Come August 2003, Singapore will showcase creativity and design in the local and regional fashion industry through Singapore Fashion Week (SFW), organized by Textile & Fashion Federation Singapore (TaFf) and supported by International Enterprise Singapore (or IE Singapore). In its 16th year, SFW is organized annually with the main aim of building the industry to cultivate young talent in Singapore and the region. SFW plays an important role in the development of programmes in school curriculums, training graduates in the fashion industry, and investing and nurturing young talents in the region. “SFW aims to help local fashion businesses and designers at different stages of their development, from fledging new businesses and undergraduates, to the point where they are able to export their products. SFW aims to establish Singapore as the Fashion Business Centre of the region, showcasing the collections and work, of both local and regional designers.” says Alan Koh, Chairman of SFW’s Organizing Committee. As in year 2002, SFW2003 will herald the theme “The New AsiaTropic Style”, timed in August to coincide with the European Spring/Summer shows and fashion buying season.  Introduced in 1997, “The New AsiaTropic Style” is increasingly being recognized as a bold and unique fashion theme catering to markets with year-round tropical climates. SFW is supported by Raffles City, which plays an important corporate role as a key sponsor of SFW2003 and presenter of all events held at Raffles City Shopping Centre.  Raffles City recognizes the need for corporate citizens in Singapore to play a part in developing the prospects of young talent in the industry.    “This is the 4th year Raffles City is supporting this premier fashion event of Singapore. Our association with fashion works in perfect synergy with the positioning of Raffles City, the fashion hub of the city, and our sponsorship gives us the privilege to support the very talented fashion designers in Singapore and other parts of Asia.” says Mr Anthony Yip, General Manager of Raffles City. SFW 2003 will play a key role in promoting Singapore as a destination hub for Asian fashion, with the goal of nurturing the industry and giving young fashion graduates and designers a platform to showcase their talent.  These goals will be met through 8 main events: •Singapore Fashion Designers Contest (SFDC) •School Connexion (SC) •Singapore Designers/ Labels Show (SDLS) •The Designers Show (TDS) •Asian Young Fashion Designers Contest (AYFDC) •Singapore Fashion Awards (SFA) •Club Show - DARE TO •Modern Classic – CYC Create A Shirt Exhibition