A New Year, Fresh Vision, Renewed Energy

January welcomed us with fresh vision, renewed energy, and a deeper appreciation for the stories we wear. A new year invites intention, not only in our goals, but in how we show up, express ourselves, and care for community. At UCOF this month, fashion once again became a powerful language of purpose, identity, and cultural pride.

Community Spotlight: Celebrating Leadership

On January 3rd, we proudly celebrated our Board President, Rufina Ajalie, as she marked two meaningful milestones: her 50th birthday and the launch of her debut book, Open Roads, Open Hearts. Rufina’s journey is one rooted in resilience, faith, and open-hearted leadership. These are values that continue to shape the spirit of UCOF and create pathways for others to thrive.

If you missed the book launch, Open Roads, Open Hearts is now available on Amazon.

Happy 50th, Rufina, and congratulations on this incredible achievement.

From the Runway to New Milestones

Halifax-based designer and founder of Celebrate Your Curves, Navdeep Parmanand, shared that her experience at the 2024 UCOF Fall Fashion Festival became a pivotal moment in her journey. Since stepping onto the UCOF runway, her work has continued to gain momentum and visibility.

This January, Navdeep was named a finalist for the 2026 Halifax Business Awards. She continues to champion inclusive design, redefine beauty standards, and show what is possible when creativity and confidence lead the way.

The Birth of the UCOF Colour Wheel

This month, we introduced the UCOF Colour Wheel across our social media platforms. This new series brings culture and colour together through highlights from the 2025 Fall Fashion Festival runway. Each look was intentional, designed not only to be seen, but to be felt.

Fashion Facts: What We Wear, Who We Become

Through our Fashion Facts series, we explored how clothing is often chosen with intention, reflecting who we are and who we are becoming. Fashion remains a powerful mindset tool that signals confidence, expresses boldness, and carries purpose.

Across cultures, clothing has always spoken. African beadwork, for example, is a visual language where colours, patterns, and placement communicate identity, status, spirituality, and stories passed down through generations.

Similarly, the Japanese kimono evolves with age, season, and occasion. From symbolic motifs like cranes and cherry blossoms to intricate silk techniques, every detail carries meaning deeply rooted in tradition.

Curious to learn more? Visit us on Instagram and Facebook for more fashion facts and cultural insights.

Fashion History Rewind: Timeless Styles

This January, our Fashion History Rewind took us back to iconic styles that continue to resonate today.

The flamenco dress originated in southern Spain and evolved from everyday wear into a powerful symbol of cultural expression. First worn by Romani women at fairs and festivals, its layered structure and dramatic movement reflect the rhythm, resilience, and emotion of the communities that shaped it.

Similarly, the Zoot Suit, emerging in the 1930s and 1940s, became fashion as resistance. Embraced by Black and Mexican American communities, its bold silhouettes claimed visibility, pride, and identity, leaving a legacy that still echoes in style today.

Growing the UCOF Community

As we move further into the year, the UCOF community continues to grow. This month, we invited passionate community members who care deeply about empowerment and cultural leadership to step forward and join the UCOF Board, contributing to strategy, governance, and meaningful partnerships.

Looking Ahead

January set the tone for a year that is intentional, bold, and community-driven. The journey continues, and we are only just getting started.

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