Photo Credit Rosi Di Stefano
Photo Credit Rosi Di Stefano
Ten Filipino designers will get the chance to showcase their work at the Fondazione Sozzani during Milan Fashion Week S/S 2026.
The FASHIONPhilippines Milan Mentorship Program 2025 is an initiative developed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), and the Philippine Fashion Coalition. Its mission is to support the next generation of Filipino designers through in-depth mentorship and the rare opportunity to present their work at Milan Fashion Week in September 2025.
Sara Sozzani Maino, a key figure behind the program, explained that it was built on a long-standing partnership with co-organizer Teresa “Tetta” Ortiz-Matera. “This partnership is thanks also to Teresa and the fact that she never gave up. Both of us were really eager to do this,” said Sozzani Maino. “We’ve been having talks for the last four years. We’ve always had the same vision of supporting new designers.”
Unlike many fashion initiatives that offer a one-time platform, this mentorship has been designed with continuity in mind. “Absolutely not. It’s not one shot,” she stressed. “To do projects that have value, it’s about at least having three editions. Otherwise, it would be a bit of a loss of energy, communication, and money.”
Applications for the program are open until June 13, and a highly experienced international jury will evaluate submissions. The jury includes Sara alongside renowned Italian distributor Riccardo Grassi, designer and LVMH Prize finalist Niccolò Pasqualetti, stylist Riccardo Terzo, digital content creator Ryle Tuvierra, buyer Giulia Demitri, retail expert Helena Boissonnas, and Fondazione Sozzani’s Silvia Bertocchi.
“Retail is very important, but so is representation,” Sozzani Maino explained. “Riccardo Grassi has 40 years of experience. Niccolò represents the new generation, and Terzo understands how to visually build a brand. Giulia brings deep market knowledge. It’s a jury that balances experience with fresh perspective.”
When asked what she looks for in potential mentees, Sozzani Maino pointed to creativity grounded in responsibility and authenticity. “I don’t use the word ‘sustainable’ because, for me, it’s about responsibility in all its forms; production, social, ethical,” she said. “We don’t need more clothes. But we can improve the process. It’s not about quantity. It’s about quality. I look for designers who are putting forward projects that aren’t just about themselves but about the process, the people behind it, and the story it tells.”
Beyond showcasing collections, the mentorship will provide practical tools for long-term success. Topics include intellectual property, international brand registration, and strategic planning. “Most of them maybe don’t even know where to begin,” said Sozzani Maino. “Sometimes they don’t even think the first thing they need to do is register the brand. And no, they don’t need to do a show in year two if they don’t even have the market.”
A key goal is helping designers stay true to themselves amid industry pressures. “I always say listen, but in the end, it’s your heart and your belief in your vision. Never compromise your values,” she advised. She recalled a designer who lost their identity after switching to trendy prints on showroom advice. “Maybe you don’t sell for two seasons, but if you believe in your work, stay committed. Encouraging doesn’t mean calling someone a genius, it means guiding them to stay on course.”
Sozzani Maino has long championed Filipino designers. “Ken Samudio, I supported him in 2013 or 2014. Ched Studio, I helped him for Pitti Uomo. And Jaggy Glarino. These are the three that come to mind,” she said. She highlighted the country’s unique creative voice. “There’s always a lot of colours, richness in embroidery, and a real sense of fun. That’s something special not everyone has.”
The mentorship ties directly to the Fondazione Sozzani’s mission. “When I joined four years ago, I brought in my pillars—education, responsibility, and new generation,” she explained. “Education doesn’t just happen in schools. It happens every day. That’s why we do tailor-made formats. Not a school, but programs made for real needs.”
The selected designers will present their work at Milan Fashion Week and connect with global buyers and media. “Don’t be afraid to ask. If there’s someone you admire, introduce yourself. Leave your card. That kind of connection can make all the difference,” she advised.
From April 21 to June 14, 2025, aspiring designers can submit their applications through the official FASHIONPhilippines Milan Mentorship Program website. In June 2025, the international jury will review and vet the entries, ensuring only the most promising talents are selected. The final list of chosen designers will be officially announced the same month.
