Unlocking the Secret Sauce: A Flavorful Blend of Innovation and Solutions
7th International Conference on Textiles
A cherished tradition now in its sixth year, TEXtalks International proudly hosted the Inspiring Change Conference 2024 on September 27 at the Pearl Continental in Lahore. This year’s ICC garnered an enthusiastic response from the textile industry, reflecting a collective commitment to driving sustainable change. With a vision centered on innovation and collaboration, the conference aimed to address the challenges faced by the sector through fresh perspectives and cutting-edge technologies.
The event brought together around 300 key participants, including global leaders and stakeholders in textiles, who gathered under one roof to explore sustainable solutions. From insightful presentations to dynamic panel discussions, no stone was left unturned in this power-packed conference. The topics covered were both relevant and forward-thinking, encompassing areas such as circularity, sustainability, artificial intelligence, global cotton trade, and emerging trends in the garment industry.
In conjunction with the conference, the Create2Inspire Fashion Student Design Competition showcased the incredible talent of emerging designers. This exciting initiative invited fashion students from various institutions to present their innovative concepts, focusing on sustainability and creativity within the textile industry.Participants had the opportunity to display their designs through display and RampWalk, which emphasized eco-friendly materials and forward-thinking aesthetics, aligning perfectly with the conference’s commitment to sustainable practices. The event drew significant attention, with industry experts serving as judges, providing valuable feedback and guidance to the students. This vibrant platform allowed participants to connect with key figures in the textile and fashion sectors, fostering relationships that could shape their future careers. The Create2Inspire Competition was a testament to the importance of nurturing talent and innovation in the pursuit of a more sustainable and vibrant textile industry.
In conclusion, ICC 2024 served as a powerful platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, reaffirming its role as a leader in fostering sustainable practices within the textile and fashion industries. As participants left with new ideas and connections, the conference underscored the importance of unity and innovation in navigating the complexities of today’s market.
Distinguished Guests
This year, ICC 2024 was honored to welcome Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, whose presence underscored the vital connection between governance and the textile industry. His address provided invaluable insights into the policy frameworks necessary for fostering a sustainable and competitive sector. Kristin K. Hawkins, U.S. Consul General in Lahore, also graced the event, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by the industry. The conference commenced with an engaging welcome speech by Kamran Arshad, Chairman of the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA). In his remarks, he emphasized the critical role of the textile industry in Pakistan’s economy, highlighting its significance as a major source of employment and export revenue.
Keynote Presentations
The presentations at ICC 2024 captivated attendees with a wide array of topics that encompassed both current trends and future trade opportunities. Participants were fully engaged, as the insights shared by textile experts ignited their curiosity and encouraged thoughtful discussions. The combination of national and international perspectives added depth to the discourse, highlighting the global nature of the textile industry.
The themes of the presentations included:
• Cotton Connections: Analyzing World Cotton Sustainability by William Bettendorf, Director South Asia and Supply Chain Marketing of Cotton Council International, U.S.
• Future of Sustainable and Recycled Textiles by Rizwan Afzal Ch, Chief Operating Officer of Lucky Core Industries
• Mills Performance Index: Achievements and data analysis by Joerg Bauersachs, Technical Team Head of Cotton Council International U.S.A
• Sustainable Future with all Seasons Applications by Ismail Yordan Usuluddin of Asia Pacific Rayon
Panel Discussion – Highlights
At ICC 2024, panel discussions take center stage as a highlight of the conference, showcasing the diverse voices and expertise within the textile industry. Esteemed panelists from various backgrounds and sectors come together to share their insights and perspectives, fostering a rich dialogue that addresses the most pressing issues facing the industry today.
This year’s panel discussions promise to be particularly impactful, as thought leaders engage in deep conversations about innovation, sustainability, and the future of textiles. Participants will explore a wide range of topics, from emerging technologies and sustainable practices to market trends and consumer behavior, ensuring a comprehensive examination of the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Panel 1: Stirring the Pot: Flavorful Solutions for Navigating Challenges and Future Opportunities in the Field of Fibers
The panel focused on the critical issues surrounding the sourcing and sustainability of raw materials like cotton in the textile and fashion industry. As the sector faces increasing pressure from both consumers and regulatory bodies to adopt sustainable practices, panelists addressed the multifaceted challenges of securing ethical, eco-friendly materials while staying competitive in a fast-evolving market. For this impactful discussion, the following industry leaders shared their insights:
• Mazhar Mirza. Country Representative Pakistan. C.C.l, U.S.A.
• Carlos Garcia. Director of Sales. Plains Cotton Cooperative Association
• Beau Stephenson. Senior Vice President. Omnicotton
• Cameron Austin. General Manager. Brighann Marketing Inc
• Asif Inam. Chairman. All Pakistan Textiles Mill Association
Panel 2: Innovative Cuisine: Sautéing Struggles and Future Horizons in the Textile and Fashion Industry
The second panel of the conference brought together industry leaders to explore the complex challenges and exciting opportunities in the realm of sustainable fashion. Panelists delved into the pressing issues of waste, resource depletion, and the need for a shift toward circular practices, drawing parallels to the culinary arts where every ingredient must be thoughtfully utilized. For this panel discussion, the following were the group participants:
• Mujeeb Ullah Khan. CEO. iTextiles (Pvt) Ltd
• Fabrizio Maggi. Commercial Director, South Asia. The Lycra® Company
• Joachim Hensch. (EX MD. Hugo Boss.)
• Yulia Bazhenova. Head of Project, TextILES. GIZ
• Yasir Nawab. Professor. National Textile University, Pakistan
Panel 3: Unlocking the Secret Sauce: How can the Textile Industry Cope with Global Economic Shocks and Uncertainties?
The final panel of the conference delved into the critical strategies needed for resilience in the face of economic volatility. Panelists emphasized the importance of adaptability and innovation, urging businesses to embrace agility in their operations to navigate unforeseen challenges. Participants explored various approaches to mitigate risks, such as diversifying supply chains and investing in sustainable practices that not only reduce costs but also enhance brand reputation. Furthermore, the panel examined the role of stakeholder collaboration in creating a more robust and resilient industry. For this enlightening discussion, the following industry leaders shared their insights:
• Anees M Khawaja. CEO, MG Apparel
• Umar Bin Asad. Country Head, Li & Fung Pakistan
• Azfar Hasan. Founder, Lulusar & Matrix Sourcing
• Shahid Tata. Managing Director. TATA Industries Pakistan
• Joerg Bauersachs. Senior Operating Executive. C.C.l, U.S.A.
