Fashion Trust Arabia cancels 5th edition over ‘humanitarian crisis in Palestine’

Bella Hadid attended last year's event. (AFP)
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Updated 08 November 2023
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Fashion Trust Arabia cancels 5th edition over ‘humanitarian crisis in Palestine’

DUBAI: Qatar’s star-studded Fashion Trust Arabia has cancelled its fifth edition due to the “ongoing and deeply distressing humanitarian crisis in Palestine,” organizers announced on Tuesday.  

In a statement released on the event’s page, organizers said: “Fashion Trust Arabia has always been dedicated to fostering young designers from the MENA Region. We firmly believe in the transformative power of art and creativity to transcend boundaries and unify communities. 

 

 

“However, in light of the ongoing and deeply distressing humanitarian crisis in Palestine we have taken the decision to cancel our fifth annual Awards Ceremony, which was set to take place last month, and all our upcoming activities. We have made this decision out of solidarity and respect,” the statement read.  

The organization said that in the coming weeks, it will be highlighting – on social media – the rich history of Palestinian culture and fashion in collaboration with its diverse network of designers.  

 

 

“We believe that sharing and championing culture is sorely needed, especially in such moments as now,” the statement added. “Our hearts are very heavy, but it is our responsibility to persist in our mission. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the talents and aspirations of young designers, acknowledging that a peaceful environment is vital for their growth and innovation.” 

Fashion Trust Arabia is a non-profit organization that provides financial support, guidance and mentorship to emerging designers from across the Middle East and North Africa region.  

The event is known for attracting industry heavyweights from around the world, with last year’s ceremony hosting the likes of Bella Hadid, Naomi Campbell, Karolina Kourkova, Valentino’s creative director Pierpaolo Picciolini, British models Jourdan Dunn and Poppy Delevingne, former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo, British actress Jodie Turner-Smith, US model Jasmine Tookes and US Somali model Halima Aden. 


Bella Hadid hosts aid concert for Sudan, Palestine

Updated 29 sec ago
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Bella Hadid hosts aid concert for Sudan, Palestine

  • $5.5m raised at event in Los Angeles
  • 20 artists and thousands at fundraiser

DUBAI: American Dutch Palestinian supermodel Bella Hadid this week took part in a fundraising concert, Artists for Aid, held in Los Angeles to support humanitarian relief efforts in Palestine and Sudan.

Hadid shared photos from the event on her Instagram Stories, which she co-hosted with Chilean-American actor Pedro Pascal, a longtime advocate for humanitarian causes.

The concert was led by Sudanese-Canadian poet Mustafa and brought together musicians, actors and activists in a show of solidarity.

The Los Angeles edition featured 20 artists and drew thousands of attendees, raising $5.5 million. Proceeds will support the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund and the Sudanese American Physicians Association.

The event marked the third successful Artists for Aid concert, following earlier shows in Newark, New Jersey, and London.

To host the event, Hadid wore a black graphic T-shirt featuring a bold red and green rose motif, styled in a slightly oversized, rolled-sleeve fit. The top was tucked loosely into black trousers, while a red-and-black keffiyeh-style scarf was tied around her hips and worn like a wrap skirt, adding a layer of cultural symbolism to the look.

She completed the outfit with a black bandana worn low over her hair and tied at the back.

The model’s siblings, Alana Hadid, Marielle Hadid and Anwar Hadid, were among the guests in attendance at the concert.

After the event, the PCRF shared a post with Hadid and the SAPA, writing that it “was honored” to be a part of the event.

The organization added: “In an unforgettable evening, 20 artists and performers, along with thousands of attendees, showed how global solidarity can become real action, sending a powerful message of care and hope to children who have endured so much in both Palestine and Sudan.”

“We were especially moved to see Diaa and Ayham, two of our children who were evacuated from Gaza for life-saving treatment abroad, attending the concert in person, thriving and strong once again, just as we wish for all the children we serve.”

The organization went on to thank all the performers and the audience: “Together, you made last night a success that will ripple across the lives of countless children, reminding them that they are never alone.”