Press release
Chisinau, February 26, 2026 – The Diversity Fashion Show 2026 has officially been announced for May 30 in Chisinau. The event, led by founder Yerie Mary Kamara alongside ZIPHouse and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Republic of Moldova, will unite minority communities, designers, artisans, women entrepreneurs, youth, and the international community under one roof.
Through a blend of traditional and modern clothing, cultural performances, and artistic displays, participants will express their heritage and personal stories in a show where cultures meet, learn from each other, and ensure everyone feels equally included and represented.
Ahead of its final event in May, the Diversity Fashion Show 2026 will feature a series of activities designed to promote inclusion, respect for diversity, and social cohesion. These initiatives will bring together women and youth from different ethnic, cultural and national backgrounds throughout Moldova.
Young participants will receive fabrics and materials to craft their own designs. Community workshops, particularly in areas with minority representation, will connect local youth with the final fashion show, empowering them to showcase their creativity.
The project will shine a spotlight on Moldova’s ethnic minorities, including Ukrainian, Roma, Gagauzian, and Bulgarian communities. “By ensuring visibility and equal participation, this project actively challenges stereotypes, encourages meaningful collaboration among communities and contributes to stronger social cohesion across Moldova”, stated Yerie Mary Kamara, originally from Sierra Leone, who is also the driving force behind the broader “African Fashion Show for Charity” project.
“These activities will help young people develop creative skills, build confidence and strengthen their sense of belonging within their communities”, said Carolina Tulgara, the director of the leading partner, ZIPHouse, a Moldovan Fashion Hub supporting young designers, creative industries and fashion education.
“The Diversity Fashion Show reminds us of the joy that emerges when cultures meet, inspire one another and create together. We are thrilled to support an initiative that transforms the migrant experience into beauty and connection that belongs to all. Every design on this runway will show how diversity enriches Moldova and all of us“, commented Ester Ruiz de Azua, Chief of Mission of IOM Moldova.
The Diversity Fashion Show 2026 represents the third edition of the African Fashion Show for Charity initiative, founded by Yerie Mary Kamara. Launched in Moldova in 2023, the project has grown into a platform that champions cultural diversity, women’s empowerment and inclusion through fashion and creative expression.
The inaugural and second editions brought together diplomatic missions, minority communities, designers, and charitable organizations, merging cultural celebration with social impact and fundraising efforts for vulnerable groups. Building on this foundation, the 2026 edition aims to further strengthening its focus on youth engagement, minority representation and social cohesion across Moldova.
All Diversity Fashion Show 2026 activities will be showcased on ZIPHouse and IOM Moldova social media platforms.
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