DUBAI: Qatar’s star-studded Fashion Trust Arabia has cancelled its fifth edition due to the “ongoing and deeply distressing humanitarian crisis in Palestine,” organizers announced on Tuesday.
In a statement released on the event’s page, organizers said: “Fashion Trust Arabia has always been dedicated to fostering young designers from the MENA Region. We firmly believe in the transformative power of art and creativity to transcend boundaries and unify communities.
“However, in light of the ongoing and deeply distressing humanitarian crisis in Palestine we have taken the decision to cancel our fifth annual Awards Ceremony, which was set to take place last month, and all our upcoming activities. We have made this decision out of solidarity and respect,” the statement read.
The organization said that in the coming weeks, it will be highlighting – on social media – the rich history of Palestinian culture and fashion in collaboration with its diverse network of designers.
“We believe that sharing and championing culture is sorely needed, especially in such moments as now,” the statement added. “Our hearts are very heavy, but it is our responsibility to persist in our mission. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the talents and aspirations of young designers, acknowledging that a peaceful environment is vital for their growth and innovation.”
Fashion Trust Arabia is a non-profit organization that provides financial support, guidance and mentorship to emerging designers from across the Middle East and North Africa region.
The event is known for attracting industry heavyweights from around the world, with last year’s ceremony hosting the likes of Bella Hadid, Naomi Campbell, Karolina Kourkova, Valentino’s creative director Pierpaolo Picciolini, British models Jourdan Dunn and Poppy Delevingne, former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo, British actress Jodie Turner-Smith, US model Jasmine Tookes and US Somali model Halima Aden.
