LIFESTYLE
Designers that are helping those
DISPLACED By Adrielyn Christi
Did you know? There are local designers in the United States whose goal is to help immigrant and refugees in settlement areas?
How? By putting these individuals to work and providing them with the knowledge of becoming craft artisans and providing them with fair wages to take charge of their lives.
Who is helping? Jewelry designer, Sharon Herrick has made it her mission to create a daily, positive impact on global communities who are now living in the U.S. She has been a lifelong advocate for social justice, and when her hobby of creating jewelry turned into a business, she felt that after spending years working in various social change efforts (including filmmaking, advocacy for elder justice, and refugee health care), she realized that having an impact on the lives of others could be done in many ways. Illuminated Me combines her love for creating beautiful, meaningful jewelry with her passion for improving her community, its economy, and the lives of its residents.
Nabaa Al Obaidi, Jewelry Designer Photo: Tereza Janakova
Photo: Tereza Janakova Hair & Makeup: Veronika Robova
Illuminated Me believes that the success of a company is measured by its people. Above all else, they remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring everyone involved in the creation of their jewelry is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Each piece is crafted in Portland, Maine, studio by artisans, and they believe that significant changes can be made by small choices. Their pieces carry meaning beyond simple thread and beads. Enlisting more help After meeting Anthony Manfredonia, Luxury Fashion Designer, at Peoples Revolution Showroom in New York City, where Manfre Donia’s collection is represented, she knew he would be perfect to collaborate with. Manfredonia, who has served as design director for designers such as Donna Karan Collection, Tracy Reese, and Isaac Mizrahi Haute Couture. Manfredonia prides himself on creating stand-out, glamorous looks with strict attention to details and construction. So, with their same vision, they aligned themselves to collaborate in creating a collection that represents mission. Together they are committed to establishing a different way of doing business by strengthening the ties that connect us rather than the lines that divide us.
What is the result of this? Two individuals; a jewelry designer and a clothing designer who have put their creative minds together to help those who are trying to better their lives, by putting them to work and teaching them an artistry and giving a new purpose. If there were just ten more like Anthony and Sharon out there, the world could be a much better place!
Photo: Tereza Janakova
For pulls and sample requests: People’s Revolution NY For sales: orders@illuminatedme.com
Trend Privé Magazine 121
