AIWA Launches FoundHer Award at Yerevan Fashion Week 2026

CALIFORNIA & YEREVAN, CA, UNITED STATES, November 11, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- At Yerevan Fashion Week 2026, the Armenian International Women’s Association San Francisco (AIWA-SF) launched FoundHer, a program aimed at advancing Armenian women entrepreneurs. This initiative marks a significant step in supporting the local fashion industry and elevating the voices of talented designers.

The FoundHer Award, a new collaboration between AIWA-SF and the Fashion Chamber of Armenia, recognized three emerging Armenian women designers: Loom Weaving, RUZANĒ, and Soncess. Each designer was selected based on their unique vision and contribution to the fashion scene.

Loom Weaving, founded 13 years ago by Inga Manukyan, specializes in reimagining handmade knits. Each piece is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and individuality, combining traditional hand-knitting techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Manukyan’s vision is to tell a story through each piece, making them more than just clothing but a narrative of craftsmanship and creativity.

RUZANĒ, founded by designer Ruzanna Vardanyan in 2016, embraces femininity, individuality, and art. Vardanyan’s designs are a blend of contemporary design and distinctive silhouettes, emphasizing quality, craft, and attention to detail. The brand’s philosophy is to create timeless fashion that brings together aesthetics, conscious creativity, and individuality. Vardanyan’s work is a reflection of her belief in the power of fashion to express one’s unique identity.

Sona Hakobyan, the founder of Soncess, established the brand in 2008 with a vision to create unique pieces that celebrate women who are independent and strong, yet open to emotion and meaningful connection. Hakobyan’s collection reimagines classic looks, giving them a contemporary and unique style that can be worn every day. Her philosophy is that vulnerability is not a weakness but a source of strength, freedom, and movement. Soncess’s designs are a celebration of women’s resilience and individuality.

The FoundHer program is rooted in the belief that investing in women drives leadership and impact. It is designed to help female entrepreneurs expand and grow across three pillars: technology and innovation, fashion and design, and hospitality and tourism. The initiative aims to provide the necessary support and resources to help these women succeed and thrive in their respective fields.

AIWA-SF’s Program Committee, consisting of Dr. Neesha Dave, Christine Soussa, and Tsovinar Massena, evaluated applications and selected the finalists. The committee spent the week visiting with designers, industry leaders, and community leaders, attending runway shows, and discussing business strategies. The three finalists were chosen based on their potential to make a significant impact in the fashion industry.

The launch of FoundHer at Yerevan Fashion Week 2026 is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs in the fashion industry. It not only highlights the talent and creativity of Armenian designers but also underscores the commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in business.