The introduction of five new cash-prize awards to recognise excellence across Guyana’s fashion industry headlined the official launch of the Origins Guyana Fashion Festival 2026 on Friday evening at the Railway Courtyard.
The new categories — Best Fashion Designer, Best Emerging Designer, Outstanding Storyteller/Innovator, Best Female Model and Best Male Model — were unveiled as part of efforts to elevate standards and reward talent within the growing creative sector.
Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues described the festival as a platform driven by growth and transformation, signalling a major step forward for the industry.
“This year, we are not just hosting a festival, we are presenting a statement. Origins has grown. It has evolved. It has matured. And in 2026, it will be elevated into something truly exceptional,” she said.
The festival is scheduled for 3 to 5 July 2026, under the theme “A Diamond Legacy: Fashioning the Future Through Heritage and Innovation”, aligning with Guyana’s 60th Independence anniversary celebrations.
“Origins is more than a fashion show; it is about identity, storytelling and opportunity,” Rodrigues said. “Through Origins, we are creating a platform where our designers can transform talent into enterprise, and creativity into global competitiveness,” she added.
She also underscored the importance of sustained investment in platforms that support creatives, noting that such initiatives help to build visibility, credibility and community within the industry.
The launch featured recorded video segments reflecting on the success of the inaugural festival, with designers sharing their experiences and the platform’s impact.
“It was not what it meant for me individually, but what it meant for community,” said designer Mwanza Glenn.
“My collection was inspired by the ritual art form of traditional hand washing… finding beauty in those everyday things that we take for granted,” said Roberto Tika.
“Being part of Origins meant so much to me. It did open so many doors,” said Katia Fitzpatrick.
Organisers said the expanded programme and new award categories are expected to raise the profile of local designers while creating greater opportunities for recognition, collaboration and industry growth.
