From a young age, Prabal Gurung was taught the importance of taking responsibility for his actions. The lesson is so deeply engrained that he carries it into his work ethic, and it drives him to continuously give back to the world. His compassion and determination to service others helped form the Shikshya Foundation Nepal six years ago.

What role do you think the fashion industry plays in responding to global issues?

I’ve always felt a strong responsibility to use my voice to inspire conversation and provoke change. I’ve been told by some to keep quiet—that fashion and politics or fashion and social change do not mix, however I wholeheartedly disagree. As designers, we have global platforms and while this position is a gift, it is also a responsibility that cannot be neglected.

How important is it for you to incorporate giving back into your business/brand?

As a luxury brand with a soul, giving back is a core part of our brand ethos and has been since our founding.

Which causes or charities are you most passionate about?

We established the Shikshya Foundation Nepal (SFN) six years ago, so of course this foundation is very close to us. Shikshya means learning, to educate, and that is our goal—to create a critical mass of leaders who will be instrumental in turning our society into a just, equitable, secular, accountable, thinking, questioning, and progressive society. To accomplish this, we bring education to children in Nepal, so they can develop academic, social, financial and emotional confidence. We are also currently working with the ACLU and Planned Parenthood, which our fall 2017 statement tees benefit.

Who or what has inspired you to give back? 

My mother raised my siblings and me to have compassion and to take responsibility for our actions and our world, and this responsibility is very near and dear to my heart. It drives me, and it is why I do what I do.

How, if at all, has your ongoing involvement in philanthropy changed your approach to design?

Our brand commitment to social responsibility has led us to introduce sustainable sourcing and production practices into our business.

What is your most memorable philanthropic experience? 

It is hard to name just one as each experience is special and unique. It is always quite impactful to be able to return home to Nepal and visit with our SFN partner agencies to interact with the children we are helping. It is so moving to see their faces and hear their stories first-hand.

Editor’s Note: Creatives Care is an interview series on the importance of philanthropy for fashion designers.