International fashion designer Priyanka Mallick uses her art to champion global peace and environmental conservation, drawing on diverse cultural and educational experiences.
HARMONY’S CROWN OF MOTHER NATURE By Priyanka Mallick
In the glamorous yet fiercely competitive world of fashion design, Priyanka Mallick stands out not just for her aesthetic sensibilities but for her relentless commitment to using fashion as a vehicle for social change and peace-building. A native of Badinan in Hooghly, West Bengal, India, Mallick’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of art and education.
With an impressive academic background that spans some of the world’s leading institutions, including fashion studies in Milan, Italy, and at the University of Fashion in California, along with further enrichment at Harvard, Stanford, and Cambridge Universities, Mallick has harnessed her learning to push for global peace and environmental stewardship.
Her latest project, an illustration titled “Harmony’s Crown of Mother Nature,” beautifully encapsulates her mission. The artwork, which features Mother Nature adorned with a crown of delicate flowers and butterflies, centers around Earth, symbolized with a peacock feather overhead representing cosmic energy and renewal.
This piece has not only adorned various United Nations banners but also positioned Mallick as a speaker at significant international forums like the G20, COP28, and the Nobel Prize Summit, advocating for peace and sustainable development. NATO Summit, United Nations AI for Good Geneva Summit, United Nations SDG Summit, UNESCO transforming Education Summit and Many more High level meeting
Beyond her art, Mallick’s designs actively promote peace, with specific collections dedicated to ceasing conflicts such as those in Ukraine and between Israel and Palestine. Her influence has reached global platforms, where her voice and creations urge political leaders and communities alike towards reconciliation and understanding.
Recognition for her work is extensive. Mallick won the International Fashion Designer Marathon in Milan in 2019, was named Fashion Stylist of the Year the same year, and received the Design Hero award in Rome in 2022. Most notably, she recently designed a dress for Her Majesty Queen Camilla and a brooch for His Majesty King Charles III for their coronation, further cementing her role in high-profile international events.
Behind her profound achievements and relentless energy is her husband, Prof Dr. Susanta Banerjee, whom Mallick describes as her “inspiration and entire energy like the Sun.” His support and encouragement have been pivotal in her journey.
From a small village to the global stage, Priyanka Mallick’s story is not just about the success of an international fashion designer but about the potent role of fashion in driving the narrative of peace and the urgent need to protect our planet. Her work and advocacy continue to inspire many, bridging the gap between art, fashion, and international diplomacy in the quest for a more harmonious world.
United Nations Future Summit, New York 21st September 2024
In addressing the profound challenges of our time—war, humanitarian crises, mental health struggles, and climate emergencies—building a global governance system that prioritizes collaboration and inclusivity is critical. To achieve this, we must ensure that governance structures at all levels are not only transparent but actively inclusive of marginalized voices, especially those from vulnerable communities that are often most affected by these crises.
Firstly, we must prioritize equitable representation in decision-making forums. This means including individuals from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds and ensuring that women, indigenous communities, and youth are given an active role in shaping policies. Their experiences and insights are invaluable and often provide perspectives that traditional power structures overlook.
Secondly, fostering collaboration across borders and sectors is essential. Governments, civil society, businesses, and international organizations must work in unison, breaking down silos to create innovative, cross-disciplinary solutions. Technology and digital platforms can help bridge geographical divides and enable broader participation in global governance discussions.
Finally, education and awareness are key. We must invest in building a global citizenry that is informed, engaged, and empowered to hold leaders accountable. This includes integrating critical issues like climate action and mental health awareness into education systems to ensure that future generations are equipped to lead inclusively and compassionately.
By cultivating a culture of listening, learning, and collective action, we can create a global governance system that not only addresses the challenges we face but does so by uplifting the voices of those who have long been silenced. Only then can we build a future that is just, equitable, and resilient for all.
