For the first time in Egypt, the country’s top fashion insiders have gathered to discuss aspects of the industry. Fashion Talk is a new project that aims to support one of Egypt’s most flourishing industries by inviting unique guests to discussions.
The newly commenced project is Bazarna’s way to support the industry through a series of regular events that will unite experts from different parts of the business. Each event is expected to focus on a different matter to round up as many problems and initiatives as possible.
Earlier in December, a handful of prominent women in the industry gathered for a brunch at Capital Business Park in Sheikh Zayed. The brunch included designers, photographers, entrepreneurs, and media insiders and made up a diverse group of women that resulted in a well-rounded conversation.
Moderated by Fustany’s founder and editor in-chief Amira Azzouz, the talk tackled some of the main problems designers tend to face in the industry as well as ways they could aid the scene to prosper.
Designer Yasmine Yeya discussed a few key points including the common problems designers face when dealing with craftsmen as well as the government. She also highlighted the mistaken stereotypes related to designers.
“We should create a syndicate to protect the rights of designers. On the other hand, we should train workers to raise the standard of quality,” Yeya said. “The government should also facilitate importing raw materials; their regulations hinder creative work. In Egypt, it is easier to sell something imported than to create it locally.”
Furthermore, they made sure to go through the intricate relationship between designers and media insiders including the latter’s criteria for worthy artists.
Walking the same line, designer Nada Akram started a discussion regarding the importance of proper education and the benefits of creating solid job descriptions for each fashion job. “Education is essential to understand the fundamental aspects of fashion. Talent is important but it is not enough,” Akram said.
The group surely agreed on the importance of taking solid steps towards creating an authorised entity that would represent fashion experts.
“The chamber of minor industries has a special department specialised in defining each industry’s key problems and seek governmental solutions for it. The board currently has a jewellery and furniture representatives but they still do not have a fashion specialist,” event manager at Capital Business Park said
