When waste meets creativity, fashion is transformed. Join us to explore upcycling, recycling & the power of innovation in rethinking waste.
What happens when waste meets creativity? This thought-provoking panel brings together experts in upcycling and recycling to explore how creativity and innovation is turning discarded fabrics/ materials into something more valuable. We’ll cover the latest trends, challenges, and success stories in both fields, as well as the environmental. social and economic benefits of rethinking fashion waste.
Host
Poojitha Lakshman is a stay-at-home mom, upcycling entrepreneur, and sustainability advocate, turning discarded fabrics into unique products. As a determined mother of a boy with autism, she balances her creative work with her commitment to a low-waste lifestyle and her love for sewing, music, and tennis.
Speakers
Akanksha Kaila Akashi is the founder of Refash, the world’s largest discovery platform for upcycled fashion. Passionate about redefining waste, she is on a mission to build a global movement that transforms discarded materials into high-value, one-of-a-kind creations.
Wen Hsiu Chang is the founder of Reconstructed by WHC, a UAE-based sustainable fashion startup redefining style through upcycled materials and ethical design. Passionate about innovation and impact, she empowers entrepreneurs to build purpose-driven, eco-conscious brands.
Jack Ostrowski is the founder of Yellow Octopus Circular Solutions. Serial entrepreneur and Impact Investor in circular infrastructure and reCommerce technology. Jack turns “commercial sustainability” into reality by building profitable business models dedicated to circular fashion. Yellow Octopus Group Ecosystem is a trusted provider of innovative sustainable solutions to leading global brands and retailers in the fashion industry. Multiple business awards’ recipient including The Queens’ Award for Enterprise, EDIE Sustainability Leaders Award and 2024 Drapers Awards. Jack holds Masters in Sustainability Leadership from Cambridge University.
