In an enchanting soirée of glamour and creativity, the British Bangladeshi Fashion Council recently graced the industry with the INSPIRE Showcase. Set against the elegant backdrop of the British Bangladeshi Headquarters on the evening of Thursday, February 29th, this celebration unfolded as a sensational ode to the culmination of the INSPIRE, BARI, and Fashion and Textiles programmes, orchestrated in partnership with Streets of Growth, and funded by Foundation for Future London and Westfield Creative Fund.
Guests were welcomed to an immersive exhibition, accompanied by delectable refreshments, as they delved into the captivating world of the BARI programme participants. Among the standout luminaries were the brilliant artisans who have redefined the narrative of British Bangladeshi creatives.
Nowshin Prenon emerged as a textile virtuoso and designer extraordinaire, specialising in the art of weaving. Her creations are an intricate dance of material and process, weaving tales through vivid colours and elaborate techniques. Prenon’s masterpieces are a testament to her ability to construct each piece with a meticulous attention to detail, playing with lines and colours that elevate her work to a realm of unrivalled sophistication.
Shama Kun, in a stroke of sustainable brilliance, unveiled her collection, “Reviving the Waste.” These one-of-a-kind upcycled jackets, born from discarded cotton Saree sourced in the bustling markets of Dhaka, Bangladesh, redefine the essence of eco-conscious fashion. Kun’s creations transcend mere garments; they embody a harmonious fusion of tradition, creativity, and a commitment to a more sustainable future.
The woven tapestries of Anisah Yaminah serve as visual narratives, encapsulating nostalgia, memories, and cherished childhood moments. Yaminah seamlessly weaves her Bangladeshi heritage with London’s cosmopolitan roots, creating a melange of South Asian textiles interwoven with the vibrant tapestry of English community life. Her work, a captivating blend of colour, material, and storytelling, resonates with profound depth and cultural richness.
Tanjina Begum, with a profound introspection into her identity as a British Bangladeshi, explores personal experiences through the medium of woven textiles. Her designs serve as an intimate journey through photographs, family celebrations, and cultural shifts, each thread telling a poignant tale of her life. Begum’s exploration of themes through materials, patterns, and colour breathes life into her creations, creating an evocative narrative.
As the night unfolded, Fokrul Hoque, the visionary CEO of the British Bangladeshi Fashion Council, took centre stage with an inspiring speech, setting the tone for a captivating catwalk. The runway showcased the breathtaking garments born from the boundless creativity of INSPIRE and Fashion and Textile programme participants.
Rahemur Rahman, the Director of Training and Development at the Fashion Council, shared poignant reflections on his journey through the programmes. Diane Peters, the dynamic CEO of Streets of Growth, painted a vivid picture of the transformative impact on women’s lives, spotlighting the invaluable mentorship of Ruhela Begum.
Sarah Nelson, the Interim CEO of Foundation for Future London, graced the stage, expressing gratitude for the Foundation’s role in empowering local communities. Cllr Jahed Choudhury, the esteemed Speaker of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, extended heartfelt thanks for the profound impact these programs have had on upskilling the community, particularly empowering BAME women in the vibrant landscape of the fashion and creative industries.
The evening’s gracious host, BBC Asian Network’s Nadia Ali, added a touch of panache as she presided over the presentation of certificates with Sarah and Cllr Choudhury. These certificates with AQA qualifications in various skills such as the introduction to domestic sewing machines, garment designing, textile printing techniques, and sustainable fashion, symbolised the participants’ journey towards excellence.
The grand finale, a second enthralling catwalk, showcased the culmination of the women’s tireless efforts and creative brilliance. With each participant sharing their thoughts and experiences, Fokrul Hoque left the audience with words of inspiration, resonating far beyond the closing of the evening.
As the night came to a close, guests continued to network, forging connections that promise to shape the future of British Bangladeshi fashion. The INSPIRE Showcase wasn’t merely a fashion event; it was an immersive experience that transcended boundaries, celebrating the indomitable spirit and creativity of these remarkable women.
