Life is like a wheel and in the path of growth, you pass through the highs and lows to make it and come full circle. And so is the journey of Zarah Juan, a shoe and bag designer and one of the major highlights of Artefino 2025 who anchors herself in HeArtefino. Driven by purpose, her career has soared through great heights over the years and made a household name for her in artisanal fashion. New. Now. Next goes one-on-one with this amazing and inspiring talent who is full of heart.

NNN: How does it feel to come full circle with Artefino?

Zarah JUAN: Coming full circle with Artefino feels like reuniting with a nurturing family that encourages exploration and growth. It’s about embracing new experiences and pushing boundaries, all while knowing there’s unwavering support waiting for you. Artefino fosters that spirit of development, guiding you back to your roots and empowering you to strengthen your foundations. This journey inspires a meaningful path filled with creativity and purpose.

What’s this project all about?

The Full Circle Project represents a decade-long commitment to working with Filipino artisan communities, focusing not just on creating livelihoods but on fostering holistic community development. It’s about exploring how we can contribute more meaningfully and maximize our skills to add real value to the supply chain. As a WORK OF HEART designer, this journey is a continuous quest to deepen our roots, enabling us to grow and bear new fruits.

My journey led me to a commune in West Bogor, Jakarta, where I encountered passionate individuals dedicated to the art of natural dyeing. Within the enchanting forests of West Bogor, I discovered a profound connection between nature and art — one that nurtures both humanity and the environment. Grounded and connected to the earth, I have envisioned passionately learning this art and bringing it back home to share with our artisan communities, empowering them to learn and benefit from this sustainable practice. The Full Circle Project is ultimately about cultivating creativity, strengthening community ties, and honoring the symbiotic relationship between nature and our craft.

What made you decide to take up something new? And why the choice?

As an advocate for Filipino textiles, I recognized the transformative potential of natural dyes in enhancing both their beauty and value. My decision to explore ecoprinting stemmed from its accessibility and the profound impact it can have on communities. This technique is not only shareable and teachable, enriching livelihoods, but it also aligns with sustainable practices, being kinder to the environment. Embracing ecoprinting allows us to celebrate our heritage while fostering a greener future, empowering artisans and preserving our natural resources.

What is your design process?

My design process is a profound journey of reflection, a rumination on my life experiences that shapes who I am today. I draw upon the lessons from both the joys and struggles of my past, using them as inspiration to create beautiful pieces that serve as meaningful markers in my life. Central to my work is a deep connection to our Filipino identity, with the vision of elevating our heritage to a level where every generation can take pride in it. Through this process, I aim to weave a narrative that honors our culture while inspiring future generations to embrace and celebrate our rich legacy.

What does HeArtefino mean to you personally?

HeArtefino transcends being merely a platform; it is the vibrant heart that champions Filipino culture and uplifts artisan communities. As its first recipient, I have witnessed firsthand how it breathes life into dreams, fostering collaboration and resilience. I feel incredibly blessed to receive this gift, as it reassures me that I am not alone in my pursuit of community development. I have found a family that shares a deep commitment to uplifting our country. This lifeline infuses vitality into those striving for a brighter future, fueling creativity and passion. HeArtefino embodies unity, igniting hope and inspiring meaningful change, as it propels our rich heritage forward with unparalleled beauty and strength.

When was the first time you joined Artefino?

I first joined Artefino in 2017, and it has since empowered me to spread my wings and carve a meaningful path to serve others. With its guidance, we successfully opened our flagship store at Power Plant Mall and a beautiful location at Greenbelt 5. This journey has allowed me to focus on greater ambitions and expand my impact on artisan communities, elevating their voices and crafts to wider audiences.

What drives you to help artisanal communities?

Having come from humble beginnings, I have experienced firsthand how a simple act of kindness can profoundly alter the trajectory of one’s life. The kindness I received inspired me deeply, igniting a desire within me to pay it forward. I believe that every small gesture has the power to create ripples of change, transforming not only individual lives but entire communities. It is this spirit of giving and compassion that fuels my journey, reminding me that we each have the ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

You are building a Zarah Juan community — successful one at that. Like an ecosystem of artisans that make your range of products from fashion to decor to home? How sustainable is it? What advice can you give people about this?

Building the Zarah Juan community has become a thriving ecosystem of artisans, encompassing a diverse range of products from fashion to décor and home goods. My definition of sustainability centers on survival; it is essential that people and the planet work in harmony for life to flourish. While sustainability has become one of the buzzwords of our time, often perceived as daunting or costly, I believe that the journey begins with small, intentional steps.

Being mindful of our actions is crucial. We must consider the health of Mother Earth in every choice we make, ensuring that our pursuits do not come at her expense. Embracing culture and traditions while empowering communities is vital, but it should always align with our responsibility to protect the environment. By fostering this balance, we can create a sustainable future that honors both our heritage and our planet.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from Artefino and how has it impacted your life?

The most significant lesson I’ve gained from Artefino is that creativity, design, and skills are meant to be shared; they possess the profound ability to uplift and empower others. I’ve learned that the transformative power of design can ignite meaningful change, while the act of caring can truly be life-altering. This realization has deeply enriched my life, becoming an integral part of my journey and my life’s calling. It has shown me that our collective creativity weaves a vibrant tapestry of connection and support, making the world a more beautiful and colorful place for everyone.

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Zarah Juan’s exclusive HeArtefino collection is available at the Artefino 2025 Fair 31 July to 3 August at The Fifth at Rockwell, Makati City.