Putting their corporate skills into a fashion show for charity
View(s):The young, soon to be alumni of the MAS Holdings, Deutsche Bank, Dialog Axiata and 3M Summer Internship 2014 programme know that it’s not just what you do that matters-it’s how you do it that really counts. So when they present ‘Akasha’, a fashion show for charity next weekend, you can only expect the team to pull out all the stops. After all, it’s a project for a worthy cause, and they’re all set to put those well honed corporate skills learned over the past few weeks to best use.
With some of the schoolkids they will be helping
‘Akasha’ promises a line-up of designers already well known in local fashion circles. Charini Suriyage has found fame for her delicate, utterly feminine lingerie and women’s wear. She was the first Sri Lankan to take part in London Fashion Week and launched her concept studio at Colombo Fashion Week 2008. Catherine Rawson is the proprietor and creative hand behind The Old Railway in Galle, where she designs bright, sophisticated wear for the discerning customer. Gihan Ediriweera is a graduate of the Lanka Institute of Fashion Technology, and has become known for his creations drawing from rich traditions and heritage from both home and away.
Joining them will be Shanika and Yasisurie, along with former Miss Sri Lanka Sabrina Herft, presenting her collection for the first time on a ramp. Shanika and Yasisurie are both upcoming designers, and Sabrina Herft needs little introduction-she was Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Universe in 2012, and recently announced the launch of her own label. Serenading the designs with the soulful music they deserve will be Sheaam Deen, Shamistha, Shaun, Ravi Bandu and Asanka Sahabandu.
Akasha will raise funds for The Next Chapter, a CSR initiative by the summer interns involved in the programme. This year they hope to raise funds for six underprivileged schools in the outskirts of the Kalutara District; these schools were identified to be in dire need of basic supplies and equipment for a conducive learning environment- the show will raise funds for the purchase of these materials.
‘Akasha’ takes place on August 16 at the newly opened Arcade at Independence Square at 7 p.m. Tickets available on www.tickets.lk- see the event’s Facebook page for more details.