Aruba Fashion Week, in collaboration with New York Fashion Week FDLA (Fashion Designers of Latin America), proudly announced that Quiana Cronie, creative director of the fashion brand Cashaca, is the official winner of the Rising Star Award 2025.
This prestigious recognition was awarded following an official evaluation conducted during Aruba Fashion Week 2025 by Albania Rosario, CEO of New York Fashion Week FDLA, as part of the Emerging Talent Support Program for Latin America and the Caribbean. Her presence and visionary leadership underscored a shared commitment to elevating designers with strong cultural identity and global potential.
“Supporting emerging talent from Latin America and the Caribbean lies at the heart of FDLA’s mission,” said Rosario. “Our collaboration with Aruba Fashion Week allows us to identify authentic voices and provide them with real access to international platforms. Together, we are building bridges that empower designers from the region to dream bigger and step confidently onto the global stage.”
Following an in-depth evaluation carried out with FDLA’s curatorial committee — including Honorary President José Forteza and FDLA Godmother Agatha Ruiz de la Prada — the jury selected the designer whose work most strongly demonstrated international readiness while authentically expressing Aruba’s creative DNA.
The selection process was highly competitive. Iconic local designer Ronchi de Cuba participated with his collection “Un Dia na Aruba,” alongside established talent Andrew Steba, who presented “Mondi Mistico” (Mystical Worlds). The strength, diversity, and maturity of these collections made the final decision exceptionally difficult and highlighted the depth of creative excellence emerging from Aruba.
Ultimately, the committee unanimously selected Quiana Cronie for her collection “Sopi Aw’i Playa.” Her work stood out for its impeccable conceptual foundation, refined execution, and powerful storytelling, positioning her as a distinctive and credible voice in contemporary fashion.
As part of this prestigious collaboration, Aruba Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week FDLA will take Aruba’s talent, vision, and creative essence to the global fashion epicenter — the runways of New York Fashion Week, taking place from February 12 to 17, 2026, in New York City.
Cronie’s participation in New York Fashion Week represents more than a personal achievement. It serves as a powerful platform to position Aruba within one of the world’s most prominent international markets. Her presence highlights the island as a destination that extends far beyond its renowned beaches — one that embraces fashion, luxury lifestyle, creativity, and wellness. Through design, storytelling, and cultural expression, Aruba is presented as a sophisticated and forward-thinking hub of contemporary living on the global stage.
“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the trust placed in my work,” said Cronie. “This moment reminds me that coming from a small island does not limit how big you can dream. I am proud to represent Aruba and excited to take Cashaca to the next level on an international stage.”
Aruba Fashion Week congratulated Quiana Cronie on this remarkable achievement and expressed its continued support for her rise on the global fashion scene.
“This recognition represents more than an award; it is an opportunity to showcase Aruba’s creative excellence internationally,” said Angel Leon, Director of Aruba Fashion Week. “Quiana’s work reflects authenticity, cultural essence, and a forward-looking design language that resonates far beyond our borders.”
Looking ahead, Aruba Fashion Week reaffirmed its commitment — alongside local and international partners — to fostering the growth of the island’s fashion and creative industries. AFW invites emerging and undiscovered talent to connect and become part of this growing ecosystem via www.arubafashionweek.com.
Photo Credtis : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/disenador-local-quiana-cronie-a-gana-rising-star-2025
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