Franca Sozzani's lack of tact in certain social issues (or her brazen, 'no-bullshit' vocalizations, depending on your opinions of her), have gotten her in hot water in the fashion community a few times. Most recently, Sozzani urged LVMH to hire back John Galliano despite his racist, anti-Semitic tirade. For an Editor-in-Chief so controversial, it came as a surprise that Fashion 4 Development, a partner of the United Nations, named Sozzani the first Goodwill Ambassador. The program will endeavor "to implement creative strategies for sustainable economic growth and autonomy through diplomacy, business, media, and the creative industries" and will use fashion to spur economic growth in developing nations. Said Evie Evangelou, the co-founder of the World Fashion Development Programme and Fashion 4 Development, "Franca Sozzani is a perfect choice to lead our mission as goodwill ambassador. Her professional career as well as her philanthropic efforts are truly an inspiration that will garner the support of fashion elite worldwide." Here's hoping she leaves her 'slave earrings' at home. (WWD)
