We are excited to share a significant milestone in our journey! Cultural Fashion & Arts has achieved the new Social Enterprise World Forum 'People and Planet First’ verification and are listed on the SEWF Good Market Network Page.
The Social Enterprise World Forum which started out as an annual event, grew to become the leading agency for the social enterprise movement. They are part of a global response to a broken economic system that is increasing inequality and causing a climate emergency.
To further address this, the Social Enterprise World Forum has worked with partners around the world to develop a global social enterprise verification making it easier for organisations like ours to access crucial resources, funding opportunities, and essential partnerships. As a result of this, the new ‘People and Planet First’ global verification was created and launched at the Social Enterprise World Forum in Amsterdam on 12 October, 2023.
To gain verification, social enterprises must be able to demonstrate that they prioritise people, planet and purpose in operational and strategic decisions, are purpose-led – existing to solve a social or environmental problem, choose legal structures and financing that protect and lock in the purpose for the long term and have a self-sustaining revenue model as well as reinvesting the majority of surpluses towards its purpose.
Helene Malandain, chair of the Social Enterprise World Forum (SEWF), described this as “an identity that has relevance to those who are part of the movement and beyond”, and that it could help “pave the way towards a new economy”.
This new verification in addition to our Good Market Recognition and membership, solidifies our commitment to celebrating diverse cultures and aligns with our mission to work collaboratively and fairly with cultural fashion and art groups worldwide.
Good Market is a digital commons that makes it easier to find and connect with social enterprises, cooperatives, responsible businesses, civic organisations, networks, and change-makers who are creating a better world.
At Cultural Fashion & Arts, our mission transcends borders. We are not just a fashion and arts organisation; we want to be part of a global community that celebrates cultural diversity and creativity. Being recognised by Social Enterprise World Forum and Good Market emphasises our dedication to fostering cross-cultural collaborations, empowering artisans, and championing sustainable practices in the fashion and arts industry, and this resonates profoundly with our role as the official community event partner for Cultural Style Week, where we facilitate connections, amplify voices, and create opportunities for cultural fashion and art businesses globally.
“As a proud member of Social Enterprise UK, Social Enterprise World Forum and Good Market, achieving the new ‘People and Planet First’ verification symbolises our commitment to nurturing a global community where cultural diversity thrives. These accreditations enable us to expand our reach, access valuable resources, and collaborate with partners who share our passion for social impact. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the positive changes we can create together.”
- Candy-Ellie Graham, Founder of Cultural Fashion & Arts