ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Strategic Collaboration Strengthens Creative Industry and Local Talent was the key message shared by Aruba Fashion Week (AFW), which proudly highlights its ongoing collaboration with the Aruba Department of Culture (DCA). This strategic alliance aims to develop, strengthen, and raise the visibility of local creative talent and the creative industry in Aruba.
Over the past three years, this collaboration has become a cornerstone in the growth of the creative sector on the island, with a particular focus on young talent that has yet to be fully discovered or developed. Through a sustainable and structured approach, the two institutions are actively contributing to positioning creativity as a driver of cultural, social, and economic development.
The mission of Aruba Fashion Week has always focused on creating a platform for local talent, fostering artistic expression, and connecting Aruba’s creativity with regional and international stages. The Aruba Department of Culture shares this vision, recognizing the creative industry as a key sector for economic diversification, cultural identity, and innovation. The alignment of missions between the two parties has created a solid foundation for programs, opportunities, and initiatives that directly impact the local creative community.
The Role of the Creative Industry and DCA’s Support: As a governmental institution, the Aruba Department of Culture plays a fundamental role in supporting and strengthening the creative industry, acting as a facilitator of cultural policy, strategic direction, and access to development opportunities. Through collaborations with platforms such as Aruba Fashion Week, the DCA promotes a creative ecosystem that encourages professionalization, creative entrepreneurship, and the export of Aruba’s talent to international markets.
The creative industry, which includes fashion, design, art, music, and other cultural expressions, is recognized as a sector with great potential to create jobs, foster identity, and project Aruba on a global scale. The collaboration with AFW affirms the DCA’s commitment to ensuring that local talent is not only visible but also sustainable and competitive internationally.
Through this collaboration, Aruba Fashion Week and the Aruba Department of Culture have successfully propelled several emerging designers, artists, and creatives, providing them with professional guidance, exposure, practical experience, and a platform to showcase their work. The impact of this collaboration is clearly visible in the progress of local talent, some of whom have successfully positioned themselves beyond the borders of Aruba.
A clear example of the success of this collaboration is Aruban designer Quiana Cronie, founder of the brand Cashaca. Thanks to continuous support, a creative structure, and the platform offered during the past year, Quiana Cronie will present her collection officially at New York Fashion Week in February. This is not only a personal achievement but also a triumph for the Aruban creative industry and concrete proof of how investing in local talent can lead to global recognition.
Aruba Fashion Week firmly believes that its collaboration with the Aruba Department of Culture is key to the future of the creative industry on the island. Both well-known and emerging talent need opportunities, support, and visibility to fully flourish. The continuation of this partnership will continue to contribute to creating a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive creative ecosystem.
Both Aruba Fashion Week and the Aruba Department of Culture express their mutual gratitude for the trust, commitment, and support provided over the past three years. It is hoped that this collaboration will continue to grow, ensuring that Aruba’s creativity, art, and talent continue to shine, both in Aruba and on the international stage.
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