Designer and female entrepreneur Amanda Rabor champions diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of her work. Here, CWB learns how Rabor’s journey led her to create Mini Mode – Global Kids Fashion Week.

 

Amanda Rabor has always been visually creative, with a love for colour, form, shapes and lines. Her career spans numerous years in the creative industries, including fashion, art, photography and graphic design.

She is also passionate about personal development and evolution, which led her to undertake a BSc Psychology Degree at the University of West London and study counselling alongside her degree.

Rabor’s global perspective stems from her Nigerian father and Trinidadian mother. Her parents raised her internationally in New York and later in London, therefore giving her the chance to experience life on two different continents.

Subsequently, Rabor sees the importance of recognising and celebrating diversity and cross-cultural differences, particularly for the self-esteem of kids. This sentiment is reflected in the ethos of all of her companies.

Isossy Children

In 2010, Rabor launched childrenswear brand Isossy Children. Her vision was to create a global fashion brand to inspire confidence, creativity and self-belief in children growing up and living in diverse, global cultures.

Isossy Children offers a bold, quirky and vibrant range for kids. The fashion-forward collections take inspiration from African, Asian and Western cultures in order to empower and inspire children through clothing.

After expanding into the US market and undertaking various runway shows at New York Fashion Week, Rabor saw first-hand how empowering the brand was.

This led her to identify a gap in the UK market to create a new and consistent platform for the kids’ fashion market. One that would showcase both established and emerging childrenswear designers from around the globe during London Fashion Week.

Mini Mode was born.

 

Mini Mode – Global Kids Fashion Week

Mini Mode provides a unique spotlight on kids’ fashion, from toddlers through to teens. Since its debut in February 2018, over 40 designers from around the world have showcased their childrenswear collections on its runway.

The show has also attracted attention from celebrities, with Myleene Klass MyK and Kimberley Walsh of Kimba Kids both showcasing their kidswear ranges on the catwalk.

Following its success and global outreach, Mini Mode has rebranded as Mini Mode – Global Kids Fashion Week.

Being firmly established in the UK fashion calendar, Mini Mode is now set to enter its fifth season for February 2020.

“Now that we are entering Season 5, I’ve had a chance to really experience the power of the show,” says Rabor. “What I see emerging is empowerment and entrepreneurship support. Also, building self-esteem for kids and providing a new platform for the fashion industry that promotes inclusivity on every level.

“Because Mini Mode is still evolving, it gives people a chance to reach out to us; offer support, send suggestions and really start to be involved in the show. The last show was so dynamic, with an incredible collective offering that made the experience very special for all who attended and took part.

“It’s been challenging to start and grow a new business as one would expect. Every show has its own strength and identity and I’m enjoying the ride. As we enter a new decade, my plans for Mini Mode will unfold as Season 5 ushers in a new offering for our brands, models and consumers. My passion continues to grow and I’m very excited to move forward.”

Mini Mode is passionate about sustainability and protecting the planet. The theme for Season 5 is long-lasting fashion for the next generation.

Mini Mode – Global Kids Fashion Week Season 5 will take place across two days on the 14-15 February 2020. The venue is St Mary’s on Wyndham Place, York Street, London W1H 1PQ.

The Industry Show on Friday 14 February will present the latest a/w 20 collections. It is open to industry professionals including buyers, press, bloggers, influencers and celebrities.

There will also be two Consumer Shows open to the general public held on Saturday 15 February. The Consumer Shows will offer the latest See-Now-Buy-Now collections for s/s 20. They will also feature a selection of children’s entertainment including kids’ DJs, hosts, a pop-up shop and mini makeovers.

For further information on Mini Mode – Global Kids Fashion Week, please click here.