Unlocking Fashion’s Future: Denica Riadini-Flesch, 2025 Pritzker Award Winner, Reveals How Farmers and Artisans Are Vital in the Climate Battle

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 8, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Denica Riadini-Flesch, an economist and social entrepreneur, has been honored with the UCLA 2025 Pritzker Emerging Environmental Genius Award. She believes that fashion can be a powerful tool for environmental restoration and economic growth in rural communities.

After receiving the $100,000 prize, Riadini-Flesch emphasized the importance of involving farmers and artisans in climate solutions. “Artisans and farmers are crucial to solving the climate crisis,” she said. “When we center their knowledge and practices, we create effective and inclusive solutions.”

This award recognizes innovative leaders making a real difference in addressing global challenges. Riadini-Flesch is the founder of SukkhaCitta, a brand that aims to restore 2.5 million acres of land and provide jobs for 10,000 rural women in Indonesia.

Tony Pritzker, who presented the award, praised Riadini-Flesch’s approach. “She embodies a new wave of social entrepreneurs who blend sustainability with business,” he stated. This aligns with growing trends in fair-trade fashion, which emphasizes ethical practices and community engagement.

The award ceremony attracted notable figures like Yo-Yo Ma and Sylvia Earle, highlighting the growing recognition of eco-friendly initiatives. Judge Audrey Choi noted, “Denica has created a sustainable model where beautiful products help restore nature and empower communities.”

The Pritzker Award is distinct as it specifically celebrates innovators under 40. Past winners have included conservationists and entrepreneurs who reflect a diverse array of environmental solutions.

According to a recent survey by the World Bank, nearly 1.3 billion people depend on rural agriculture globally. Promoting sustainable practices can help not only the environment but also improve livelihoods. Riadini-Flesch’s work shows a promising link between fashion, sustainability, and community empowerment—a connection more entrepreneurs are beginning to explore.

Alex Hall from UCLA’s Institute of the Environment and Sustainability remarked on the potential of Riadini-Flesch’s model. “It’s a blueprint business sectors can adopt right now,” he said.

As the conversation around sustainability continues to evolve, Riadini-Flesch’s vision serves as an inspiring example for future generations.



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