Hello Mrs. Valeriya Hjertenæs thank for joining us on this interview.
Its my pleasure to have this interview and to talk about Fashion Sustainability
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Mrs. Valeriya Hjertenaes is a dynamic leader at the intersection of beauty, intellect, and social responsibility. As Mrs. World Congeniality, she has captivated global audiences not only with her charm but with her unwavering commitment to championing causes that matter. Hailing from a multicultural background, with roots in both Norway and Ukraine, Valeriya embodies the strength and resilience of these cultures, while her work transcends borders.
With a PhD in Diversity Management and Sustainability, she is dedicated to reshaping the fashion industry and beyond through inclusive, eco-conscious solutions. Valeriya believes that sustainability must be a holistic approach, involving every stage of the product life cycle, and that promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is crucial for creating a future where businesses thrive while protecting the planet.
Her work highlights collaborations with sustainable fashion brands, like MYET, who use organic materials and partner with local artisans. Valeriya also advocates for innovative approaches like the farm-to-closet initiative, which connects brands with traditional farmers to cultivate bio-natural fabrics, promoting a regenerative and responsible fashion supply chain.
As a Certified Coach, Valeriya empowers individuals and businesses to align their values with sustainable practices, offering strategic guidance on how diversity and sustainability can be integral to personal and professional growth. She’s not just a public figure; she’s a thought leader with a vision for a more inclusive and environmentally responsible world.
- Diverse Management experience affected your attitude to diversity and sustainable fashion?
Sustainability should be a holistic approach in the fashion industry, focusing on making every phase of the product life cycle sustainable. As a researcher within Diversity Management, I am trying to turn my personal commitment to our planet and the people on it into a strategic pillar of my professional development. Managing and developing sustainability by promoting DEI ( Diversity; Equity; Inclusion)1MUST BE the key if we’re to play a proactive role in the sustainable future of the fashion industry.
DM strategy should be the fundamental core for the industry, involving every stage of the product life cycle: from the design, the purchasing of materials, production, logistics, product use and end of life.
#Sustainability is an important aspect of fashion design, whether in producing fibre or the production of fashion design itself. Therefore, the fashion industry must be responsible to the community and the environment by ensuring less negative environmental impact of garment production involving raw materials, processing, and production☝️
2. Your PhD studies investigate how diversity might help to oversee global environmental efforts. Could you offer any important ideas from your work and their relevance for the fashion business?
Let’s look at a Norwegian Brand MYET that is actively advocating for the sustainable movement. With its eco-friendly clothing, MYET is on a mission to make the world a kinder and more sustainable place. MYET uses 100% organic materials and eco-friendly water-based ink to print designs on their products. Moreover, all shipments are done using recycled or biodegradable materials.
Their most recent line of recycled natural products such as pineapple threads, banana fiber, bamboo fiber are made in the Philippines in collaboration with local artists. Additionally, they donate a part of their profits to sanctuaries as well as organizations that support the environment.
The designer Mrs. Mayette Codoy is the creative director and founder of @myet.no A luxurious clothing line crafted from unique textiles from the Philippines such as abaca (Manila hemp), pinya (pineapple), and banana.
When we think about sustainability and innovation, MYET is the real deal.
Mayeth’s stunning designs have show cased at Asia Pacific Fashion Week (APFW) in Los Angeles, Oslo, Norway, Malta, New York Fashion Week, and Norway. We are looking forward to seeing her amazing designs, she also has won the award of Junior Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 from International Film Festival Manhattan
My own advice is to use more deadstock fabric, or extra rolls of fabric left over from major fashion houses to create sustainable garments. Additionally, by having the initiative which I call the farm-to-closet, the brands should employ traditional farmers and local artisans, cultivate their own bionatural fabrics for example cotton, benefitting on age-old techniques that do not include chemicals. The brand’s goal should be establishing a more responsible and sustainable relationship with the planet and minimize pollution via a regenerative supply chain.
3. How do you see the integration of Diversity Management (DM) into the sustainability goals of fashion companies?
The integration of Diversity Management into sustainability goals is essential. A diverse workforce can bring varied perspectives that enhance creative problem-solving, which is key to developing innovative, sustainable solutions. By promoting DEI, companies can ensure inclusivity in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for environmental and social sustainability.
4. Can you provide examples of how a diverse team might positively impact sustainable fashion design?
A diverse team can introduce innovative ideas by drawing from different cultural backgrounds and experiences. For example, traditional fabric-making techniques from various countries, like pineapple threads in the Philippines or bamboo fiber from Asia, could inspire more sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Diversity encourages a holistic view, leading to more sustainable solutions in both design and production.
5. How does your research in Diversity Management intersect with sustainability efforts in fashion?
My research in Diversity Management highlights that inclusion of diverse voices is crucial in shaping sustainability strategies. It’s about more than just creating eco-friendly products — it’s about involving different communities and backgrounds in the entire process. Diverse perspectives can help identify more ethical production methods and social responsibilities within fashion, including fair labor practices and community engagement.
6. What role does supply chain transparency play in creating a sustainable fashion industry, and how does Diversity Management fit in?
Supply chain transparency ensures that consumers and stakeholders can track the origins and ethical standards of their products. By incorporating Diversity Management, businesses can promote equitable representation at every level of the supply chain, from the farmers cultivating raw materials to the workers producing garments. This helps ensure that sustainability is not just an environmental goal but a socially inclusive one too.
7. How can DEI initiatives within fashion companies contribute to addressing the environmental challenges facing the industry?
DEI initiatives can drive innovation by bringing together individuals from different backgrounds to challenge traditional, unsustainable practices. Employees with diverse experiences may introduce alternative production techniques that reduce waste or propose ways to minimize water and energy use in manufacturing. DEI initiatives encourage collaborative thinking, which can lead to a more sustainable approach to fashion.
8. What challenges do fashion companies face in balancing diversity and sustainability, and how can they overcome them?
One major challenge is that sustainable materials or practices may be more expensive, and companies might prioritize profitability over inclusivity or sustainability. To overcome this, businesses can view diversity and sustainability as long-term investments. Engaging diverse voices in leadership positions can help shape strategies that not only minimize environmental harm but also promote social equity, resulting in a more resilient brand.
9. Can you explain the “farm-to-closet” initiative and its potential for revolutionizing the fashion industry?
The “farm-to-closet” initiative encourages brands to cultivate their own bio-natural fabrics, such as organic cotton, through partnerships with traditional farmers and artisans. By adopting this approach, companies reduce reliance on harmful chemicals and support sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative also creates a direct link between local communities and fashion brands, fostering economic growth and environmental responsibility.
10. How does the use of deadstock fabric contribute to a sustainable fashion industry, and what challenges are there in scaling this practice?
Using deadstock fabric, which consists of leftover rolls from major fashion houses, helps reduce waste in the fashion industry by repurposing materials that might otherwise be discarded. The challenge in scaling this practice lies in limited availability and the unpredictability of fabric types, which can limit design consistency. However, for smaller brands or limited-edition lines, deadstock can be a powerful tool for sustainability.
11. How can global brands collaborate with local artisans to promote sustainability in fashion?
Global brands can work closely with local artisans, as seen in MYET’s collaboration with Philippine artists using pineapple and banana fibers. This approach not only promotes sustainable material use but also supports local economies and preserves cultural heritage. Such collaborations benefit both parties: global brands can access unique, sustainable materials, and local artisans receive fair compensation and visibility.
12. In your opinion, what’s the most pressing challenge for the fashion industry regarding sustainability and diversity?
The most pressing challenge is achieving a balance between scaling sustainable practices and maintaining inclusivity. While large companies have the resources to implement eco-friendly changes, smaller brands or those in developing countries may struggle to adopt these practices due to costs or lack of infrastructure. Ensuring that sustainability doesn’t exclude marginalized communities or regions is crucial for long-term progress
It was to have you on this interview whishing all the success , Also in Medium – https://medium.com/@julio.verissimo_11624/redefining-fashion-harnessing-diversity-management-to-drive-sustainable-and-ethical-fashion-542b6a5b43fe
About the the Interviewer
Mr. Julio Verissimo — President & CEO — Borderless Consulting
Mr. Julio Verissimo has over more than 24 years experience in multisectorial growth and has deployed and executed projects in more then 47 countries, an executive leader and native Visionaire from IT to technological transformations to wireless networks and had significant roles in telco and banking sector with development of several systems for VAR and regulation, he is also executive member of several chambers of commerce with major roles and was partner of several equity and funds for diverse sectors including crypto currency projects, he also worked with UKTI UK Trade and investment in multiple countries for fund acquire for many companies. business offerings in green energy and sustainable infrastructure.
Mr. Julio Verissimo was awarded the “World Eminent Man of Global Financial Technology 2023,” awards by The Who is Who International Academy & Awards (WIWIAA)
Mr. Julio Verissimo is the President & CEO of Borderless Consulting, and Private Office a global consulting firm that helps businesses navigate the complexities of cross-border operations. With over 24 years of experience in the different fields, he is a highly accomplished and respected leader in the industry. He is a highly experienced executive with a proven track record of success in driving growth and profitability for a variety of companies across different industries. He has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in areas such as business development, strategic planning, operations, and financial management. He has a strong background in developing and implementing effective growth strategies, as well as a deep understanding of the key financial and operational metrics that drive success. a deep understanding of the key business drivers that drive success, and has a unique ability to develop and execute effective strategies that deliver results.
Throughout his career, Mr. Julio Verissimo has demonstrated a strong ability to lead and inspire teams to achieve their full potential. He is known for his ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders, and is highly skilled at communicating complex ideas in a clear and concise manner.
In addition to his professional experience, he is fluent in multiple languages, including Portuguese, Spanish, and English, and has a deep understanding of global business trends and best practices.
With a proven track record of success in driving growth and profitability He is highly skilled in business development, strategic planning, operations, and financial management, and is an expert in leading teams to achieve their full potential, allways cheerfull for new challenges ,nothing is impossible. Mr. Julio Verissimo is also a Featured Contributor on BIZCATALYST 360 ,
Mr. Julio Verissimo was also awarded by Thinkers 360 with the badge Top 50 Thought Leader Climate Change Thinkers 360
Mr. Julio Verissimo was also awarded by Thinkers 360 with the badge Top 50 Thought Leader Renewable Energy Thinker360
Mr. Julio Verissimo was also awarded by Thinkers 360 with the badge Top 100 Thought Leader Business Continuity Thinker360
Mr. Julio Verissimo was also awarded by Thinkers 360 with the badge Top 50 Thought Leader Coaching Thinker360
Mr. Julio Verissimo Is also Fair Economic Developer for OIDE — IOED Intergovernmental Organization of Pubic Law and International Organizationof Economic Development and also makes part of www.icj-icc.org , www.europolicefederation.sk , www.oide-gouv.org , www.rotary.org , www.lionsclubs.org , www.knightsofmalta-osj.org
Mr. Julio Verissimo is also President of Foundation Borderless Consulting
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