Communities at Work, an event organized by Michelle Francine Ngonmo of Afro Fashion Association, served as a significant platform bringing together BIPOC talents and representatives from the creative industry. With the support of Vogue Italia and the presence of Head Of Editorial Content Francesca Ragazzi, the event during Milan Fashion Week provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by marginalized communities within the fashion system. From Anna Wintour’s encouraging words to the powerful speeches of BIPOC talents like Edward Buchanan, the event highlighted the importance of diversity and allyship in the fashion world.

The event, expertly hosted by fashion creative Tamu McPherson, featured discussions on the need for mentorship programs, long-term inclusion of diverse voices, and the creation of spaces to support new talent. The emphasis on alliance and amplifying BIPOC voices, as reiterated by Francesca Ragazzi, showcased Vogue Italia’s commitment to driving change in the industry. Through the voices of BIPOC talents like Susanna Owusu Twumwah and Isabella Sozinho, the event emphasized the necessity of tangible actions beyond mere representation.

With notable figures like Sara Sozzani Maino and Diego Della Valle expressing their support for the initiative, the event underscored the significance of providing opportunities and platforms for young talents from diverse backgrounds. As Laetita Loffredo highlighted, events like Communities at Work play a crucial role in fostering inclusivity and honoring the legacy of trailblazers like Virgil Abloh. Join us on a journey through the intersection of creativity, diversity, and allyship in the fashion industry, as we witness the power of unity and representation in shaping a more inclusive future.The fashion industry is a vibrant and energetic space, but not all voices have the same opportunities to be heard and valued. Michelle Francine Ngonmo, through the Afro Fashion Association, is a driving force that advocates for talented creatives who may struggle to break into the mainstream. In a world where diversity and inclusion are essential, individuals like Christel Abboud, Byron Rosero, Eileen Akbaraly, and many others share their experiences as BIPOC creatives in Italy, navigating challenges of identity, representation, and recognition.

From the delicate balance of embracing cultural identity without being tokenized to the struggle of being recognized beyond stereotypes, these creatives shed light on the complexities they face in the fashion industry. Gisèle Claudia Ntsama highlights the lack of opportunities for black professionals in prominent roles, while Isabella Sozinho discusses the challenges of being pigeonholed into projects focused solely on diversity.

As the Toledo Sisters emphasize the importance of breaking age barriers in creativity and Shivin Singh reflects on the Eurocentric nature of the industry, it becomes evident that there is a need for more inclusivity, understanding, and appreciation for diverse perspectives in the fashion world. Join us on a journey through the experiences and aspirations of these talented individuals as they strive to make their mark and reshape the narrative of fashion in Italy.In Italy, BIPOC designers face challenges of being underpaid and discriminated against, struggling to access equal opportunities compared to their Italian colleagues. The need for a more supportive infrastructure that provides fair pay, mentorship programs, and unbiased platforms for showcasing work is emphasized by creatives like Steve French. The lack of diversity in the creative industries in Italy is a point of criticism, with calls for inclusivity to go beyond mere presence to actively shaping narratives. Susanna Owusu Twumwah, a Diaspora & Migration Expert, advocates for a decolonized communication space that truly represents the diverse voices in Italy, emphasizing the importance of competence over racialization. This narrative of redefining inclusivity and representation is explored through various perspectives in the March 2025 issue of Vogue Italia.

Trailer: Step into the world of BIPOC creatives in Italy as they navigate challenges of discrimination and lack of opportunities. Join the voices advocating for a more inclusive and diverse creative industry, where fair pay, mentorship, and unbiased platforms are essential for thriving. Explore the innovative approaches to communication and representation, as individuals like Susanna Owusu Twumwah redefine narratives and push for a decolonized space in Italy. Discover the stories and perspectives shaping a more plural and competent creative landscape in the pages of Vogue Italia.