Celebrating Diversity: A New Era for AAPI Designers in Fashion

An Empowering Initiative for AAPI Designers

In an inspiring move that highlights the importance of diversity and innovation in fashion, Genesis Motor America and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have unveiled the designers who will receive the prestigious AAPI Design + Innovation Grant for 2026. This year's awardees—Azeeza Khan of Azeeza, Saber Ahmed of Glass Cypress, and Shao Yang of SHAO New York—represent a new wave of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) talent in the fashion industry. Their selection is crucial for uplifting underrepresented voices and encouraging cultural exchange within the realm of design.

The Selected Designers

1. Azeeza Khan (Azeeza)
Based in Chicago, Azeeza Khan is renowned for her vibrant hand-dyed silks and modern feminine silhouettes. Her label, Azeeza, embraces ethical sourcing and size inclusivity. Khan's designs have garnered attention from A-list celebrities including Barbra Streisand, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez, highlighting her impact within the fashion community.

2. Saber Ahmed (Glass Cypress)
From Houston, Saber Ahmed is the co-founder and creative director of Glass Cypress, a label celebrated for its rich craftsmanship and storytelling approach. Drawing inspiration from his Bangladeshi heritage, Ahmed collaborates closely with artisans to create collections that blend traditional techniques with contemporary design.

3. Shao Yang (SHAO New York)
Renowned for his exploration of Asian heritage and New York culture, Shao Yang is recognized for his exceptional tailoring and bold narratives in fashion design. Trained at Parsons, Yang’s work has adorned numerous public figures and showcases his commitment to blending technical precision with artistic storytelling.

The Evolution of the Grant

This year's AAPI Design + Innovation Grant signifies a major evolution in the program, marking a departure from competitive structures to a more cooperative model. Each selected designer will receive equal funding of $60,000 to support their design challenges and business growth, alongside access to invaluable mentorship from an esteemed advisory board of experts in fashion, retail, and media. This initiative aims to pave the way for further collaboration and cultural exchange in the fashion industry.

Mentorship and Guidance

Throughout their journey in this program, the designers will gain insights from a well-rounded team of mentors. These include influential figures such as Steven Kolb, CEO of the CFDA; Sara Kozlowski, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Program Strategies; and established designers like Thakoon Panichgul. This collaborative environment will foster the development of the designers’ creative visions and encourage new perspectives within their work.

Thematic Exploration: Second Nature

The 2026 AAPI Design + Innovation Grant will delve into the theme "Second Nature," challenging the designers to explore how cultural heritage influences modern design practices. The guiding question poses, "What happens when innovation begins with a cultural story?" Throughout this exploration, the designers will have the opportunity to travel to Seoul, South Korea, engaging in a rich cultural experience that aims to inspire their collections.

Looking Ahead

The culmination of the program will take place during AAPI Heritage Month in May 2027, when the designers will showcase their final collections at Genesis House in New York City. This showcase aims to highlight the intersection of heritage and contemporary design, reinforcing the program's commitment to fostering the next generation of AAPI creatives.

A Legacy of Innovation

Previously, the CFDA | Genesis House AAPI Design + Innovation Grant has celebrated various innovators, including Grace Ling, Olivia Cheng, and Terrence Zhou, all of whom have made significant contributions to the fashion narrative through their unique cultural perspectives. As the program enters its fourth year, it continues to affirm its dedication to supporting AAPI designers and enabling them to express their creativity openly.

About Genesis House

Genesis House serves as a hub for creativity and cultural exchange in the Meatpacking District, combining Korean hospitality with innovative design. This venue stands as a testament to Genesis’ commitment to customer experience and brand values, creating an immersive environment for patrons to explore the convergence of technology and art.

Through initiatives like the AAPI Design + Innovation Grant, Genesis and CFDA align their missions to uplift diverse talents and cultural narratives, ensuring a bright future for inclusive and innovative fashion.