Since the inception of Fashion Trust Arabia in 2018, the non-profit organisation has successfully supported and nurtured the careers of many aspiring designers in the Middle East.
As the first initiative of its kind in the Arab world, FTA is dedicated to supporting and highlighting the work of Arab creatives by shedding light on designers from across the MENA region while supporting and promoting their work through its platforms. FTA was launched under the patronage of its Honorary Chair HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and Co-chairs HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani and Tania Fares at an annual awards ceremony event held in Doha, Qatar and each year since the platform has selected designers across various categories to work with and support throughout the year.
After a successful event in Morocco this year, we talked to Co-Founder and Co-Chair Tania Fares, to find out more about the vision and objectives of FTA.
Congratulations on the latest edition of the FTA Prize – what were some of the highlights of the event for you?
The highlight for me was seeing the entire community come together to support and celebrate MENA designers. This collective spirit embodies what Fashion Trust Arabia is all about.
Why did FTA decide to partner with Morocco for this year’s edition?
This partnership is part of a broader initiative under Qatar Museums, aligned with the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture. It aims to foster lasting connections between diverse communities through cultural exchanges and collaborations.
Each year, the event attracts more and more international visitors and recognition. What does this mean to you and for the industry in the region?
The growing international recognition is a testament to the talent in the MENA region. It not only enhances the visibility of our designers but also establishes the region as a significant player in the global fashion industry, encouraging more investment and interest.
Can you tell us about this year’s winners and why they were selected?
This year’s winners were chosen for their unique perspectives and strong design narratives. They represent their heritage beautifully while also demonstrating commercial viability, which is essential for success in today’s market.
What is the jury looking for when selecting winners for each category?
The jury looks for strong design DNA, compelling stories that celebrate MENA heritage, and commercial viability. Each designer’s ability to connect with their cultural roots while appealing to a global audience is crucial.
You work very closely with Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani – how are you together helping to build the fashion industry in Qatar and the wider region?
Together, we are focused on nurturing talent and creating platforms for designers to showcase their work. Our initiatives aim to connect designers with mentors, retail partners, and opportunities that facilitate their growth and visibility.
The event attracts global celebrities and industry experts – how do you think this kind of guest list helps to elevate the fashion industry in the Middle East?
Having global celebrities and industry experts attend elevates the profile of our designers and the event itself. It creates valuable networking opportunities and showcases the region as a burgeoning hub for fashion, inspiring local talents.
Now that this year’s Awards are over – what’s next on the agenda for Fashion Trust Arabia?
Now, it’s time to support this year’s winners. We’ll be introducing them to our mentors and retail partners right away. I’m particularly excited about our new partnership with Ounass, as we’ll be bringing our designers to Dubai for the launch of their collections. Additionally, we’re preparing for the launch of the applications in January for the 2025 Prize and working on the London mentorship for this year’s winners, which coincides with the launch of their collection at Harrods. We’re also working on next year’s FTA agenda in Doha — there are many exciting developments happening.
The industry is growing a lot – what can FTA do to support aspiring and established designers from the region year-round?
FTA provides a platform for exposure and professional development, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources that help designers thrive throughout the year.
How do you think FTA is endorsing bridging cultures, and what kind of dialogue are you aspiring to open between the East and the West?
FTA fosters cultural exchange by highlighting the stories behind our designers and showcasing their work to a global audience. We aspire to create a dialogue that celebrates diversity while encouraging collaboration and understanding between Eastern and Western fashion communities.
What is the biggest challenge you face in your role?
One of the biggest challenges is navigating the rapidly changing landscape of the fashion industry while ensuring that our initiatives remain relevant and impactful for the designers we support.
What is an objective you would still like to achieve?
I would love to see more MENA designers breaking into international markets, gaining recognition on a global scale, and establishing a strong presence in major fashion capitals.
Would you look at expanding to have an FTA edit for different parts of the world – would you plan to roll it out to other markets, or do you feel they are already saturated?
FTA was inspired by the success of Fashion Trust UK with the British Fashion Council, and I also launched FTUS two years ago, which has rapidly grown in Los Angeles. While there’s potential for expansion, it’s crucial to approach it thoughtfully to ensure we’re meeting the needs of each unique market.
What advice would you give to aspiring designers in this region?
Stay true to your identity and roots. Embrace your uniqueness, think creatively, and never shy away from showcasing your MENA heritage. Stand out in your own way!
The announcement for the 2025 FTA Awards has just come out, and you will partner with India as the guest country. Looking ahead, what can we expect from this partnership?
This partnership will bring exciting opportunities for collaboration and cultural exchange with the support of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Their commitment to showcasing India’s rich artistic heritage and supporting local talents will ensure that this partnership is a huge success.
