Antigua and Barbuda is set to make its mark on the international fashion scene as seasoned Antiguan designer Miranda Askie of MirandaAskieDesigns represents the nation at FabPassionFashionWeekNortheast2026, scheduled for October 23–24 in Springfield, Massachusetts.
The two-day fashion showcase will bring together designers of African and Caribbean heritage, providing a platform for their creativity, craftsmanship and cultural influences to be presented to an international audience. The event, now in its sixth year, is organized by Fashion Gurr, Richie Richardson and the Trinidad and Tobago-based Fab Passion organization and has received an endorsement from the City of Springfield, Massachusetts, as a major platform for Afro-Caribbean fashion.
The New York Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda was approached by the organisers to facilitate the country’s participation in this year’s showcase. Recognising the importance of presenting Antigua and Barbuda’s creative talent on an international platform, Dr. Dave Ray took the initiative to identify and secure an established local designer whose experience and creative profile aligned with the event’s requirements.
That effort resulted in the selection of Miranda Askie, who has travelled to Springfield with her chaperone, ready to represent Antigua and Barbuda and bring the nation’s distinctive creative spirit to the runway.
A significant contribution to this initiative has come from POOLWORKS, a newly established private company in Antigua responsible for constructing the island’s Olympic-style swimming pool. Owned by Mr. Gert Erick Oesenburg, POOLWORKS has generously agreed to sponsor Miranda Askie’s travel expenses, one week’s accommodation and her participation fee.
The company’s support represents a valuable investment in Antiguan talent and demonstrates how private-sector partnerships can help create international opportunities for the nation’s creative professionals.
In further recognition of his contribution to the initiative, Dr. Dave Ray has been invited to join the organization’s Board of Directors in the capacity of DFA – Diaspora Fashion Ambassador. His guidance and advice to the planning committee have reportedly been invaluable in helping advance the event’s objectives and strengthen engagement with the Caribbean diaspora.
The appointment also creates an opportunity to deepen connections between Antiguan talent, the wider Caribbean diaspora and international platforms that celebrate African and Caribbean fashion.
Looking ahead, the organizers anticipate conducting a selection process in Antigua and Barbuda next spring to identify participants for a future edition of the showcase. This initiative could open doors for additional Antiguan designers to gain international exposure, build professional relationships and contribute to the growing recognition of Caribbean fashion.
The opportunity underscores the importance of identifying, nurturing and promoting local creative talent while building partnerships that allow Antiguans to compete and collaborate beyond their shores.
As Miranda Askie prepares to showcase her work in Springfield, the nation has an opportunity to celebrate not only her talent but also the collaboration that has made her participation possible.
With the support of POOLWORKS, the facilitation of Dr. Dave Ray and the platform provided by Fab Passion Fashion Week Northeast, Antigua and Barbuda’s creative industry, takes another step towards greater international visibility.
We extend our very best wishes to Miranda Askie as she proudly represents Antigua and Barbuda. May her participation open new doors, inspire emerging designers and demonstrate to the world the creativity, elegance and cultural richness of Antiguan fashion.
For more information: Visit the official Fab Passion Fashion Week New England website at www.fpfwne.com.
Antigua and Barbuda wishes Miranda Askie every success as she takes Antiguan creativity and Caribbean heritage to the international fashion stage!
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda takes the Spotlight at FAB Passion Fashion Week Northeast 2026.