In our interconnected world, fashion reflects social changes, textile sector creates jobs and serves as a diplomatic tool, showcasing its immense influence. Through Niyara Useinova’s discussion we explore how fashion can be leveraged to promote cross-cultural understanding, foster international cooperation, and celebrate the rich diversity of our world.
At the time Niyara was born in Middle Asia, during Soviet Union, Uzbekistan was the 6th largest Cotton producer. Russia developed road infrastructure, connected commercial cities to Central Asia. Kokand, Khiva, Bukhara became main suppliers of cotton which was called white gold, to Russian textile industry. Cotton production created thousands jobs throughout cotton value chain. My mother started her career as a fashion designer, later was managed textile factory with 700 workers. This atmosphere of fashion, textile and job creation made impact on my future vision regarding job creation.
Fashion industry should not exist in a legal vacuum. Fashion diplomacy allows countries to showcase their unique crafts and creativity through cultural exchanges.
By combining fashion and diplomacy, the industry can work towards becoming more impactful. Designers with hands-on projects can learn to utilize fashion as a tool for promoting cross-cultural understanding and fostering international cooperation. As the fashion landscape continues to evolve, these designers will contribute to driving positive change while promoting harmony on a global level.
