build the confidence of emerging Pacific fashion designers and showcase their work on a national and international stage.
“I wanted to provide the essential skills that designers need to help them reach their full potential and to bring the best out of them,” she says.
Normally hosted at different South Auckland venues, this year the fashion show is going virtual and will premiere online, due to the ongoing threat of Covid-19 and is now called the Polynation Digital Fashion Show.
Thirteen designers from different Pacific backgrounds will showcase their new fashion lines using a variety of Pacific models.
“To date, we’ve had 50 emerging and established Pacific fashion designers, who have showcased their ideas, their first fashion lines and unique approaches to this industry. These are hardworking Pacific designers from across the nation, creating out of their homes and garages, small businesses or fashion school studios.”
The former personal stylist also visits schools across Auckland to implement her “Dressed in Confidence” programme. It’s a well-being initiative teaching young women the importance of self-esteem and kindness.
She says that fashion and showcasing our unique Pacific style is a pathway to build confidence and lift self-esteem.
“We’ve had success to date and our work has resonated with our community. This gives me the confidence that we are heading in the right direction.”
The Polynation Digital Fashion Show premieres on Saturday 5 December at 7pm. You can watch online www.thecoconet.tv or www.fashionz.co.nz
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Date: Tuesday 24 November 2020