Caribbean Export & EPA Implementation in the Caribbean Servi

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Caribbean Export and EPA Implementation in the Caribbean Services Sector BENEFICIARY SUCCESSES USING THE EPA

In recognising the importance of exposure of regional fashion industry beyond the traditional trade mission and exhibition, Caribbean Export conceptualised a project that would demonstrate the vibrancy and creative expression of the Caribbean at an international level. With this goal, Caribbean Export launched the Caribbean Essence platform to facilitate the entry and penetration of regional fashion and jewellery designers into the European market through utilization of the CARIFORUM-EU EPA. The introductory instalment of Caribbean Essence was showcased in London during the Summer Olympics on August 4, 2012 at Grosvenor House. The work of six designers was unveiled at the event, which sought to build on the momentum generated during the presentation of ‘Caribbean Collections’ at London Fashion Week from February 17-22, 2012, in partnership with the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) and the Caribbean Fashion Industry Association (CAFIA). The participants were fashion designers Sonia Noel (Guyana), Arlene Martin (Jamaica), and Meiling (Trinidad and Tobago), whose work was complemented by accessories from Veve Collection (Haiti), Atelier Doré (Suriname), and Ibis Ceramic Jewellery (Trinidad and Tobago). Building on the London experience, the Caribbean Essence platform showcased five fashion designers at The Gallery Runway Fashion show in Berlin, Germany from July 2-3, 2013. Design firms for this event included Fifth Element Designs (Barbados), Oriett Domenech (Dominican Republic), drennaLUNA (Jamaica), and Heather Jones Designs and Meiling Inc. (Trinidad and Tobago). Through Caribbean Essence, Caribbean Export created market positioning opportunities and tangible leads for

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possible business partnerships for Caribbean designers within the UK and the rest of the EU through a live showcase of their collections. The platform also highlighted the variety of design and market versatility available in the Caribbean, while providing designers with an enhanced view of the technical and management skills needed for success in the global fashion industry. Participation in Caribbean Essence, Berlin garnered tremendous opportunities and accomplishments for the designers, namely Atelier Doré, drennaLUNA, Fifth Element Designs, Meiling Inc., and Sonia Noel Designs.

ATELIER DORÉ – SURINAME

Atelier Doré started as a gold and silver smithy named Doré & Co. in 1955 in Suriname by Doremus Hendrick Uiterloo. In 1966, Uiterloo’s son Henk and his wife Judith adopted Doré & Co. and renamed it Atelier Doré.