“Creativity heals the world.” — Evie Evangelou
From couture to diplomacy, Evie Evangelou continues to redefine fashion as a platform for sustainable development, peacebuilding, and global change. At the heart of all her work is a singular belief: style can be a tool for good.
Fashion as a Global Force
Evangelou is the President and Founder of Fashion 4 Development (F4D), a private-sector platform launched in 2011 in support of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. Since 2015, F4D has aligned with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, transforming fashion into a force for sustainability, cultural diplomacy, education, gender equality, and economic empowerment.
Evangelou’s influence spans fashion, entertainment, arts, and diplomacy. She previously served as interim Deputy Secretary-General of the World Federation of the United Nations, working with over 100 UN member states, and was appointed by former UN Under-Secretary-General Kensaku Hogen as Special Consultant for Cultural and Educational Affairs.
“Evie Evangelou is a visionary leader who proves that fashion can drive global progress,” said Amir Dossal, President and CEO of Global Partnerships Forum and Chairman of SDG News. “Through F4D, she has transformed the industry into a force for sustainability, cultural diplomacy, and women’s empowerment. She is not only shaping trends — but shaping the future.”
Her global impact has earned her recognition from governments, the U.S. Senate, and major institutions. In 2013, she received the Humanitarian Award from Fashion Group International for her commitment to social change through fashion.
Her signature initiative, the First Ladies Luncheon, held annually in New York during the UN General Assembly, brings together First Ladies, diplomats, and changemakers to advance F4D’s “4Es”: Educate, Empower, Enhance, and Enrich. In 2025, this gathering will coincide with the release of a new F4D coffee table book — a stunning and powerful volume celebrating design, storytelling, and sustainable development, co-authored by international artist and writer Stephanie Dillon. An exhibition, book signing, and cocktail reception will follow. Stay tuned for more details and the official launch date.
WATCH THE AMBASSADORS SUMMER CIRCLE 2025 VIDEO
The Global Runway 2026
Evangelou’s latest project—the bold and visionary Global Runway 2026—brings the world together for a cultural runway show inside the UN General Assembly Hall. It’s not just a show—it’s a statement. Co-authored with international artist and writer Stephanie Dillon, the initiative includes a third film series and a Global Runway coffee table book. Together, they spotlight international designers and the stories behind their cultures.
The goals? Peace, reconciliation, cultural education and exchange, opportunity, sustainability, and unity.
In an exclusive conversation with SDG News, Evangelou shared experiences and the motivations behind her groundbreaking initiatives—from empowering emerging designers to mobilizing diplomacy through style. She emphasized fashion’s role in shaping a more sustainable future:
- The industry’s footprint: Fashion must transition to circular design, responsible materials, sustainable supply chain and fair labor.
- A shifting consumer: She celebrates the rise of vintage fashion and local designers—evidence of a changing mindset.
Complex choices: Evangelou discussed the confusion many consumers face—from the ethics of leather to the downsides of petroleum-based faux fur. The industry must take the lead with more clear messaging utilizing all of the platforms and tools of some of the world’s top marketers. - Cultural diplomacy through design: With the Global Runway expanding worldwide, she continues to amplify local talent and promote cross-cultural collaboration.
- Evangelou weighed in on the confusion caused by tariffs and the unintended consequences of shutting down budding local industries of sustainable fashion the fast fashion industry can’t emulate.
She also spoke about the importance of engaging CEOs, investors, diplomats, and heads of state, expressing a deep commitment to building bridges between sectors in the name of sustainability and peace.
“Know anything is possible if it comes from the heart, and you have the passion to do it.” — Evie Evangelou
A Career of Global Recognition
Beyond the Runway
For Evangelou, fashion is just one piece of a broader lifestyle movement.
“Sustainable living is the new fashion,” she told SDG News, advocating for conscious choices in everything from furniture to home design and “giving back is the new luxury.”
“We don’t do red carpets. We do green carpets.” — Evie Evangelou
Evie Evangelou is not just shaping trends. She’s shaping the future. To learn more and get involved check out the Fashion 4 Development
Follow SDG News on LinkedIn
