From the October 2017 issue of Vogue Arabia written by Katie Trotter.
Visionary, multitasker, fashion maverick – Bong Guerrero, founder of Fashion Forward, talks about the past, the future, and why nurturing homegrown talent continues to drive him.
Fashion Forward (FFWD), the successful and obviously sustainable regional platform for emerging talent, is entering its tenth season. Is there a certain level of confidence that comes with that?
Ten is a milestone number. I think to have survived and thrived is quite an achievement not only for myself, but mostly for the entire FFWD team, of whom I am immensely proud. What we have to remember is that we are an emerging platform, we don’t have the full scope and support system of a more mature market yet.
Interesting that you say “yet,” as there is no doubt that Middle Eastern design has become somewhat of a fascination. How do you think the global market relates?
There is a tremendous amount of international interest in diverse Middle Eastern talent; that I know. Someone told me recently that “modest is the new normal;” a trend that in a way was born from this region.
Does it ever get easier?
It’s never easy! Certain aspects of it does get easier, yes, but we’ve moved venues three times since we started five years a go. To mark our tenth season, we’ve just moved to the heart of Dubai Design District. That comes with a lot of new challenges – new formats, new layouts – but it keeps things fresh and compelling.
Anyone in particular to look out for this season?
We are thrilled to have secured the Syrian designer Nabil El Nayal, who was one of eight new talents shortlisted for the LVMH prize for young fashion designer this year. I am also personally excited for Karoline Lang and Lara Khoury from Lebanon, and Mashael Al Rajhi from Saudi Arabia. We also have the Egyptian designer Mohanad Kojak, an alumni of Project Runway Middle East. So yes, a lot of exciting talent and names to watch out for!
Looking back, what have been your defining moments?
Over the years, we have brought in fantastic names for our fashion talks, where we have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals. On a personal note, listening to Fern Mallis, who was widely credited with transforming New York Fashion Week into one of the big four, struck a chord with me. She spoke so candidly and honestly about the ups and downs of driving a platform and it really stayed with me.
It’s important to be humble in this industry, and a truism that those who work hard and appreciate the people around them prevail in the long run.
I learned early on that it’s always important to get a collective take on things, especially when you’re an emerging company. Of course it’s important to be inclusive, without compromising your vision, but I never understood those who don’t enjoy learning from others.
As one of the pioneers of growth in the market, what’s next in promoting digital innovation in the region?
Our phones have basically become an extension of our arms and mind space, so it’s inevitable that we go digital. E-commerce is fast inching out physical retail, but our region is on the rise with the recent launches of The Modist and Ounass. As a platform, FFWD continues to adapt and grow content for the ever-evolving digital space.
You are offering immense visibility via your platform. How else can we help young designers from the region succeed from a global standpoint?
Education is crucial. I am excited about the upcoming Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation. I think that will impact the industry hugely. Dubai and the rest of the Middle East are powerful when it comes to luxury consumerism and it’s very important that more support is given to regional talent through education, policy, and investment. We strongly believe in the fashion talent we have in the region and that some of them will go on to become successful global brands. It is our privilege and honor to be part of their journey.
Fashion Forward runs from October 26-28 at Dubai Design District. Fashionforward.ae