Fashion Trust Arabia relocated its sixth edition from Doha to Marrakech, following a one-year break due to political instability in the Middle East. Under the patronage of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser and co-chaired by her daughter, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, alongside Lebanese entrepreneur Tania Fares, the Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) awards substantial financial grants and tailored mentorships to seven emerging fashion and accessory designers from the MENA region, helping them grow or jumpstart their brands. At this year’s lavish award ceremony at El Badi Palace, Sheika Al Mayassa introduced the nominees, emphasizing the creativity of regional talents.
“We remain aware of the profound suffering around us,” she remarked. “Last year, in the face of tremendous loss of so many lives, we made the decision to cancel the FTA. This year, however, we move forward with renewed determination, commitment, and confidence in the power of culture.
Design has the ability to encourage dialogue, foster mutual respect, and build human bridges in a divided world.” The jury, which included Olivier Rousteing, Coperni’s Arnaud Vaillant and Sébastien Meyer, Ludovic de Saint Sernin, Duran Lantink, and Giambattista Valli, granted the eveningwear award to Qatar-based designer Yasmin Mansour, whose voluminous pleated creations had bold presence and sculptural appeal. The ready-to-wear prize was scooped up by Egyptian-born Nadine Mosallam with a collection of body-inclusive j.