The future of Filipino fashion is stepping onto the world stage —and it’s doing so with world-class guidance.

As part of its bold mission to empower homegrown talents, FASHIONPhilippines, the flagship promotions program of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), is launching a landmark mentorship and exhibition initiative in Milan — the epicenter of global fashion.

Slated for Milan Fashion Week 2025, the FASHIONPhilippines Mentorship Program offers a rare opportunity for Filipino designers and brands to break into the elite European market. Spearheaded by CITEM, in partnership with the Philippine Fashion Coalition (PFC), LIT Fashion Consultancy, and the DOST–Philippine Textile Research Institute, this prestigious platform goes beyond showcasing style — it’s about shaping stories, refining vision, and building global relevance.

At the helm of this initiative is Fondazione Sozzani, a revered Milanese institution dedicated to the intersection of fashion, photography, design, and ultural innovation. Together, they’ve curated a powerhouse lineup of mentors whose impact spans fashion’s most iconic runways and emerging global scenes.

Visionaries behind the program

SARA SOZZANI MAINO, Creative Director, Fondazione Sozzani

A pillar of global fashion and a relentless champion of emerging creatives, Sozzani Maino brings decades of experience from her pivotal roles at Vogue Italia and Vogue Talents. Her ethos is simple yet powerful:

“I look for designers with strong narratives—those who champion the process and the people behind every piece.”

RICCARDO GRASSI

Founder, RG Showroom & Co-Founder, Studio Zeta

An industry tastemaker with a sharp instinct for the next big thing, Grassi has helped propel avant-garde labels like Martin Margiela and Neil Barrett into the global spotlight. He’s a trusted reference among the world’s top buyers—and now, a mentor for Filipino talent on the rise.

SILVIA BERTOCCHI

Head of Cultural Programs, Fondazione Sozzani