Natalie Jayasuriya speaks about her tryst with fashion

It was during COVID-19 that Natalie Jayasuriya, born in the UK to Sri Lankan parents, identified an opportunity in the online fashion market. Recognising a gap, she launched FROKME, a multi-vendor platform and her own brand FROK, a label that not only catered to a growing demand for fashion and style, but also supported Sri Lanka's local apparel industry, which was struggling during the crisis. Her commitment to empowering local vendors and artisans has been a cornerstone of her philosophy. Since its inception, FROK has grown beyond Sri Lanka, launching in India in 2023 and expanding to the UAE in 2024. Natalie has also opened her first boutique in Colombo, FROKME, cementing her status as a fashion entrepreneur. FROK.AE is now online in the UAE.

- Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

"Fashion can intersect with social service in several ways, both directly and indirectly," says Al. "Directly, fashion can be used as a tool for social service, such as through ethical and sustainable fashion practices that benefit workers and the environment. Focusing on fair labour standards, environmental sustainability, and responsible sourcing, can directly benefit workers and the planet."