In an inspiring celebration of International Women’s Day, Mercado Global held its annual Fashion Forward Gala at Tribeca 360 on March 7th, marking a milestone in its commitment to empowering Indigenous women and communities. The evening began with a VIP Cocktail Hour, setting the stage for an event that would highlight the significant contributions of leaders in fashion, finance, and philanthropy.
The Fashion Forward Gala is a renowned New York City event held to raise funds and awareness for Mercado Global. Mercado Global, a Brooklyn-based nonprofit, has dedicated decades to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of Indigenous women artisans in rural Latin America with the necessary skills to become independent entrepreneurs. This year’s event celebrated Mercado Global’s 20th year of serving these communities, while also honoring the fashion and corporate industry leaders who make this work possible.
This year, the gala honored four remarkable individuals who have been pivotal in advocating for women’s empowerment and pioneering their respective fields. Johanna Ortiz, CEO & Creative Director at her self-titled brand, Daniela Villegas, Founder and Jewelry Designer at Daniela Villegas Jewelry, Mayra Hernandez Gonzalez, Founder of Instituto Xilonen, and Andrea Lisher, Managing Director, Head of North America, Global Funds at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, were celebrated for their contributions and shared values with Mercado Global.
Johanna Ortiz expressed her honor to be recognized by an organization that champions the potential of women. “I am so honored to be recognized by Mercado Global – an organization that shares my unwavering belief in the power and potential of women. Through their work with artisan communities, they are creating local development and generating positive change globally,” she remarked, highlighting the global impact of Mercado Global’s initiatives.
“We could not dream of a better group of Honorees to help celebrate our 20th year anniversary Fashion Forward Gala,” says Ruth Álvarez-Degolia, Founder and Executive Director at Mercado Global.
Ruth Álvarez-Degolia, Founder and Executive Director at Mercado Global, reflected on the significance of the gala. “We could not dream of a better group of Honorees to help celebrate our 20th year anniversary Fashion Forward Gala. Johanna, Daniela, Andrea, and Mayra truly represent the core values behind the success of our organization. We are thrilled to gather with our supporters to celebrate our Honorees, and our past successes, and share a sneak peak into what the future has in store for Mercado Global.”
About Mercado Global
For nearly two decades, Mercado Global has been at the forefront of the ethical fashion movement, empowering Indigenous women through entrepreneurship. Partner artisans are equipped with the training, materials, and tools necessary to produce fashion accessories for some of the world’s leading brands. This collaboration between donors, retailers, and artisans is paving the way for a more ethical, sustainable, and just world.
Published by: Holy Minoza
