At PVBLIC Foundation, we are proud to continue advancing our mission of fostering resilience, economic prosperity, and social equity in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) through innovative initiatives. We are thrilled to share that the Council on Sustainable Fashion and Design of Grenada (CSFDG) has been awarded a grant from PVBLIC’s Fashion Impact Fund (FIF) to support their flagship program, the Kaylia Couturier Program.
This grant represents a groundbreaking moment not only for CSFDG, but for the Caribbean’s fashion industry as a whole. CSFDG is the first Caribbean-based organization to receive a grant from the Fashion Impact Fund, underscoring the region’s increasing importance in the global sustainable fashion movement. As Shannen Henry, founder of CSFDG, remarked: “The Fashion Impact Fund’s support of the Kaylia Couturier Program creates a transformative partnership for Grenada and the wider Caribbean. It not only provides us with crucial resources but also sets a pioneering example for collaboration between fashion hubs and developing nations. Together, we are addressing the unique challenges of Small Island Developing States and promoting sustainable fashion practices that can be models for other nations around the world.”
Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities
At the heart of the Fashion Impact Fund is PVBLIC Foundation’s commitment to empowering women and creating pathways to education, employment, and economic inclusion. Kerry Bannigan, Managing Director of PVBLIC Foundation, emphasized, “We are proud to support the Council on Sustainable Fashion and Design of Grenada through the Fashion Impact Fund. This initiative not only empowers women but also aligns with our broader vision of driving social change through the creative industries. Fashion is a powerful tool for economic development, gender equality, and environmental sustainability. We are excited to see the lasting impact this program will have on the women of Grenada.” The Kaylia Couturier Program, set to run from February to August 2025, is the perfect embodiment of these goals. This program will teach local artisans high-quality, sustainable fashion production techniques, from sewing and pattern making to the use of premium natural fibers. By equipping women with these valuable skills, CSFDG is helping to nurture a new generation of fashion leaders and entrepreneurs.
Building a Sustainable Fashion Hub in Grenada
A significant portion of the grant will be allocated to renovating the CSFDG Studio, a co-working space designed to foster creativity and collaboration. Located in Montrose, St. Patrick, Grenada, the studio will serve as a creative hub where artisans can access essential equipment, resources, and materials to bring their projects to life. The space will feature two fully operational sewing studios on the upper floor, a collaborative learning area on the lower floor, and an outdoor workspace that reconnects participants with the natural surroundings. This studio will serve as a dynamic environment where local artisans can enhance their skills, collaborate on projects, and bring new ideas to fruition.
In addition to local training, the Kaylia Couturier Program will offer an international exchange component that aims to elevate the participants' craft to a global level. Through virtual training programs led by experts from leading institutions, participants will gain valuable insights into the global fashion landscape. Select participants will also have the opportunity to travel to Biella, Italy, a renowned textile hub, to work with cutting-edge equipment and collaborate with skilled Italian artisans. This experience will allow Grenadian designers to learn directly from industry leaders, providing them with invaluable exposure and long-term opportunities in the global fashion industry. By fostering cross-continental collaborations, the program is designed to strengthen Grenadian artisans' access to materials, knowledge, and resources, allowing them to build lasting careers in the fashion sector.
By providing artisans with the tools and knowledge they need, CSFDG is positioning Grenada as a leader in sustainable fashion. The program’s focus on local production is particularly important, as it helps reduce reliance on imports, stimulates the local economy, and preserves the unique cultural heritage of the island.
A Shared Vision for Climate Resilience and Economic Growth
One of the key objectives of the Kaylia Couturier Program is to foster climate resilience by raising awareness about sustainable fashion practices. By teaching eco-conscious techniques and utilizing natural, sustainable materials, the program offers island communities a way forward that is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.
Impacting Women’s Lives in Grenada
The Fashion Impact Fund is not just about supporting programs—it’s about creating lasting change in the lives of the women who participate. The Kaylia Couturier Program will provide women with the training and opportunities they need to launch successful careers in the fashion industry. Upon completion, participants will have the chance to work with the Kaylia Group, gaining invaluable industry experience by producing high-quality garments for the brand.
For women in Grenada, this program presents a unique opportunity to break into an industry that has long been dominated by imported goods. By focusing on locally produced fashion that meets high standards of craftsmanship, the Kaylia Couturier Program is helping to bridge the gap between demand for quality products and local capacity to supply them. This not only creates employment opportunities for women but also strengthens the local economy by keeping tourism revenue within the community.
A Partnership for the Future
At PVBLIC Foundation, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Small Island Developing States. Our partnership with CSFDG is a key step in advancing this mission. By supporting women-led initiatives like the Kaylia Couturier Program, we are helping to create a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable future for the Caribbean and beyond.
The collaboration between PVBLIC Foundation and CSFDG represents more than just financial support—it is a partnership for change, one that sets the stage for a more inclusive and sustainable future for the Caribbean’s fashion industry. By supporting women, encouraging sustainable practices, and investing in local economies, we are helping to lay the groundwork for a brighter future, not only in Grenada but across the entire region.
For more information, visit PVBLIC Foundation.
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