Fashion, Technology, and Leadership: How the FICFF & UNITAR Women’s Forum is Shaping the Future

The intersection of fashion, technology, and global leadership took center stage at the 2025 Women’s Forum hosted by the Fashion in a Conscious Future Foundation (FICFF) in collaboration with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the forum convened designers, entrepreneurs, financial leaders, and policymakers to discuss how fashion serves as a vehicle for empowerment, sustainability, and digital transformation in a rapidly evolving global economy.

United Nations Headquarters

Fashion as an Engine for Global Change

Fashion has long been a reflection of culture, but in today’s world, it is also a force for economic independence and technological disruption. Ambassador Marco A. Suazo, Head of UNITAR’s New York Office, opened the forum with a powerful statement on the necessity of inclusive leadership:

“Empowering women is not just about gender equity—it is about economic progress, social stability, and the foundation of a more just society. The work being done here today is essential for creating a future where all women, regardless of background, have access to opportunity and leadership.”

His remarks set the tone for an event that was less about theory and more about action—how the worlds of fashion, finance, and technology can work together to break systemic barriers and build new opportunities for women worldwide.

(L to R ) Sana Bao, Yitong Qin, Maribel Lieberman, Abigail Posner, Nicola Formichetti, Georgina Chapman

Innovation and AI: A Double-Edged Sword?

As artificial intelligence and blockchain reshape fashion, designers and industry leaders are grappling with the opportunities and ethical dilemmas that come with technological progress. Nicola Formichetti, celebrated for his work with Mugler and Diesel, urged the industry to approach AI with curiosity but also responsibility:

“I always look at everything as a student, and I’m ready to learn. When AI came, I told myself I needed to embrace a beginner’s mindset. I spent the pandemic teaching myself blockchain, and now AI is transforming fashion. If we want to move forward, we have to look back—classical music, museums, historical references—these shape how we innovate.”

This call for conscious innovation was echoed by FICFF founder and chairman Yitong Qin, who challenged designers and tech leaders to prioritize data ethics:

“We need to ask: Where do we put our data? Who controls it? The future of fashion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about ethics and responsibility. Likewise, we also need to be mindful of the biases that come with the development of Artificial Intelligence.”

The discussion underscored a broader reckoning within the industry: while AI can democratize access to design and accelerate production, it also introduces risks of data privacy violations, bias in algorithmic decision-making, and a potential devaluation of human craftsmanship.

The Financial Gap: Women, Wealth, and Risk-Taking

One of the most striking conversations at the forum revolved around financial literacy and women’s access to capital. While fashion is often seen as a female-driven industry, the financial structures that power it remain largely male-dominated. Sana Bao, a financial advisor at Morgan Stanley, highlighted the stark reality:

“Most women play it safe—we don’t want to take risks. But we need to manage risk and actively build wealth. Globally, only 15% of financial advisors and 12% of portfolio managers are women. We have to consistently deliver exceptional results to let them know we can, to make ourselves seen.”

This message resonated across industries, reinforcing the need for women to take control of financial decision-making, whether as entrepreneurs, investors, or executives.

Sustainability and Cultural Storytelling in Fashion

Fashion’s role as a cultural and environmental force was another key focus. Maribel Lieberman, founder of luxury chocolate brand MarieBelle, shared her journey of combining artistry, business, and sustainability:

“When I opened my chocolate shop, I used my husband’s painting skills and my fashion background to create something beautiful and unique. I wanted to present beautiful things to people and use the best ingredients.”

Her story reinforced a broader theme—successful brands today are not just selling products; they are selling narratives that connect deeply with consumers’ values and emotions.

Formichetti reinforced this notion, emphasizing how sustainability should be embedded in fashion’s DNA:

“I believe that fashion often delivers a big statement and a message. So I really agree with incorporating sustainability into fashion and using it for good.”

The Future of Fashion Leadership

As the forum concluded, one thing was clear: the future of fashion lies in an intersectional approach that blends creativity, financial empowerment, technological responsibility, and sustainability. FICFF and UNITAR’s collaboration at the UN has established a platform not just for discussion but for real change—one that encourages women to take ownership of their futures in every sector of the industry.

With the groundwork laid at this year’s forum, the next step is implementation—ensuring that these conversations translate into policies, funding opportunities, and leadership roles that drive fashion toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

FICFF and UNITAR are setting a precedent for what fashion’s future should look like: dynamic, inclusive, and led by those ready to challenge the status quo. And as the industry evolves, one thing is certain—women will be at the forefront of that transformation.