1- Can you introduce yourself and your humble beginnings please?
I’m Blanca Rigau, I’m graduated with a Degree in Biotechnology (UAB), a Master Degree in Pharmacology (UAB) and Neuropsychology (UOC) and the Fashion Direction and Execution program from Reimagine Textile TecnoCampus in Mataró. I’m a Quality technician in a pharmaceutical company, Zoetis Manufacturing and Research Spain S. L., but my two huge passions are basketball and fashion. I’m a basketball coach of an incredible team of 11-12 year old girls in Girona and Fashion Brand Manager of Xander Pratt Collection. I’m coming from a very humble and hard working family, that’s the reason why I think I always work as hard as I can in everything I take part in. No member of family is involved in fashion so when I was expressing my intention to study fashion they weren’t accepting it as I was a great science student. I followed my family advice but during my biotechnology degree studies I always had my desire and passion for fashion inside. When I met Xander in 2020 in Marrakech 2022 he guided me through the path to believe in myself and my passion, fashion. We started to work together on his brand, Xander Pratt Collection.
2- Can you tell us more about your dream to become a Fashion Brand Manager ?
For me Fashion is my passion and I love coordinating different company areas as it’s my current job position as a Senior Quality Technician, so I’m used to manage different areas and different topics at the same time.
If I can combine coordinating the different areas of a Fashion Brand, this doesn’t mean work for me it’s a dream. Personally, I think it’s very important to work on your passion as if you work on something you love and are passionate about you are not working any day of your life.
When I work in fashion, I can be from the morning until 4am up and I still have energy to create more.
3- How did you end up becoming XP Collection ‘s manager?
I remember in July 2022, I was Xander Pratt Project Manager of The African Dream theater performed for the summit of the United States African Union Congress. Days before the event, we were looking for a big helium balloon which was representing the African Dream. Our GPS brought us in front of a tailoring manufacturing Site by chance, and instead of finding a big helium balloon we found our current manufacturing site for Xander Pratt Collection, for me it was the African dream and also my dream. Since then, we started to work together on building the brand, and introducing the brand in stores in Spain. I was just following the path of the passion I have inside, and it naturally brought me to learn all the aspects and areas of the brand and become the Manager.
4-What is the cause you are fighting for and how do you do it through fashion?
I’m fighting for preventing bullying specially in early ages, as I suffered this situation when I was a kid due to my physical appearance and it creates a lot of insecurities. Taking part on the Beauty Pageant was a great opportunity to overcome all the fears and limitations I put into myself and, to inspire little girls who are suffering from this situation to move forward and believe in themselves. It was a way to transmit to all those children to not focus on negative comments and to focus their energy on having good values and cultivating their dreams because in the end they will reap their fruits, since the physical appearance always change but what does not change is the inside. Currently I’m creating Girona Delegation of the Spanish Association for Prevention of Scholar Bullying (AEPAE) and I could reunite a great team of professionals. The Association will become effective at the beginning of April 2024, and we will be able to detect cases i all schools of Girona province and help more directly the children who are suffering from this situation.
I always love to implement my values in fashion, so when I am managing a Fashion Show I love to represent inclusion, inclusion of all type of sizes, ages and races withing the luxury fashion industry, so no one could feel excluded for dressing exclusively due to their size, age or race. Last fashion shows presented in Girona (February 18th 2024) and Zaragoza (March 24th 2024) were a clear example of inclusion, as they included pieces with sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, no age limitation (we included models from 18 to 59 years old) and different races representing the reality of current society. The show had a great acceptance since everyone in the public could feel identified with at least one of the models.
5-What are the next steps for the brand?
Next steps for the brand are to consolidate current procedures, expand and position the brand worldwide, build our stores, increase sells and start including artificial intelligence. We are building a team worldwide so is important to consolidate the procedures to be aligned in different regions around the world. We are planning to create new collections and to start building our own stores, a unique and exclusive creative concept of store according to Xander Pratt style. First one will be in Philippines and hopefully Barcelona soon. We will also continue to expand the brand in Europe, Brazil, Russia and United States. We will continue to present new spring/summer collections in Spain, next fashion shows will be in Sitges the 21st of April 2024, Barcelona end of May 2024 and Málaga beginning of June 2024. Our main focus this year will also be to start creating high couture collections and once completed present it to some of the best Fashion Weeks worldwide that for me personally are Paris, Milano and New York. Finally, we will be also focusing to include artificial intelligence in our brand to add costumer experience in our stores and be able to engage interaction between clients and the store design and style. We will explore different aspects towards artificial intelligence direction as it will be the future of the industry.
6- How do you want people to see and remember you?
I would like people to see and remember me as a consistent, hard working and determined woman who always fought and never gave up to achieve her dreams despite all the difficulties and also as an inspiration and support to all the little girls who are suffering bullying to not focus on the negative comments and believe on theirselves because with passion, hard work and determination they can achieve anything they put their mind on.
7- Talk to us about the future, projects, entertainment , what are you looking forward to?
In terms of the future, I am incredibly excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. One of the main aspects I’m eagerly anticipating is the transition from my current job to fully dedicating myself as a fashion brand manager. It’s not just a career path for me; it’s my passion, something that resonates deeply within me. Being able to immerse myself completely in this role will allow me to channel my creativity, strategic thinking, and drive to make a significant impact in the field.
Also, as an aspiring contestant in the upcoming Mrs. Catalunya+30 2024 and Mrs. Spain+30 2024 beauty pageants, I am excited to announce my intention to participate in various publicity campaigns and events to expand and strengthen my public image. These opportunities will not only allow me to showcase my talents and beauty on a larger platform but also provide me with a chance to engage with a wider audience and connect with individuals from diverse walks of life. Participating in beauty pageants is more than just about looking good on stage; it is about using one’s influence and platform to advocate for important causes and make a positive impact on society. By involving myself in publicity campaigns, I hope to shed light on issues that are close to my heart, such as promoting women’s empowerment, advocating for mental health awareness, and supporting children who are suffering from bullying. I am fully committed to utilizing my newfound public figure to inspire others, and I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in terms of collaborating with brands, charities, and like-minded individuals. I am eager to embrace this journey of growth and self-discovery, and I am determined to make a lasting impression in the world of beauty pageantry.
Additionally, I’m focused on consolidating my efforts to create Girona scholar bullying prevention association. My goal is to expand its reach and effectiveness, particularly in schools across Girona province. Bullying is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals, and I’m committed to implement comprehensive strategies and support systems to address it effectively. I believe that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment to learn and grow, free from the fear of bullying. Moreover, I aspire to make a social impact on a global scale with innovative techniques and programs aimed at combating bullying. By collaborating with experts, educators, and community leaders, I aim to develop initiatives that not only raise awareness but also foster empathy, resilience, and inclusivity among young people worldwide.
In essence, I am looking forward to a future where I can fully pursue my passions, contribute positively to society, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, both locally and internationally. I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received thus far, and I am excited to see where this journey takes me. I am confident that through hard work, dedication, and a passion for making a difference, I can achieve my goals and leave a positive impact on those around me. Thank you for joining me on this exciting ride, and I look forward to sharing my experiences with all of you.
9- Could you tell us about your purpose?
My purpose is to inspire women to have confidence in themselves despite the opposition and prejudices they may face. Through fashion and the representation of strong, confident individuals who have overcome obstacles and succeeded, I aim to demonstrate that it is possible to achieve your dreams regardless of constant opinions and criticism. I want to foster resilience and determination especially in women, reminding that everyone have the power to defy expectations and achieve success. By spreading inspirational stories and creating empowerment pieces, I seek to create a community where all individuals feel supported, included, and capable of pursuing their goals. Thus, I aim to contribute to a paradigm shift that values and celebrates diversity. Ultimately, my purpose is to inspire everyone to embrace their inner strength and grow despite any resistance.
10- Any last word for your lovers via our magazine
Just believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to break the chains you once put on yourself, leap towards your dreams because with consistency, hard work and determination they will become true. It’s time for every woman crown their selves and walk as Queens. Always remember your worth and inner strength. Don’t let anything or anyone make you doubt your ability to achieve everything you desire. Your potential is infinite, and you just have to believe in it wholeheartedly. Lift your head with confidence and step into your future with courage and determination. The world is waiting to see you shine, so don’t be afraid to do so. Your determination is your greatest asset, and with it, you can conquer all your dreams. May your light always shine brightly.”