Juanita Pas wants to make others think

Juanita Pas (22) wanted more of a challenge and broadened her horizons. She dropped out of her Leatherworking program and discovered the world of fashion and trends, textiles, and haute couture at Summa Fashion. A few years later, she's three exams away from her diploma, will soon be showcasing her own collection on the red carpet at Crafted Festival, and is in the running for the first MBO Crafted Award. She's keeping a level head. "I hope I can inspire others with my work."

Straight Out of the Ground is the name of the Deurne student's collection. "I've walked at Crafted before, but this time it's about my own work. Fashion inspired by the Burberry fashion house and my own vegetable garden, a hobby I started during the coronavirus pandemic. I think young people should be more aware of healthy eating. Two models will be wearing my work, but I'll also be on the catwalk myself. I'm curious to hear the jury's verdict."

Juanita and her fellow students began their orientation in April. What theme? What kind of designs? A pitch followed, after which she sought models, took measurements, and created patterns. Slowly, they came to life: a blouse, a bottom, a coat, and a couture dress. "Then you also think about the presentation, on the catwalk." At some point, Juanita received a call. "People were enthusiastic about my ideas. And now, suddenly, I'm in the running for the MBO Crafted Award. Actually, that's not really what it's about for me. I'll be happy if I can get others thinking. If I can inspire people, if people want to know more. I'm honored to be nominated."

Getting inspired by each other

Crafted Festival engages all the senses, with creative industries like fashion, food, design, engineering, beauty, music, and more. The fashion show is a highlight, but Crafted means more to Juanita. "I'm especially looking forward to seeing the work of other creative students. I can find a lot of inspiration at Crafted. There's a really great atmosphere there, where we talk and learn from each other. I have a broad interest in creative craftsmanship." This becomes clear when we ask about her future ambitions. What's next after her studies? "I dream of having my own little place where I can tattoo. There's also enough space there for a small studio with my handmade clothes. Maybe I'll do a year of welding first to save up for that dream." She laughs. "Yes, I do that too."