SDGs x Fashion Policy Program

York Region

Driving Change Through Sustainable Fashion Policy

Welcome to Threading Change's SDGsxFashion Policy Program, where youth empowerment meets global sustainability goals. This innovative program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to inspire systemic change in the fashion industry and beyond.

Fast fashion is one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation, social inequities, and economic exploitation. Our SDG Program tackles these challenges by empowering young leaders to address key focus areas: Innovation, Waste, Gender Equity, and Biodiversity.

The program’s growth and impact will be initiated and conducted by youth cohorts from 2025 to 2030, focusing on industry engagement, research, policy advocacy, and community involvement. By 2030, the goal is to have the comprehensive program integrate global youth consultation, targeted research, and actionable projects supporting policy implementation recommendations to transform the fashion industry.

Through connecting youth leaders, mentors, and global organizations, the program strives to amplify impactful solutions, strengthen partnerships, and shape a sustainable future.

Focus Areas

Innovation

Harnessing creativity to redefine sustainable fashion.

Waste

Combatting textile waste through circular economy solutions.

Gender Equity

Advocating for fair wages and inclusive practices.

Biodiversity

Protecting ecosystems affected by fashion’s supply chain.

York Region SDGs Program

The York Region SDGs Program is a youth-led initiative by Threading Change, giving young leaders the tools, mentorship, and resources to design projects that reduce waste, promote reuse, and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This soft launch builds on our global SDG program, but is tailored to the needs and opportunities of York Region. Over a 3-month sprint, three Youth Ambassadors will lead community-based projects tackling issues like textile waste, repair culture, and the care economy — helping to build a more circular, just fashion system.

Meet our Ambassadors!

Arushi Chopra

I am the Founder and Creative Director of Studio Dialectica, a fashion brand rooted in sustainability, community, and education.
Over the past 2 years, I’ve built a platform that not only creates up-cycled clothing with care for people and the planet but also teaches others how to engage with clothing in a responsible, circular way. Through workshops, events, and direct engagement, I’ve seen firsthand how knowledge, tools, and access can empower individuals to reduce waste and rethink consumption.
Through the SDGs program, Arushi ran hands-on sessions teaching York Region residents basic sewing, repair, and reuse skills to extend the life of their clothing.
Brenda Silbergleit

I’ve always loved fashion, but my relationship with it has evolved over time. What began as a love for finding my unique style through thrifting grew into a deeper curiosity about how our clothing is made and what it costs, not just in dollars but in environmental and human terms. I’ve collected vintage pieces that have lasted for decades while newer garments fall apart within years, a difference that speaks volumes about how production standards and our care practices have shifted.
Beyond the quality of materials, I’ve become increasingly aware of the global inequalities that underpin our consumption culture. The way we buy, use, and discard clothing is connected to systems that exploit people and resources elsewhere. Understanding this has made me want to be part of reimagining fashion as something that values longevity, fairness, and sustainability.
I believe lasting change must start by connecting with people — understanding our communities is the first step to creating an effective understanding of both the problem and the possibilities for action.
Through the SDGs program, Brenda led educational workshops and created digital content to help residents identify quality garments, understand true production costs, and value long-lasting clothing.
Ruqayya Mulla

I have an initiative that I cofounded called "Muslims for Earth" aimed towards the Muslim community to increase eco-consciousness. I aim to further the mission of Muslims for Earth, and I always look for opportunities for mentorship and growth.
Through the SDGs program, Ruqayya has led a culturally inclusive swap event and embroidery workshop for Muslim women in York Region, fostering reuse and awareness of sustainable clothing options.