In an inspiring collaboration, eight young women from rural India, known as the ‘Dream Weavers,’ received an extraordinary opportunity to work backstage with some of the country’s top designers, including the iconic Neeta Lulla, at the Times Lifestyle Fashion Week in Gurugram. Supported by the M3M Foundation, these talented women, who trained with the Jaipur-based start-up Jaipuri Banno, had the chance to immerse themselves in the world of high fashion. From dressing models to coordinating looks, the Dream Weavers confidently stepped into the fashion limelight.
The runway at Grand Hyatt Gurugram came alive with creativity and flair as the Times Lifestyle Fashion Week unfolded, featuring nine of India’s most dynamic designers. Neeta Lulla, Shweta Aggarwal, Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor, Charu Parashar, Prerana Grover, Rajdeep Ranawat, Reynu Taandon, Samant Chauhan, and Varija Bajaj all showcased their stunning couture collections, making it a celebration of not only fashion but empowerment and inclusivity. The event also shone a spotlight on the Dream Weavers, whose backstage support for the designers highlighted their incredible dedication, creativity, and growing skills in the fashion industry.
Aishwarya Bansal, Trustee of M3M Foundation and Co-founder of Smart World Developers, was present to witness the event, alongside Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation. Dr. Kanodia emphasized the importance of the collaboration, stating, “This is what real impact looks like, where fashion meets purpose. Giving these girls a backstage pass to India’s top fashion event is not just about exposure; it is about equity, empowerment, and blending creativity with social change. We need more cross-sector efforts like this that champion the underserved and redefine what opportunity looks like.”
The Dream Weavers program has become a symbol of transformation, offering rural talent the chance to shine and succeed in urban fashion spaces. It represents a powerful initiative where grassroots potential is not only recognized but celebrated as an equal force in the fashion world. As rural empowerment becomes a cornerstone of India’s inclusive growth, the Dream Weavers’ journey proves how nurturing talent in underserved areas can lead to extraordinary opportunities.
Their impact extended beyond backstage support in garment preparation, wardrobe assistance, styling, and accessory management. The young women also presented couture scarves to each designer, as heartfelt tokens of their craftsmanship and gratitude. This personal gesture added another layer of significance to the event, highlighting the girls’ newfound confidence and pride in their work.
The Dream Weavers’ journey is marked by milestones of growth and learning. Last year, they impressed audiences with a 16-piece collection of traditional Indian wear, modeled by top talent. This year, their behind-the-scenes experience with some of India’s most celebrated designers further enriched their skills, embodying the M3M Foundation’s commitment to grassroots transformation through skill-building and creative empowerment.
As the runway echoed with applause and flashbulbs lit up the night, the spotlight was not only on the designers’ collections but also on the inclusive spirit and the transformative vision that made the event truly remarkable. The Dream Weavers walked away with confidence, skill, and a renewed sense of self, now ready to dream bigger and bolder than ever before.
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