The Partnership – “Fashion Expressions: The Stories She Wears” – Seeks to Advance & Mentor Aspiring Fashion Professionals & Promote Self-agency on Sexual & Reproductive Health expands its scope to women in Querétaro, Mexico 

The expansion of the project into Mexico was initiated in September 2023 with a select group of mothers, between ages 18-50, supporting their families. They are skilled embroiderers and weavers who are seeking opportunities to strengthen their production techniques and marketing skills. Prior to joining the program, the artisans selected were working independently, operating their businesses under family models, in small workshops from their homes, usually with their children. They earn an income by selling their crafts at local markets in Querétaro.

Prior to joining the program, the artisans selected were working independently, operating their businesses under family models, in small workshops from their homes, usually with their children. They earn an income by selling their crafts at local markets in Querétaro. Through a 6-month series of training sessions and workshops, this project will provide women with technical skills and resources that will not only equip them with knowledge but also empower them to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, as well as help showcase their unique cultural heritage. The training will be followed by an opportunity for industrial attachments under the leadership and guidance of experienced fashion professionals.

In addition to utilizing the technical skills of fashion, the program, in collaboration with local implementing partner Nest, a nonprofit organization working to advance gender equity and economic inclusion of artisans, will equip participants with business development skills and financial literacy through budgeting, sales, and merchandising, to further support their entrepreneurial endeavors and foster economic independence. Upon completion, the participants will have the opportunity to tap into Nest’s library of business development resources specifically designed to assist them with their entrepreneurial endeavors and establishing handicraft businesses within their communities. 

Mariarosa Cutillo, Chief of Strategic Partnerships, UNFPA, said: “The beauty of the UNFPA partnership with the Prada Group is that it places creativity at the center of building inclusive communities for women and girls. We have seen the impact of this model in Africa, using fashion to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and women’s economic empowerment, and are excited to see the results it can have for the women artisans from Querétaro, Mexico.”

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.” 

Rebecca van Bergen, Executive Director at Nest said: “Nest’s artisan business development programming is a unique complement to the Prada Group and UNFPA’s health-focused curriculum, which enables them to better support women holistically as they seek brighter futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.”