In a world filled with stereotypes and judgment, Frances Helena, a 32-year-old Filipino-Australian hearing-impaired fashion designer, has proven that embracing diversity and creativity can lead to a successful and fulfilling career.
As the brains behind Beautifully Diverse Fashion, Helena’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of inclusivity.
Born in the Philippines, Helena’s family migrated to Australia when she was twelve. Her multicultural upbringing fueled her desire to work abroad and give back to the Filipino community.
“This motivated me to do something more with my life, and to give back to the Filipino community. To inspire the kids to be more in their life, and to really take a chance to see what is out there within the world,” she shared.
Her designs have been showcased in New York Fashion Week, and she has been invited to prestigious events like The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA) in New York and Women Of Heart Awards (WOHA) in London. In addition, Helena has partnered with several international businesses and sponsors to support her brand’s global growth.
Helena emphasizes that her success is not solely about fashion; it’s about supporting her team of models and photographers, giving them the recognition they deserve.
“What we do is more than just about fashion, it’s about being able to support our team of models and photographers. It’s about giving them the value and credibility that they deserve because without them we have no fashion show,” she added.
Working overseas has allowed Helena to explore her creativity and connect with Filipinos around the world. She appreciates the global Filipino community and its contributions to various creative industries.
“So being Filipino is a matter of pride for we are very well-rounded people in the creative industries,” Helena said.
Despite facing struggles as a migrant, Helena chose to educate others about her culture rather than engaging in conflict. She found inspiration in her mother’s strength and work ethic, learning the importance of hard work and dedication.
Helena’s future plans include continuing to work overseas while advocating for various causes such as mothers in fashion, gun control, and disability awareness.
Her advice for fellow kabayans struggling abroad is to remember their roots and the supportive global Filipino community.
“Remember who you are, you are our kabayan, and a Pinoy,” she said.
As Helena continues to break barriers and inspire others, she encourages the support of fellow kabayans and their businesses.
You can follow her journey and show support on Instagram @beautifully.diverse.fashion.
Breaking barriers: The inspiring journey of a hearing-impaired Filipino-Australian fashion designer
In a world filled with stereotypes and judgment, Frances Helena, a 32-year-old Filipino-Australian hearing-impaired fashion designer, has proven that embracing diversity and creativity can lead to a successful and fulfilling career.
As the brains behind Beautifully Diverse Fashion, Helena’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of inclusivity.
Born in the Philippines, Helena’s family migrated to Australia when she was twelve. Her multicultural upbringing fueled her desire to work abroad and give back to the Filipino community.
“This motivated me to do something more with my life, and to give back to the Filipino community. To inspire the kids to be more in their life, and to really take a chance to see what is out there within the world,” she shared.
Her designs have been showcased in New York Fashion Week, and she has been invited to prestigious events like The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA) in New York and Women Of Heart Awards (WOHA) in London. In addition, Helena has partnered with several international businesses and sponsors to support her brand’s global growth.
Helena emphasizes that her success is not solely about fashion; it’s about supporting her team of models and photographers, giving them the recognition they deserve.
“What we do is more than just about fashion, it’s about being able to support our team of models and photographers. It’s about giving them the value and credibility that they deserve because without them we have no fashion show,” she added.
Working overseas has allowed Helena to explore her creativity and connect with Filipinos around the world. She appreciates the global Filipino community and its contributions to various creative industries.
“So being Filipino is a matter of pride for we are very well-rounded people in the creative industries,” Helena said.
Despite facing struggles as a migrant, Helena chose to educate others about her culture rather than engaging in conflict. She found inspiration in her mother’s strength and work ethic, learning the importance of hard work and dedication.
Helena’s future plans include continuing to work overseas while advocating for various causes such as mothers in fashion, gun control, and disability awareness.
Her advice for fellow kabayans struggling abroad is to remember their roots and the supportive global Filipino community.
“Remember who you are, you are our kabayan, and a Pinoy,” she said.
As Helena continues to break barriers and inspire others, she encourages the support of fellow kabayans and their businesses.
You can follow her journey and show support on Instagram @beautifully.diverse.fashion.
