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United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs Sustainable Development

Millones de Maneras

LAURA LAURENS SAS (
Private sector
)
#SDGAction57492
Description
Description

The objective of Millones de Maneras is to create a global platform for collaboration and empowerment through fashion, bridging indigenous and marginalized communities with international markets. The initiative fosters meaningful partnerships that celebrate cultural heritage, promote economic sustainability, and challenge traditional industry paradigms. Millones de Maneras establishes deep, community-driven collaborations, such as with the Transgender Embera Chamí people in Karmata Rúa, a reserve in Antioquia, Colombia. Additionally, it partners with Agroarte in El Cauca, working alongside local silk suppliers who have developed an extensive eco-dyeing palette, re-signifying the cultural and symbolic use of coca leaves. These initiatives are complemented by collaborations with other social minority groups across Colombia and the world. At its core, Millones de Maneras seeks to amplify visibility, recognition, and agency for each participant by honoring their unique knowledge, craftsmanship, and worldviews. The project redefines the dominant fashion paradigm by introducing an inclusive, holistic creative process—spanning from concept development and material selection to aesthetic expression and presentation. The initiative aims to identify and elevate innovative and culturally rooted fashion that meets the expectations of global markets while maintaining authenticity, ethical integrity, and respect for traditional narratives. Above all, Millones de Maneras prioritizes the well-being of the communities it serves, striving to create financial opportunities, promote cultural understanding, and spark critical conversations about identity, diversity, and inclusion. By merging subaltern knowledge systems with contemporary fashion frameworks, this initiative reimagines fashion as a transformative tool for social, environmental, and cultural change.

Implementation of the Project/Activity

This initiative is implemented through a diverse range of methodologies, including workshops, educational programs, networking opportunities, fashion shows, artifacts, events, showcases, and festivals, all designed to empower and elevate the communities involved. A fundamental guiding principle of the project is the prioritization of consultation and the well-being of core communities, ensuring their active participation and meaningful contributions at every stage—from conceptualization to execution

Arrangements for Capacity-Building and Technology Transfer

Millones de Maneras facilitates access to new tools and technologies that empower communities to enhance their traditional practices while expanding their reach. Through digital platforms for showcasing their work, the initiative bridges cultural heritage with modern innovation. These efforts are complemented by training programs and capacity-building activities, ensuring that the knowledge and skills acquired contribute to the long-term sustainability of the communities. This approach preserves cultural identity while fostering economic resilience and independence

Coordination mechanisms

The coordination mechanisms for Millones de Maneras include structured communication channels among stakeholders, participatory decision-making processes, and resource management systems to ensure the sustainable use of materials. The initiative prioritizes cultural sensitivity protocols to preserve traditions, while workflows and logistics are designed to maximize participation and minimize disruptions to community life. Monitoring and feedback systems are in place to assess progress and adapt strategies, alongside conflict resolution frameworks to address challenges constructively. Partnerships are formalized through agreements that clearly define roles and responsibilities, ensuring alignment and collaboration at every stage.

Evaluation

Economic Impact: Increased income, production growth, and financial independence for artisans.

Social and Cultural Impact: Enhanced visibility, shifts in societal perceptions of diversity, and greater community participation. 

Environmental Impact: Adoption of sustainable practices to reduce the environmental footprint. Our aim is to continue being an example of a collaborative project aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Capacity-Building: Improved skills through workshops and retention of traditional knowledge.

Community Well-Being: Surveys and interviews to assess empowerment, cultural pride, and satisfaction. 

Future AI Integration: Aiming to adopt AI for trend analysis, real-time visuals, and actionable insights to enhance transparency and effectiveness.

Partners

Liliana Sanguino – Director of the Social Justice Program at Parsons School of Design, New York Claudia Fisher – Documentary Filmmaker Academic Institutions – Partnerships with universities worldwide to foster research, education, and creative exchange Colombian Embassies – Collaboration with Colombian embassies across different countries to support cultural diplomacy and visibility

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False
Action Network
Conscious Fashion and Lifestyle Network
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Timeline
01 February 2018 (start date)
10 February 2025 (date of completion)
Entity
N/A
SDGs
1 3 4 5 8 10 16
Region
  1. Global
Geographical coverage
Bogota, Colombia
Other beneficiaries

The beneficiaries of this project include the members of the participating communities, who gain economic opportunities, empowerment, and visibility. Additionally, Colombia’s social and cultural fabric benefits, as the initiative fosters inclusivity, healing, and cultural preservation through creative expression. The environment also benefits from the project's commitment to sustainable practices, while Colombia, as a whole, emerges as a global example of transformation and resilience through creativity. Finally, I, the brand, and the diverse actors who join this collective grow as social and creative leaders, furthering our mission to inspire, uplift, and drive meaningful change.

More information
Countries
Macquarie University
Colombia
Colombia
Guatemala
Guatemala
South Africa
South Africa
Contact Information

Laura Laurens, Ms