Nepali-born British designer Sanyukta Shrestha, shortlisted for Female Founder of the Year at the 2027 Future Icons Awards
Nepali-born British designer Sanyukta Shrestha has been shortlisted for Female Founder of the Year at the 2027 Future Icons Awards. The recognition brings attention to her London-based fashion business and its work with Nepali artisans, sustainable bridalwear and traditional craftsmanship.
Presented by Country & Town House, the awards celebrate businesses and individuals working towards positive social and environmental change. The ceremony for the 2027 edition is scheduled for 16 November 2026.
For Shrestha, the announcement connects two parts of her career: building a luxury fashion label in Britain and maintaining close ties with the women and craft traditions of Nepal.
Her team traces her fashion journey to an early Best Designer Award at the age of 17. She went on to introduce her sustainable luxury bridalwear brand in the UK in 2011, placing ethical production and environmentally conscious materials at the centre of her work.
Through her namesake label, Shrestha combines contemporary bridal design with Nepali craftsmanship. Her collections explore plant-based fibres, traditional techniques and ways to reduce waste, while her relationships with artisans remain an important part of the business.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition,” Shrestha said in the announcement.
“For me, sustainability has always meant more than how we create fashion; it is about preserving our heritage, valuing the hands behind our craft and creating opportunities for a better future.”
She also spoke about working with Nepali women, including survivors of trafficking who are rebuilding their lives through traditional skills. She described craft as a way to support confidence, independence and opportunities for their families.
“Seeing their pride, resilience and smiles is one of the greatest rewards of my work.”
That connection gives the shortlist announcement a significance beyond the London fashion scene. Shrestha’s approach brings Nepali skills into the production of contemporary luxury clothing, linking the finished design with the people who help create it.
Sanyukta Shrestha is globally recognized for pioneering sustainable luxury bridal couture, earning international awards, fashion museum recognition, and global celebrity acclaim.
The designer’s previous recognition includes the Luxury Award at PETA’s 2021 Vegan Wedding Awards. PETA highlighted her use of vegan fabrics in gowns and other designs, including bamboo.
Her brand also won Wedding Boutique of the Year at the London Wedding Awards in 2026, adding to its recognition within the British bridal industry.
The Future Icons shortlist now places the focus on Shrestha’s role as a founder. Her announcement highlights a business shaped by design, heritage and long-standing artisan relationships, with Nepal continuing to influence both its creative direction and its values.
The winners will be announced at the forthcoming ceremony.
