On the second day of the Creative Women Symposium, held at the Royal Automobile Club in London. Organised by Olga Balakleets, Founder and CEO of the Creative Women Platform, this event brought together leaders from diverse fields to explore their experiences and insights for the future—a future in which women innovate, invest, and create. Attendees were captivated by a dynamic panel titled "Redefining Fashion: Innovation, Authenticity, and Business in a Changing Industry." The panel was a highlight of the event, effectively serving as the “crowning touch” that encapsulated the symposium’s key themes.
Moderator: Rebeca Riofrio
Curating and moderating the discussion was Rebeca Riofrio, Chair of the UK Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion, and Sports. With a career spanning arts, fashion, education, and media, Rebeca is known for her ability to bridge the creative and business worlds, empowering women through platforms like Art in Fusion TV. She opened the panel by reflecting on the Creative Women Platform’s role in fostering authentic connections and providing a space for women to amplify their voices. "This platform thrives on authentic connections," Rebeca remarked, "a place where new ideas flourish, and real impact is made."
Oriona Robb – Embracing Authenticity Through Personal Style
The first to respond was Oriona Robb, a style consultant celebrated for her approach to authenticity in personal style. Growing up in Poland, where her mother owned a denim shop, Oriona developed an early appreciation for how fashion can empower individuals. Today, she helps clients reconnect with their identities through mindful wardrobe choices, moving beyond trends to promote confidence and self-worth.
When asked how she advises clients to balance their personal identities with professional expectations, Oriona responded, "Authenticity doesn’t mean rebelling—it means finding quiet confidence in who you are, regardless of the environment." She elaborated that clients, particularly those in corporate settings, often struggle with the pressure to conform. "I guide them to align their style with their values, so they can feel authentic even within structured settings," she explained.
Oriona also touched on the importance of conscious consumption, noting that many of her clients’ wardrobes contain unworn items. "Consumerism can lead to buying without purpose," she remarked. "I help clients consider their purchases more carefully, which benefits both the planet and their finances."
When asked by Rebeca what advice she would give to those entering the fashion industry with unique perspectives, Oriona’s response was both simple and powerful: "Stay true to your vision. Investors and clients respect authenticity." Her words reinforced the importance of genuine expression as a foundation for success.
Leanne Elliott Young – Leading Fashion’s Digital Future
Next, Leanne Elliott Young, Co-Founder and CEO of the Institute of Digital Fashion, shared her insights. Recognised as one of the most influential women in Europe’s Web3 space, Leanne has helped redefine digital possibilities in fashion through AI, AR, and Web3. Her collaborations with brands like Meta and Prada underscore her vision for an inclusive, tech-driven future.
Rebeca asked Leanne how emerging brands could leverage technology to foster authentic connections. Leanne responded, "It’s about meeting people where they are digitally, but with integrity." She explained that while digital innovation offers endless possibilities, it must be applied ethically. "The challenge," she noted, "is to embrace technology without losing the human touch. Brands need to ensure inclusivity and respect for their audiences."
Rebeca then pressed Leanne on the obstacles facing brands as they navigate digital transformation. Leanne highlighted the tension between progress and responsibility, stating, "It’s easy to be dazzled by tech advancements, but the real task is implementing them thoughtfully. Inclusivity must remain central to ensure no one is left behind." Her perspective illustrated the need for brands to adopt digital strategies that genuinely engage and respect their audiences.
Georgia Meacham – Advocating for Inclusion in Fashion
Lastly, Georgia Meacham, an actor, model, and disability advocate, shared her perspective on inclusion within the fashion industry. Living with hearing loss, Georgia has become a powerful advocate for inclusivity, using her experiences to raise awareness and encourage acceptance.
Rebeca asked Georgia to discuss the barriers she’s encountered and the changes she hopes to see in the industry. Georgia replied, "Living with hearing loss isn’t something I chose, but it’s part of my identity. My hope is that the industry moves beyond superficial inclusion and creates spaces where everyone is genuinely represented." She highlighted the need for meaningful diversity that goes beyond tokenism. "Inclusivity means allowing all voices to be heard and making accessibility the norm, not an afterthought," she added.
When asked to reflect on the challenges of balancing vulnerability with the industry’s often rigid beauty standards, Georgia shared a candid story. Early in her career, she recalled being asked to remove her hearing aids during a photoshoot because they weren’t "aesthetic." She described it as a turning point, where she resolved to embrace her identity openly. "Being vulnerable in this field can be difficult," she admitted. "There’s often a stigma that vulnerability equals weakness, but I’ve found strength in fully embracing who I am." She highlighted that in the UK, deafness is the second most common disability, underscoring the importance of true representation.
Tradition Meets Innovation
Rebeca closed the session by asking the panellists to reflect on how the industry can evolve while preserving its values. Leanne offered a resonant insight, saying, "Fashion is evolving, but we must evolve with integrity. Technology can bridge gaps, but it’s up to us to ensure it reflects our values." This sentiment captured the spirit of the symposium, emphasising the balance of progress with purpose.
Rebeca ended with a reflection on the power of dialogue, connection, and inclusion. "In an industry that often defines itself by trends, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters," she observed. "But today’s conversation reminds us that inclusion, creativity, and courage are what ultimately drive lasting impact."
The panel demonstrated the Creative Women Platform’s mission to empower women by fostering collaboration, authenticity, and meaningful change. As the session drew to a close, attendees left with renewed purpose, inspired by the diverse voices shaping the future of fashion.
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