In a move that reaffirms fashion’s global shift toward inclusivity and cultural cross-pollination, Donatella Versace has been named President of the Jury for the Latin American Fashion Awards 2025, taking place November 6–9 in the Dominican Republic.
The appointment marks more than just another accolade in Versace’s storied career — it’s a symbolic bridge between Italian luxury heritage and the powerful wave of Latin creativity redefining contemporary fashion.
“I have always championed the next generation of design talent,” said Versace. “It has never been more important to support and encourage our global creative community, and I am honored to be President of the Latin American Fashion Awards.”
A Historic Collaboration of Worlds
The announcement signals a defining moment for both Italy and Latin America — two regions bound by craftsmanship, emotion, and storytelling. Versace’s involvement lends monumental visibility to the Awards, which have quickly become a global platform spotlighting designers, artists, and cultural innovators across Latin America and its diaspora.
Under her leadership, a powerhouse jury has been assembled — featuring Nina García of ELLE US, Imran Amed of The Business of Fashion, Steven Kolb of the CFDA, Gabriela Hearst, Anna Dello Russo, Carlo Capasa, and other prominent voices who collectively shape the future of the industry.
For Latin designers, having Versace at the helm is more than prestige — it’s recognition from one of the most iconic creative figures of modern fashion that their artistry deserves the same global spotlight as Paris, Milan, and New York.
Donatella’s Next Chapter: Mentorship and Meaning
This new role follows a pivotal transition in Versace’s own journey. After nearly three decades as the house’s Creative Director, she stepped into the role of Chief Brand Ambassador earlier this year, continuing to champion Versace’s legacy while expanding her focus on philanthropy, diversity, and mentorship.
Her influence has long transcended the runway — from launching the careers of designers like JW Anderson, Anthony Vaccarello, and Christopher Kane to shaping pop-culture moments that defined eras (see: J.Lo’s green Versace dress that broke the internet). Now, she brings that same eye for talent and fearlessness to a new frontier: amplifying Latin voices in fashion.
Celebrating “Hot by Heritage”
This year’s Awards theme, Hot by Heritage, encapsulates the fiery energy and resilience of Latin identity — a celebration of roots that ignite global creativity. Winners announced in November will not only receive recognition but also enter a dedicated growth program during Milan Fashion Week 2026, fostering mentorship, international visibility, and long-term impact.
Founded by Constanza Cavalli Etro and Silvia Argüello, the Latin American Fashion Awards have earned the nickname “the Oscars of Latin Fashion” — with their inaugural edition attracting talent from over 25 countries and generating more than 3.3 billion media impressions.
A New Era of Cultural Exchange
Versace’s presidency signals a new kind of diplomacy in fashion — one where legacy brands use their influence to champion fresh perspectives. For Versace, an Italian house synonymous with boldness and sensuality, the partnership underscores a shared spirit with Latin creators: passion, color, heritage, and unshakable identity.
In bringing together Milan’s opulence and Latin America’s creative fire, Donatella Versace is once again proving what she always has — that fashion’s most transformative moments happen when borders blur and new voices are given the stage.
