Fashion aid’s ‘The Grant’ elevates Filipino talent in design competition
“Filipino creativity deserves to be seen, nurtured and celebrated on the global stage,” said Paul Cabral, president of Fashion Aid Philippines, at a well-attended gathering of the country’s top designers, media executives and editors, ambassadors, and government officials from trade and tourism.
It was the launch of The Grant, the organization’s first-ever national design competition to serve as a significant platform for creativity and innovation in the fields of fashion, accessories and living. This exciting initiative is open to Filipino talents, aged 18 to 30, who will get the chance to be sent to various academies in the design capitals of the world and have their works celebrated as part of the broader effort to uplift Filipino artistry.
“The competition hopes to discover visionary thinkers and makers who can reignite Filipino originality through fresh, innovative work, pushing the boundaries of design while honoring the craft, culture and stories that shape us,” shared Paul, who is a couturier known for his craftsmanship, as well as preserving and promoting Filipino heritage.
Fashion Aid Philippines, a duly registered, non-profit organization, was actually created to promote cultural, social and economic consciousness while assisting the new generation of Filipino creatives in their applied arts.
It’s a holistic approach of infusing culture into art by engaging in activities that will expand the Filipino artists’ knowledge in their field, as well as associated disciplines through training seminars, symposia and projects on culture, design, artistry and safety.
As a testament to the growing global recognition and support of Filipino creativity, foreign ambassadors and other members of the diplomatic community were present at the launch. Agnes Huibonhua, honorary consul of Gambia, welcomed them and shared that she was just talking to some ambassadors “who are very much interested in supporting this cause.” A known patroness of the arts herself, she looked forward to how The Grant is “an opportunity to unite a community of forward-thinking professionals who are passionate about shaping the future of design in the Philippines.”
Yiouri Augousti of R&Y Augousti, whose creations have garnered international acclaim for redefining luxury interiors and inspiring designers worldwide, called on everyone “to rise to the challenge of reaching out to the small villages all over the Philippines to get talented young people to be mentored, to help raise them to a higher level” so that they will be ready for the world stage. “There will be a rotating gallery in Paris for fashion, jewelry and home, each one has a month in the most prominent position there, but we have to do it well. We have to compete with Paris.”
With auditions and submission of entries in April and May, screening till June, production and mentoring till August and announcement of winners in September, The Grant promises to be a journey of design education and exploration for selected creatives who can refine their concepts and collaborate with industry leaders to present original, bold ideas that are ready for a globally competitive market.
The First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos gave her wholehearted support in a video message: “Thank you for creating a wonderful platform that will help elevate Filipino creativity and innovation in the world of fashion and design. Let’s continue to encourage our artists and designers so they can make their mark not only here but also abroad.”
Paul further bolstered the importance of the endeavor: “This initiative is really our investment in the future of Filipino design. We have to build a stronger foundation for the creative industries in our country and create space for Filipino voices in global conversations.”
The Grant national competition guidelines
Eligibility
The competition is open to interested fashion, accessories and lifestyle (furniture and industrial) designers ages 18 to 30 years old. Applicants must be Filipino and currently living in the Philippines.
Application
Interested participants must submit a scanned copy of valid government ID and a short video presentation (maximum 5 minutes) about their existing featured product at fashionaidphilippines@gmail.com from April 1 to May 15.
Criteria:
- Creativity and Originality
- Visual Impact and out-of-the-box idea
- Concept development
- Innovation and sustainability
- Innovative and global appeal
- environmental and ethical considerations
- Execution and technical skill
- Attention to detail
- Craftsmanship
- Relevance to the Filipino culture, arts and tourism
- Embodies the Filipino DNA
- Connection with the local audience
- Marketability
- Future growth potential
- Relevance to purpose
Award
The winners will receive a design education scholarship, product development support and an exclusive opportunity to showcase their work at a premiere space in Paris, France.
Timeline:
April 1-May 15: Audition and submission of video entries
May-June: Screening process
June-August: Production and mentoring
September: Announcement of winners
