Last month, ETAs Emiko Wu and Jasmine Coley hosted a local fashion show in Kendari, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding region. This event highlighted the traditional fashion of four prominent local tribes: the Tolaki, Muna, Buton, and Bombana. In collaboration with Muhammadiyah University Kendari, the show brought together students from each community to share and represent their cultural backgrounds.

Dressed in traditional formal attire, the students walked down the runway to the sound of local music and enthusiastic cheers from the audience, which included other university students and senior high students from Emiko and Jasmine’s respective schools.

Each outfit showcased distinctive fabrics, patterns, and motifs. Following the fashion show, participants from each tribe delivered short presentations in English, explaining the significance behind their clothing and answering questions from the audience.

Emiko and Jasmine, alongside international students studying abroad in Kendari, also joined in the celebration by walking down the runway in custom-made outfits designed by a local Kendari fashion designer! The event concluded with a selection of local snacks and a lively photo session.

Kendari Couture was a memorable day of cross-cultural exchange that deepened Emiko’s appreciation for Southeast Sulawesi’s rich cultural diversity.

Emiko Wu is currently teaching at MAN Insan Cendekia Kota Kendari, Sulawesi Tenggara.