The Acid Survivors' Foundation (ASF) and the Australian High Commission organised 'Projapoti Christmas Collection 2009 Charity Fashion Show' yesterday where clothes and other fashion items made by acid violence survivors were put on display.

The Fashion Show was held to formally inaugurate the 'Projapoti (butterfly) Fashion Design Training House', a project of ASF to help acid survivors regain their self-confidence and skills through vocational training in fashion and clothing production, says a press release.

State Minister for Women and Cliildren Affairs Dr Shirin Sharmin Choudhury, ASF Chairperson Parveen Mahmud, ASF Executive Director Monira Rahman and Australian High Commissioner Justin Lee thanked the contributors and congratulated everyone involved in the project.

'Projapoti' has produced a limited edition of handcrafted products all made by acid survivors themselves during the training period.

Acid survivors together with Australian Youth Ambassadors and students from the NSU Earth Club walked the red carpet, modelling various tunics, punjabis and shirts, as well as other accessories.

The 'Projapoti' or butterfly label was chosen by acid survivors for the fashion project to symbolise the transformation and inner growth that survivors go through to realise their potential.

Technical assistance for the show was provided by Beauty Expert Kaneez Almas Khan of Persona Beauty Care while Bitopi Advertising Limited designed the logo.

The event was organised through the joint efforts of Option, with voluntary contributions from fashion designers Rowshan Ara Begum, and, Swati' Bhuiyan "arid- Pfbyetf" ManagerTmekeKemena: ’T ™