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DHL Express Ireland presents the Innovation Award at the Junk Kouture World Final 2024

2 min read
Winner of the Innovation Award – Natural Allure, proudly presented by Niamh Tighe, Brand, Communications & Marketing Manager, DHL Express Ireland

As a company that thrives on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. DHL Express Ireland was proud to play a key role as the Official Logistics Partner of the Junk Kouture World Final 2024. Held at The Helix Theatre in Dublin on the 4th of February 2025, this year’s event brought together 144 talented school teens from across the world each showcasing extraordinary designs made from recycled materials.

Junk Kouture is not just a fashion competition – it is a global movement that empowers young designers to think differently about waste, sustainability, and innovation. At DHL Express Ireland we understand the importance of improving our processes to create a greener future, making this partnership a natural fit.

The designs on stage reflected more than just creativity they told stories of cultural identity, social change, and environmental responsibility. From raising awareness about gender equality to exploring the impact of social media, every creation had a powerful message behind it – showcasing how fashion can be a force for positive change.

Innovation Takes Centre Stage: The Story of Natural Allure

As part of our commitment to driving innovation, DHL Express Ireland was honoured to present The Innovation Award, which recognises the design that best embodies creativity, originality, and forward-thinking sustainability.

This year’s winner of The Innovation Award went to the stunning Natural Allure which was presented by Niamh Tighe, Brand, Communications & Marketing Manager at DHL Express Ireland.

A breathtaking creation by a student from Colaiste Bride, Wexford. Crafted from the bark of the Ugandan Mutuba tree – a natural and sustainable fabric used in African textile traditions; Natural Allure was adorned with 2,500 hand quilled beads made from old books. The level of craftsmanship, cultural significance, and sustainability behind the design made Natural Allure a deserving winner! 

Before winning on the world stage, Natural Allure was one of ten teams of the Dublin city final at the RDS last October securing a spot in the Junk Kouture World Final. This journey from national recognition to world stage success highlights the talent, dedication, and creativity of young designers leading the way in sustainable fashion.

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DHL Express Ireland and Junk Kouture: Partnering for a Sustainable Future

Sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. Just as Junk Kouture challenges young designers to rethink waste and redefine fashion, we are constantly working towards more sustainable logistics solutions from reducing our carbon footprint to pioneering greener transportation options.

Supporting events like Junk Kouture aligns with our mission to connect people and improve lives, empowering young talent to push boundaries, embrace sustainability, and share their creativity on a global platform.

We extend our congratulations to the Natural Allure team, the World Designer of the Year team and all the incredible participants who took part in the Junk Kouture World Final 2024. Your vision and innovation are shaping the future of sustainable fashion, and DHL Express Ireland is proud to support your journey!

Here’s to a future where fashion, logistics, and sustainability work together to create a brighter, greener world!  

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Celebrating Talent with The Paddy Box

In addition to the awards presented on the night, winners were also treated to a special gift from The Paddy Box, a company dedicated to connecting people around the world to Ireland.

The Paddy Box allows customers to create and ship a box of Irishness anywhere in the world, spreading joy and nostalgia through carefully curated Irish treats and products. Their generous contribution added an extra touch of celebration, ensuring that Junk Kouture winners received a memorable piece of Ireland to mark their incredible achievements.