Prada Group and UNFPA expand fashion training program to Mexico

Prada Group and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have expanded their first-of-its-kind fashion training program, ‘Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears’, to Mexico. 

The expansion, announced just ahead of International Women’s Day, seeks to mentor aspiring fashion professionals while fostering self-agency in sexual and reproductive health.

Building upon its successful implementation in Ghana and Kenya since its launch in 2021, the focus shifts to Querétaro, Mexico, where 30 women artisans from indigenous and surrounding communities will benefit from the program’s resources. These artisans, with backgrounds in weaving and embroidery, will receive training to enhance their technical, artistic, and financial skills.

Initially launched in September 2023 with a select group of mothers aged between 18 to 50, the project targets women who previously operated their businesses independently within family models. Often working from small workshops in their homes, these artisans supplemented their income by selling crafts at local markets in Querétaro.

Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group head of corporate social responsibility, said: “Through this partnership with UNFPA, we have witnessed how fashion combined with education, can become a powerful instrument of change and empowerment, complemented by the participants’ natural and effortless skills. Our goal is to empower and instill hope for a brighter future to all involved as we continue our mission of building a more inclusive society.” 

Over the course of six months, participants will engage in a series of training sessions and workshops designed to equip them with both technical fashion skills and knowledge about sexual and reproductive health. The program aims not only to enhance their abilities but also to empower them to make informed decisions about their well-being. Additionally, the project will showcase their unique cultural heritage, providing them with a platform to celebrate their craftsmanship.

In collaboration with the local nonprofit organization Nest, the initiative will also focus on providing business development skills and financial literacy to the participants. Upon completion of the program, participants will have access to Nest’s library of business development resources tailored to assist them in establishing handicraft businesses within their communities.

Malika Savell Cruz, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer, Prada Group, The Americas, added: “We are thrilled to further fortify our partnership with UNFPA as we expand the ‘Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears’ program into Mexico. This evolution underscores our commitment to continue championing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fashion industry. Initiatives like these empower the next generation of creatives while promoting cultural dialogue, understanding, and nurturing a more inclusive global community.”