Diotima designer Rachel Scott claims inaugural Empowered Vision Award
Published:Sunday | November 17, 2024 | 12:09 AM
Rachel Scott, the talented Jamaican designer behind the Diotima brand, has been named the winner of the esteemed CFDA x Frazier Family Foundation Empowered Vision Award.
The announcement was made by renowned image architect Law Roach during a chic cocktail reception on Thursday in New York City, attended by a glamorous array of industry leaders, media professionals, and fellow designers.
The Empowered Vision Award is a major initiative developed by the Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). It seeks to elevate black designers in the fashion industry, providing a US$100,000 financial grant and an additional US$100,000 in mentorship resources over a year. This programme, housed under the CFDA IMPACT programme, aims to foster creative talent and promote equity, addressing systemic barriers that have historically limited opportunities for black-owned fashion businesses.
James Frazier, trustee of the Frazier Family Foundation, highlighted the award’s mission in an article published by the CFDA.
“Supporting Rachel Scott through the Empowered Vision Award is a meaningful step in our commitment to breaking down barriers and building pathways for black designers to thrive. By partnering with the CFDA, we’re investing not only in her creative journey but in the future of a more inclusive and resilient industry.”
The mentorship programme will connect Scott with industry experts, guiding her through production, marketing, and market positioning to ensure sustainable growth.
It’s Scott’s second honour in weeks with her recently being named the 2024 American Womenswear Designer of the Year at the CFDA Fashion Awards presented by Amazon Fashion.
In 2023, she was named Emerging Designer of the Year.
The Empowered Vision Award also celebrated the incredible work of fellow finalists Aisling Camps and Charles Harbison, whose contributions to American fashion continue to inspire.
The eight-member Selection Committee for the inaugural presentation included high-profile industry figures such as Diane von Furstenberg, Shiona Turini, Carlos Nazario, and Stephanie Horton.