Naika Colas, a sustainable designer and recent graduate of the Design Management Graduate program (DM ’17), was invited into the 2nd Round of Tommy Hilfigers’ 2018 Social Innovation Challenge.
Colas’ Jacques Louis clothing brand inspired Hilfiger and PVH Corp with its proposal to build a small scale factory in Haiti, where they will employ seamstresses to produce high quality eco-friendly clothing, teach free business design courses, and work with artists in the region. Her goal is to provide locals access to design houses across the globe, with hopes of boosting the economy and empowering the people of Haiti.
“Our brand has a strong history of mentoring and supporting talented individuals who have the drive to turn bold ideas into a reality,” said Tommy Hilfiger. “The future success of our industry depends on proactively discovering and nurturing innovative projects that can create real social change. The TOMMY HILFIGER Social Innovation Challenge is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on incredible ideas that could change the lives of people through a more positive and inclusive fashion landscape.”