Fashion as a Force for Good

Lebanese, from Zahle; seeking Undergraduate degree in Fashion design and is enrolled at Saint Joseph University.  

What if your favorite outfit could save the planet? Could the old clothes in the back of your closet have a second life? Could fashion be a force for good? I believe in this dream.

My name is Maria Sarkis, an 18-year-old aspiring fashion designer from Lebanon. Growing up in a family that struggled to make ends meet, I learned the importance of resourcefulness early on.

My father passed away when I was a teenager, leaving just mom to support our family of 5. We couldn't afford new clothes. One day, my mother turned my old dress into a cool skirt. That's when I fell in love with reimagining fashion.

Now, seeing the harmful effects of the fast fashion industry, I want to create a more sustainable and ethical alternative.

I learned that approximately 92 million tons of clothing end up in landfills each year! This shocking statistic shows how urgently we need change.

Beyond the environmental impact, the fast fashion industry often relies on unfair labor practices, including long working hours, low wages, and unsafe working conditions.

I aim to lead a fashion revolution prioritizing people and the planet. Supporting me with $4450 per semester isn't just funding a designer. It is investing in a sustainable future by turning a consumer industry into a force for good. Together, we can revolutionize the industry. As such, caring about people and the environment would not be mutually exclusive.

Why Would Donors Fund You?

My project is a catalyst for a much-needed fashion revolution. By supporting my work, not only you're investing in a designer; but you're also investing in a sustainable future where fashion is a force for good. My approach prioritizes ethical production, reduces environmental impact, and empowers individuals. Together, we can create an industry that prioritizes the values of our shared humanity.

How Do You Plan to Payback?

When I get my degree, graduate and start working on my fashion company, I am planning to be a donor myself and help who are less fortunate to have a chance to achieve their dreams like I am to achieve mine. No one should stop dreaming and pursuing their dreams just because they aren't doing good financially. Life continues.

Volunteer Work/Social Capital

1. I served with the scouts for 8 years and there we helped people in need
2. With my school, we went to an orphanadge and a wheelchair forum and entertained the people there and we also gave them gifts
3. At school I helped the cleaners to get rid of all the trash the other students werethrowing and littering on the floor

What Have You Done to Improve Yourself? Awards and Achievements

• I am on my 336 day streak on duolingo. Currently learning chinese
• I am learning how to draw on Youtube
• I am practicing everyday on my sewing machine