Fabrics of Multicultural Australia (FOMA) in 2023 is hosting one of its largest creative industries showcase at Powerhouse Museum on Friday 23 June 2023. Proudly supported by In Country Partner Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commission and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade the 2023 reiteration of the FOMA platform will stimulate economic growth for the creative sector and generate bilateral trading opportunities while fostering social cohesion.
Lisa Havilah, CEO, said ‘The Powerhouse is proud to extend its support to Fabrics of Multicultural Australia (FOMA) and their ongoing efforts to celebrate excellence in fashion while supporting cultural expression. Working in the intersection between design, industry, and cultural heritage, FOMA provides an unparalleled opportunity to present the talent, innovation, and cultural richness of a diversity of Australian communities.’
From 3.30PM onwards, Australia’s premier cultural institution, the Powerhouse Museum will witness one of the most diverse engagements of foreign governments and artists. Through the lens of arts and culture, FOMA will showcase 5 local and 5 leading international designers across two major events, the publicly accessible Artistic and Cultural Exhibit and Runway Show.
Speaking at the official In-country partnership announcement of the Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commission with FOMA, Daniel Stow, Trade Commissioner reiterated ‘The Fijian apparel and fashion industry has a rich heritage, with several fashion brands being sold & marketed all over the world. Fiji is home to many leading designers producing quality garments that we thrilled to showcase as part of this year’s FOMA Exhibit and Runway. Many school uniforms, workwear, and sporting jerseys (AFL & NRL) found in Australia are manufactured in Fiji – one of the economy’s most thriving sectors with well-established, first-class infrastructure. As the transportation and manufacturing hub of the Pacific, Fiji is positioned to share its rich trading culture through platforms like FOMA, that provide the opportunity to further strengthen economic activity through its network.’
FOMA was established in 2018 by entrepreneur Sonia Sadiq Gandhi, Chief Executive of multi-award-winning events enterprise, Gandhi Creations, to promote the diversity of our Australian creative industries sector, whilst providing an opportunity to connect international brands who are looking to invest and grow in the Australian market.
Participating Embassies and their diverse diasporas include The Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commission, The Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco, The Embassy of El Salvador in Australia, The Embassy of Israel in Australia.
Participating Local and International Artists and Designers across Exhibit and Fashion Runway include Danielle Mate, Indigenous Brand Ambassador and Cultural Partner, Elaradi FIJI, Holyland Civilians, Hupfeld Evers Hoerder, JAVAD, Kis-Simba, LavaLani Designs, My Paloma, NAROK Designs, Pooja’s Couture, SMODA, Sugarose and Tracey Anne Farrington known for her famous Bondi Beach Bag Co brand.
Admission to FOMA 2023 Showcase and the Powerhouse Museum is complimentary on registration.
FOMA in 2023 will present 6 satellite projects, empower 16 BRANDS, while presenting works of two First Nations designers, all delivered across a 12-month period.
The Faces of FOMA is another ground-breaking concept in Australia. Representing over 33 diverse cultures across the program, showcasing Australia’s diversity in beauty.
To view the complete FOMA 2023 Exhibit and Runway Program including Artist profiles, please click https://catalogs.gandhicreations.com.au/foma-2023/full-view.html
