Atira x Ewma
/Show Day
DAY3, APR 10
/Social Media
Atira Women’s Resource Society is a not-for-profit organization committed to ending violence against women, children, and those who identify as women. Through safe housing and essential support services, Atira works to create lasting change. As part of this mission, Atira operates innovative social enterprises, including Enterprising Women Making Art (EWMA).
EWMA is a unique program that empowers women in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, many of whom face challenges such as violence, poverty, and mental health struggles. Through art, participants find a space for healing, self-expression, and financial independence.
The talented artists and artisans at EWMA create a diverse range of works, including fashion designs, textiles, visual arts, ceramics, and photography. Their creations not only highlight their skills but also serve as a powerful testament to their resilience and creativity. Since 2015, EWMA has proudly participated in Vancouver Fashion Week, where the artists' designs take center stage, providing them with well-deserved recognition and empowerment.
By combining social entrepreneurship with creative expression, EWMA continues to support women in rebuilding their lives—one artistic creation at a time.
PREVIOUS COLLECTIONS
What inspired the creation of EWMA?
EWMA was launched in 2003 as an initiative of Atira Women’s Resource Society to provide women facing barriers to traditional employment with safe, income-generating opportunities. It combines art, community, and social entrepreneurship to support creative and economic empowerment.
How would you describe Atira x EWMA’s approach to fashion?
Atira x EWMA brings community-based creativity and social entrepreneurship into fashion. Its artists and artisans create work that reflects individual creativity and lived experience while using artistic practice as a pathway for self-expression, recognition, and economic empowerment.
What can people expect from your Vancouver Fashion Week collection?
The SS26 collection is inspired by the beach and ocean, particularly the meeting of sky, sea, and land. Flowing silhouettes and soft fabrics create a resort-inspired feeling centered on comfort, movement, and the atmosphere of the coast.
How does participating in Vancouver Fashion Week support EWMA’s artists?
Vancouver Fashion Week gives EWMA artists an opportunity to present community-made designs on an international runway. Since 2015, these presentations have provided greater recognition and visibility while celebrating the creativity and achievements of participating artists.
How does fashion contribute to EWMA’s mission of empowerment?
EWMA uses creative work and entrepreneurship to support self-expression, skill development, and income generation. Fashion is part of a broader program designed to increase participants’ access to economic opportunities while recognizing their talents and capabilities.