UMENCO x Australian Fashion Council

We are in the midst of the most turbulent of times, and as I write to you it is hard to know where to begin – the crisis of the pandemic, months spent in lockdown, the impact on business, and then the unspeakable acts of racial injustice which sparked a movement. It signals a turning point, a moment for change and I, like so many of you, have been thinking about diversity, inclusivity, and how to make a difference. This is our essay on diversity.

At UMENCO, our continued resolve to give back, and provide equal opportunity for all, sits at the heart of what drives us and the work that we do.

In furthering these efforts, we are proud to partner with the Australian Fashion Council to begin an affiliate partnership that will herald in a number of new initiatives in support of First Nations, and special needs or differently-abled-bodied individuals.

“Since the beginning, UMENCO has committed to doing work that gives back, and that champions equality and inclusivity. These new initiatives are reflective of that, and are a culmination of our support for three of our most fundamental passions: the Australian fashion industry, diversity, and the incredible work of Giant Steps. We are both grateful and proud to partner with the AFC to further our efforts across these areas."

Angela Briggs, UMENCO Director

“Since the beginning, UMENCO has wholeheartedly committed to doing work that gives back, and that champions equality and inclusivity. These new initiatives are reflective of that, and are a culmination of our support for three of our most fundamental passions: the Australian fashion industry, diversity, and the incredible work of Giant Steps. We are both grateful and proud to partner with the AFC to further our efforts across these areas."

Angela Briggs

In association with the AFC, we are extending an opportunity to recruit one role per business to the following organisations or individuals, in exchange for a donation to our charity partner Giant Steps:

-First Nations designers, whose businesses foreground responsible design practices.

-Any AFC members who are special needs or differently-abled body clothing providers.

-Any AFC members who are demonstrably working towards creating a range of accessible clothing for special needs or differently-abled-bodied individuals.

 

 

In duality with our dedicated initiatives, we are also offering AFC members an individual offer on the recruitment of roles through UMENCO.

To explore these opportunities, express interest or to become involved, please visit the AFC website or email [email protected].

These initiatives represent our ongoing commitment to elevating and mainstreaming the voices of Indigenous designers and differently-abled-bodied/special needs individuals across the fashion industry, and beyond.