By Tirzah Rezende

 

For the third consecutive year, Universo MOLA Fashion Week, organized by the Fundacion Entre Soles y Lunas through its Universo MOLA program, has been a success. Consolidating itself as the leading fashion week in spreading sustainable practices in Latin America. The event culminated on Sunday, March 17 at the Hotel del Lago, Punta del Este, marking a milestone in the history of regenerative fashion throughout the region. More than an exhibition, it became a vibrant stage for inspiring debates and innovative proposals for the textile industry. 

 

During the three-day event, the fundamental importance of sustainable fashion in creating a more environmentally friendly industry was highlighted. Consolidating a firm commitment to more environmentally responsible practices and a deeper appreciation of our culture.

 

The collections presented during the event highlighted responsible approaches to design, production, and consumption, showing how fashion can combine aesthetics and ethics by prioritizing the use of recycled materials and low-impact manufacturing techniques. In addition, the event acted as a platform for various stakeholders to emphasize the importance of education in promoting a shift in consciousness towards a more sustainable future for the planet.

 

Highlighting the importance of a comprehensive education in the field of fashion, the event featured educational talks in collaboration with renowned universities such as the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED), led by Natalia Lodoño, Colombian designer and former student of IED Barcelona. On the other hand, ORT Uruguay University led a Q&A session with José Forteza, Senior Editor of Vogue Mexico and Latin America and global ambassador of Universo MOLA.

 

The IED provided a physical information space where the public could learn first-hand about the educational offerings of its headquarters in Spain and Italy, as well as obtain information about study plans, costs, scholarships, admission requirements, discounts, and promotions. The final touch was the conference "Slow Fashion in the Brand Essence", delivered by Natalia Londoño which allowed us to understand the perspective of a businesswoman. 

 

The ORT Uruguay University debuted with an innovative proposal: the launch of the Master in Fashion Management and Communication and the Specialization Diploma in Fashion Management and Business. These programs represent the first postgraduate courses specialized in fashion in the country, offering in-person and online modalities to adapt to the needs of active professionals.

 

In the talk led by the university, Forteza highlighted the importance of acquiring new skills to stand out in a highly competitive market. "We need the support of the academic, public and private sectors,"and he added: "We must address the challenges by promoting sustainability, without compromising the resources that make them marketable and that make business models successful."

 

Magister Sabrina Bianchi, teaching secretary of the EPAP, highlighted that the ORT Uruguay University programs are designed to provide graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the industry, including strategic management, commercial management, and communication skills.

 

These programs aim to prepare participants with the competencies necessary to lead and manage effectively in the ever-evolving fashion industry, preparing them for the current and future challenges of this exciting field.