ReGo – Case Study

In this report, project ReGo is used as a case study to exemplify practice research in social design being undertaken at UAL and articulate its contribution to both real-world challenges and academic research. ReGo is a practice research project led by Dr Francesco Mazzarella (Centre for Sustainable Fashion, UAL) which leverages the power of fashion activism, social design, and storytelling. ‘ReGo’ means to rethink our ego and go again and again through a continuous process of change both in oneself and in society. The aim of the project is to shift the prevailing narratives around youth violence and respond positively to this systemic problem by providing educational and employment opportunities for young people in fashion. Working with communities and industry partners in East London, including Catalyst for Communities, and funded by Foundation for Future London, ReGo co-created knowledge as well as products with young people, and provided opportunities for the young people involved to gain new skills and build employability. In doing so, it expands the idea of what fashion is and can do to address social justice and nurture sustainability and prosperity for all.