EMERGING VOICES
SOUTH ASIA X UK
OPEN CALL FOR UK BASED EMERGING DESIGNERS
EMERGING VOICES : SOUTH ASIA X UK
A new cross-cultural fashion collaboration bringing together one UK emerging designer and one Sri Lankan emerging designer, and pairing them with master artisans specialising in batik, beeralu lace, and dumbara weaving.
Together, the team will co-create 1–3 fashion looks blending heritage craft with contemporary design.
The project explores identity, sustainability, and cultural heritage, merging traditional South Asian craftsmanship with innovative contemporary design.
PRIZES.
The UK winner of the Emerging Voices : South Asia x UK will receive:
10 - 12 day residency in Sri Lanka including flights, accommodation and meals in January 2026
The opportunity to collaborate with a Sri Lankan emerging designer, and together create new pieces / outfits with Sri Lankan artisans and craftspeople
Be mentored by industry experts
The opportunity to showcase the new works and take part in panel discussions and workshops in Sri Lanka
The opportunity to showcase the new works and take part in panel discussions and workshops at Fashion Scout during London Fashion Week
Featured coverage on Fashion Scout and AOD media channels (200k audience)
APPLICATIONS.
Applications are open until 23.59 on 7th December 2025 (UK time)
Simply complete the application form at the bottom of this page
WHO CAN APPLY.
This competition is open to emerging designers and graduates
Emerging designers and graduates
Based in the United Kingdom
Womenswear, menswear or unisex (gender neutral) fashion (not accessories or footwear)
Be available and able to travel to Sri Lanka for a 10 - 12 residency in January 2026
Participate in a series of online mentoring sessions and workshops in December
Be available to attend Fashion Scout during London Fashion Week 20 - 21 February 2026
Be prepared to work collaboratively in the creation of new pieces / outfits
Be prepared to join discussion panels to discuss their experiences and the work
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
Phase 1 — Online Mentoring & Exchange ( 16 - 22 Dec 2025)
Online workshops with mentors, artisans & participants (part-time)
Research, co-creation & concept development.
Phase 2 — Residency in Colombo, Sri Lanka (10–21 Jan 2026)
10–12 days in Sri Lanka collaborating with the Sri Lankan designer and master artisans to produce 1–3 looks.
Phase 3 — Public Showcases
Colombo Showcase: 19 - 21 Jan 2026
London Showcase: 21–22 Feb 2026
Please note the above dates may be subject to change
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN
International creative collaboration
Hands-on work with heritage craft experts
Portfolio-ready fashion looks
Skills in sustainable & culturally sensitive design
Exposure during London Fashion Week
A platform for global visibility
Mentorship from industry leaders in both countries
EMERGING VOICES : SOUTH ASIA X UK
A new cross-cultural fashion and textile collaboration supported by the British Council’s Connections Through Culture programme.
The project explores identity, sustainability, and cultural heritage, merging traditional South Asian craftsmanship with innovative contemporary design.
Fashion is a growing force in South Asia’s creative economy, and Sri Lanka is uniquely positioned at its heart, with centuries of textile heritage, a forward-thinking apparel industry, and a new wave of design talent. Blending traditional crafts with sustainable, high-tech innovation, Sri Lanka offers a distinctive voice in global fashion.
Since 2001, AOD (Academy of Design), the country’s leading design educator, has played a key role in shaping this identity - mentoring young creatives and connecting low-tech artisanal skills with advanced manufacturing. This fusion has helped define Sri Lanka’s emerging fashion signature, attracting international attention.
This programme is proudly led by FASHION SCOUT, a London-based, award-winning showcasing, talent accelerator platform and creative consultancy.
Specialising in creating and delivering high profile events and programs, Fashion Scout strikes a unique balance between creativity and business, bringing brands to the forefront of the international fashion industry.
This programme is supported by the British Council’s Connections Through Culture programme
For Questions & Inquiries: Sally Jensen
Connections Through Culture Programme
The British Council’s Connections Through Culture (CTC) Programme support artistic collaboration between the UK and countries in the Asia-Pacific and Europe. The grants support collaborative projects between artists, creative practitioners and arts organisations, fostering cross-cultural exchange and lasting relationships.
