Qataris Abroad
“There are a lot of organisations that support young
artists and other creatives, but there were very few
dedicated to young emerging talent from the fashion
There are a lot of
organisations that support
young artists and other
creatives, but there were
very few dedicated to young
emerging talent from the
fashion industry, so I felt it
was the right time to step in.
Tania Fares, Founder and Co-Chair of
Fashion Trust Arabia
industry, so I felt it was the right time to step in.”
“You can be extremely talented, but not know the
ins-and-outs of the industry, especially the business
and operational aspects. Having great partners and
mentors along the way can really shape your career as a
designer.”
She adds: “With no support system similar to that of
Fashion Trust in the UK, I realised that it was time for me
to bring the same level of opportunities to young Arab
designers. It was more than production, distribution,
and exposure that the fashion communities lacked.”
“They needed the guidance that we knew we could
provide. I ran the idea by Her Excellency Sheikha Al
Mayassa who has graciously offered her support, and
that is how Fashion Trust Arabia came to inception.”
Early on, she established networks to further the
work of young designers, working first with the
British Fashion Council to create a support system for
young British designers, co-founding its charitable
arm, the Fashion Trust.
She says: “Being based in London was a great
way for me to build relationships with designers.
Today, we have supported the careers of numerous
designers such as Emilia Wickstead, Roksanda,
Mary Katrantzou, Marques Almeida and Palmer
In March 2019, FTA saw its first fashion prize being
awarded. It is made up of three pillars: a financial grant,
international recognition, and a one-year mentorship.
Supported by partner matchesfashion.com, some of the
designers will see their collections stocked in Harrods.
Fares tells finalists: “Be authentic and stay true to who
you are and what your brand represents. It will help you
achieve recognition. It is very easy to fall into trends and
what others are doing, but maintaining your identity is
what will make you stand out.”
Harding and now with Fashion Trust Arabia, we are Fares, who currently splits her time between Lebanon,
supporting the six winners of the 2019 prize.” London and Los Angeles, believes the future is bright for
In particular, she wants to empower Arab youth in
Arab fashion.
design. She explains: “Empowering young fashion She says: “There is real potential for young Arab
designers is something I can personally relate to with designers and Middle Eastern-based labels with the
the many challenges I faced with my own label back international market, and we’re looking forward to
in 2007.” showing it.”
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March 2019
saw finalists
showcase their
best pieces in
Doha, Qatar
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