The Fijian fashion industry has a huge potential to become successful says Industry and Trade Minister, Premila Kumar.

Speaking at the first ever National Designer Awards, Kumar urged all stakeholders to work together with a common objective, saying the government will play its part by providing the necessary support to grow the industry.

She says the Fiji Fashion Council and the designers contribute to the development of Fiji’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

“In Fiji, while we enjoy fashion, innovation, culture and creativity, we also enjoy a unique advantage. We have re-invented our textile and clothing industry, to produce niche, high-end and now designer garments, because we don’t mass produce like large Asian manufacturers.”

Kumar says they want tourists coming to our shores to buy Fijian designs and the fashion industry needs to think big to make our designs better than well-known high street brands.

Samson Lee was given the Designer of the Year Award last night, Ilai Jikoiono received the Future Designer Award, People’s Choice Award went to Moira Solvalu, Jorja Naidu won Model of the Year while the Fashion Media Award went to Andhy Blake.

Naina Sayed-Khaiyum received special recognition for her contribution to the fashion industry.