Women, Creation and Production: A Haitian Celebration

This week, our Founder Donna Karan is off to Haiti. Among many exciting events and happenings, Donna will be participating in the Annual Women, Creation and Production Trade show, which is organized by “Voix Essencielle” -Femmes en Democratie, a Haitian nonprofit organization. This international trade show promotes Haiti’s creativity by offering a platform for Haitian women entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their talents and stunning artistry. The experience brings together a community inspired by innovative, handmade, fair trade products.

With Mother’s Day on all of our hearts and minds this weekend, we wanted to take a moment to especially honor these soulful, creative women of Haiti and their entrepreneurial ventures – a truly symbolic way to celebrate women, mothers and the rebirth of Haiti.

FASHION FOR HAITI: ONE MILLION HEARTS

Friends of Urban Zen,

We are pleased to share that Urban Zen has collaborated with eBay and the Council of Fashion Designers of America to launch Fashion For Haiti: One Million Hearts. Nearly 150 designers have put their personal touch on locally-crafted Haitian papier mâché hearts that were generously donated by DKNY.

From April 22- May 2, each personalized designer heart will be auctioned off exclusively on eBay, the world ’s largest marketplace and cause commerce leader. The net proceeds of Fashion for Haiti: One Million Hearts will be used to support the Urban Zen Foundation’s efforts with Haitian artisans – promoting economic development through job creation and vocational education, helping raise awareness and highlighting the creativity of the artisans of Haiti.

In the words of Urban Zen founder, Donna Karan, “You hold the heart of Haiti in your hands.”

The Tribeca Film Festival – Bringing Together a Community of Creativity

Art, inspiration, creativity and celebrating community are integral pieces of the Urban Zen philosophy. We’re fortunate to be based in New York City which offers a vibrant backdrop for diverse artistry and people with a penchant for talent. Currently, the Tribeca Film Festival is underway and the city is bursting with creative energy. We wanted to take a moment and give a shout out to our home base – a community we are always honored to be a part of.

We were also delighted to have the Urban Zen Center be home to Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen’s dinner honoring the Festival. Check out WWD’s coverage of that HERE.