2008: Fashion with a conscience

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Tags: fashion, SBS, winter-2011

Sarah Duncan, Bachelor of Journalism

Some of Sarah Duncan's designs

In October last year, Ms Duncan opened the web boutique Zafiro.com.au, selling her designs inspired by a trip through the Caribbean Coast region of Colombia.

“From a young age I have loved how it feels to get dressed up and look different; for me fashion has always been a fun, exciting way to express myself,” Ms Duncan said.

Upon returning to Brisbane, she began working on her first collection, which was filled with orange, pink, yellow and purple prints.

After a successful launch party in November, Ms Duncan knew she had created something unique for the Australian market.

“I sent a press release to the editor of Vogue Australia about who we are and what we do and they were really supportive,” she said.

“The fashion editor then encouraged me to keep going and to be sure to let her know of any of our future projects, which is very inspiring.”

Vogue Australia featured Zafiro as part of their “Vogue Loves” series in January.

Since then, Style, Black Dove, Brisbane News and mX have also recognised the brand.

The name Zafiro – which means sapphire in Spanish – is just one way Ms Duncan recognises the communities that inspired her company.

Partnering with design groups in Colombia, Ms Duncan works with manufacturers that train and employ single mothers from low socio-economic communities as seamstresses.

“We are working with a really beautiful group of people here in Australia and in Colombia,” she said.

Ms Duncan travels to Colombia once a year and is continually corresponding with manufacturers and designers through Skype.

“While Zafiro is a brand and company, we really hope to make an impact on the people we work with,” she said.

And when she can, Ms Duncan goes one step further, setting aside a percentage of profits from various events for groups like Room to Read and Project WOSE (Women Organisation for Sustainable Empowerment).

She said her time as a journalism student, learning about ethical responsibilities and grassroots organisations, instilled a motivation to give back.

“At UQ I learnt about citizen journalism and communication for social change; this has influenced what Zafiro has become,” she said.

“In the long term I would like to have Zafiro funding different projects and charities in line with our philanthropic ideals and perhaps even create a scholarship program for kids in developing countries.”

Ms Duncan is also designing a line of shoes and is gathering ideas for accessories and handbags.

“I think it’s important to set a goal and go for it,” she said.

“New York Fashion Week here we come!”

By Allison Rock

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