In the wake of the current pandemic, there have been inspiring stories of people going above and beyond to help others. This story of LCV Fashion student and instructor who joined forces to launch Fashion2Protect, a project to make face masks for those in need, is one of them.

LaSalle College Vancouver current Fashion Design student Elie Jesmani had originally planned to spend this month finishing her collection to showcase at the runway of Vancouver Fashion Week. Instead, she found herself with very different plans.

Prior to studying Fashion Design, Elie had earned a Master’s in Biology, and now she saw the need to combine her two passions - science and fashion - to join the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

During her own self-isolation, Elie decided to combine her two fields of study and create face masks to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. In consultation and collaboration with Fashion Design faculty Nargas Khabazha, Elie began the research on how to properly create face masks with what she had at home and some materials purchased online.

Elie’s brother is a doctor and he advised them on the proper material requirements, including the type of cotton and using washable fabric. While not industry regulated, the masks were made to assist with the shortage of personal protective equipment.

Protective masks made by Elie Jesmani, Fashion Design student at LaSalle College Vancouver.

Elie was determined to create face masks for those most vulnerable living in the Vancouver Downtown lower east side, our city’s most impoverished neighborhood. After contacting the City of Vancouver to get an accurate count on the people who live in that area on the streets, she established a goal of 614 masks.

Over the course of March, Elie and Nargas joint forces and were able to reach their production goal. This week they delivered over 600 masks to those in need, while wearing masks, gloves and keeping their social distance.

Many of these people who they delivered to shared their life stories with Elie and Nargas, and showed much appreciation and kindness for their actions. Now 'Fashion2Protect' project continues, and they are making masks to send to local hospitals and others in need.

LaSalle College Vancouver commends Elie and Nargas for their commitment to caring for our community!