FICFF Hosts Special Forum at the SDG Media Zone during the 79th UN General Assembly
New York, September 22, 2024 – The Fashion in a Conscious Future Foundation (FICFF) successfully held a special forum at the SDG Media Zone during the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
The forum, titled "Stitching Hope: Empowering Futures through Fashion, Sustainability, and Leadership," featured industry
leaders including Abigail Posner (Google US Creative Works Director), Lucie Brigham (UN Office for Partnerships Chief & UN Fashion and Lifestyle Network Co-Founder), Yitong Qin (FICFF Founder & CEO of UNIPX), Andy Yu (FICFF Co-chair & Sustainable Fashion Artist), Max Alexander (FICFF Ambassador), and Maribel Lieberman (MarieBelle Founder & CEO).
Max Alexander, the 8-year-old fashion design prodigy and
newly appointed FICFF ambassador, showcased his sustainable fashion designs and shared his journey into fashion, encouraging young designers to embrace sustainability in their work. He also presented four stunning sustainable fashion pieces, demonstrating the possibilities of eco-friendly design.
Lucie Brigham discussed how partnerships between companies,
nonprofits, and foundations can create innovative solutions to accelerate sustainable fashion. She emphasized that individual actions, however small, can drive change. Lucie shared, "Each of us has the potential to be part of the solution. By pooling our knowledge, resources, and networks, we can create collaborative and historical change."
The forum also highlighted FICFF’s Stitching Dreams Aesthetic Education Program, which was met with widespread attention. Yitong
Qin, FICFF Co-Chair, shared, “Many children’s talents go hidden, and their potential remains untapped. Quality education is crucial, and that’s why we launched the ‘Stitching Dreams’ program—to help children develop their fashion
and design skills, unlock their potential, and achieve their dreams.” Qin shared how the program has recently expanded to the remote areas in Southwest China, where children will soon wear self-designed, sustainably made winter clothing as part of the initiative.
As a volunteer representing the Stitching Dreams Program, 16-year-old Audrey Xiang shared her personal experiences and the impact the initiative has had on her.
Looking ahead, Maribel Lieberman expressed excitement about bringing the Stitching Dreams Program to her hometown of Honduras. She emphasized the importance of education in addressing global issues like hunger
and improving quality of life. Maribel believes the program will not only provide material support but will also open up new horizons for the children, inspiring them and paving new paths for their future.
FICFF Co-Chair Andy Yu also introduced the Green Thread Sustainable Fashion Education Program, which offers a platform for designers worldwide to explore and practice sustainable fashion. He stressed the importance of using eco-friendly materials to express creativity and emotion, and he highlighted how recycling old clothes can preserve the stories behind them. Andy announced that the designers participating in the program will have the opportunity to showcase their work at FICFF’s annual charity gala in December.
Abigail Posner summarized the event with a speech, noting that sustainable fashion requires both innovation and visionary leadership. She emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation of designers, encouraging industry leaders to provide platforms and resources for young talent to explore sustainable design practices. Abigail concluded, “It’s not just about how we help children, but how they inspire us.”
Abigail Posner also announced the launch of the Women Forward Program, which will support female entrepreneurs by building a global
community for women, especially those in fashion, helping them turn their dreams into reality and fostering a more equitable working environment.
The forum concluded with Yitong Qin and Andy Yu presenting Max Alexander with a certificate officially naming him as the Ambassador of the Stitching Dreams Aesthetic Education Program. FICFF looks forward to
collaborating further with Max and expanding its initiatives globally.
FICFF will continue its mission to support global sustainability through fashion, collaborating with partners to create a more equitable and responsible future for the fashion industry.
About FICFF
The Fashion in a Conscious Future Foundation (FICFF) is a non-profit organization based in New York, dedicated to transform fashion into a catalyst for global change. By harnessing the universal power of fashion, FICFF champions the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on innovation, sustainability, and equity. The mission of FICFF is to shape a more sustainable, conscious, and just future through the influence of fashion.