Fashion Designer Cooperates with HIV positive in Cambodia

By Soy Sophea

An internationally-renowned fashion designer Bibi Rusell, the UNDP and the Modern Dress Sewing Factory (MDSF), an all-female business subsidiary of the Network for People Living with HIV/AIDS in Cambodia launched a new international designer label entitled “Bibi for WE”.

Under this brand, MDSF will produce and market a range of bags designed by Bibi Russell, synonymous with leading international designer-labels and fashion-houses in the 1970s and 1980s. The products will be contemporary in style and utility while representing the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia, according to Bibi.

“If you join hands with women living with HIV/AIDS, they can create magic with their fingers,” said Bibi. Pham Srim, business manager of MDSF, said, “We don’t want sympathy, but support to live a life of respect and dignity. The project will help members of our group stand on their own feet, earn a living and remain unfazed by the egos that would trespass against us.”

She added that since MDSF began operations in 2006, there has been a marked improvement in the attitude of people towards women living with HIV/AIDS and their families.