How Fashion Startup ARSHYS Is Supporting People With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Dubai-based fashion startup ARSHYS aims to implement diversity as a measure of the brand’s relevance, where inclusion for all is the new norm
ARSHYS, an innovative and purpose-driven brand, is approaching fashion as a platform to raise awareness on social matters. The brand’s latest initiative, which was created amid the panic of the pandemic, features artwork created by those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
By putting this community at the heart of her new collection and product development, Emirati entrepreneur and founder Arshia Alam has created a complete high-end fashion collection named the ‘ARSHYS Empower Spectrum initiative’. Aiming to redefine the fashion business to become ‘fashion for good,’ ARSHYS has joined hands with Dubai Autism Center to empower people who are affected by ASD.
“Often, mentally challenged people find it difficult to support themselves due to lack of employment and other opportunities and through ‘ARSHYS Empower Spectrum initiative’, I aim to blur lines between fashion and purpose,” says Alam.
“Through this project, I aim to integrate them as beneficiaries in the value chain of the company in co-creating a commercially viable collection, telling their story through my designs and create a sustainable business model where part of the revenues generated through the sale of clothing goes back to these communities, helping them become confident, independent members of the society.”
Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General of Dubai Autism Center says, “Twenty five years ago, one in 1,000 people were diagnosed with autism. Today, it is one in 59.” With this increase in number, it is crucial to create sustainable models and eco-systems which support disadvantaged communities.
By harnessing the power of business to build a more inclusive society, the designer is looking to push the social boundaries with the aim to create both social and economic value.
Marking the initiative is the first of its kind where a complete high-end fashion collection is being produced using artworks by kids who are affected by autism.
The collection will be launched early next year but part of the textiles under this initiative are being launched as scarves and face masks on the designer’s ecommerce site ARSHYS.com, where proceeds will go back to support the talent at Dubai Autism Center.
For more information, please visit ARSHYS.com
Lead Image Courtsey of ARSHYS
