From Fashion to Parliament: Cultural Leaders Gather at Westminster to Confront Violence, Responsibility and the Future of the Creative Industries

House of Commons, Westminster — Tuesday 2 June 2026

PRESS OFFICE

The setting was one of Britain's most historic institutions.

The subject matter, however, was firmly rooted in the challenges of the modern world.

On Tuesday evening, the House of Commons welcomed an international gathering of journalists, artists, entrepreneurs, diplomats, healthcare professionals, campaigners, technology innovators, and cultural leaders for the Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion & Sports Assembly 2026.

While the Assembly recognised distinguished achievements across fashion, media, healthcare, business, diplomacy, and the arts, the evening focused equally on a more pressing question: how can creative industries become safer, healthier, and more accountable environments for those working within them?

Hosted by Alex Davies-Jones MP, Member of Parliament for Pontyprid and Rebeca Riofrio, Chairwoman of the Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion & Sports, the event highlighted concerns surrounding bullying, harassment, violence, exploitation, mental health, addiction, online abuse, and the responsibilities that accompany influence in an increasingly digital age.

The keynote address was delivered by Alex Davies-Jones MP, Member of Parliament for Pontypridd and former Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Victims.

Recognised across Westminster for her work on victim protection, safeguarding, and Violence Against Women and Girls, Davies-Jones delivered one of the evening's most compelling speeches, addressing the growing dangers posed by online misogyny, cyber abuse, deepfakes, and digital exploitation.

Her remarks resonated strongly with an audience that included professionals from industries where visibility often comes hand in hand with vulnerability.

The discussion continued beyond the keynote.

In one of the Assembly's most engaging moments, guests were invited to participate in an open-floor conversation led by Riofrio.

Attendees were asked a simple yet thought-provoking question:

"What would you do differently within your own circle of influence to improve conditions for artists, creatives, and young people entering the industry?"

What followed was a series of thoughtful contributions and personal testimonies.

Healthcare leaders, entrepreneurs, journalists, diplomats, creatives, and campaigners shared experiences from their own sectors, discussing everything from safeguarding young talent and improving workplace culture to addressing mental health, exploitation, and inequality.

The result was less a formal debate and more a collective conversation about responsibility.

Throughout the evening, honourees addressed the Assembly with conviction, sincerity, and generosity of spirit. Although their professional backgrounds differed considerably, a common message emerged from their speeches: influence carries responsibility, and success is most meaningful when used in service of others.

Among the most celebrated recipients was Suzy Menkes OBE, one of the world's most respected fashion journalists and critics. A Cambridge graduate and former Fashion Editor of the International Herald Tribune, Menkes received the Medal of Honour for Lifetime Achievement in Fashion Journalism and Cultural Leadership in recognition of a career that has shaped global conversations around fashion, luxury, creativity, and culture.

The Assembly also honoured Andrea Thompson, the award-winning former Editor-in-Chief of Marie Claire UK, and Denise Parkinson, Senior International Business Editor at Variety.

Both received the Medal of Honour for Excellence in Global Communication for their contributions to journalism, editorial leadership, and responsible storytelling.

Fashion entrepreneur David Ben David, founder and Chief Executive of Sprayground, was awarded the Medal of Honour in Global Fashion Excellence. The Bronx-born designer transformed a simple backpack concept into a globally recognised fashion brand now operating in more than ninety countries, combining fashion, art, and self-expression.

Mental health and welfare advocacy were recognised through Rhea Maria Elliott, PTSD therapist, child psychologist, counsellor, and founder of Healing the Wounded Child. Elliott received the Medal of Honour for Welfare Advocacy for her work supporting trauma survivors, vulnerable children, and emotional recovery.

Environmental concerns featured prominently through the recognition of artist and environmental advocate Natalia Kapchuk, recipient of the Medal of Honour for Eco-Artistic Leadership. Through exhibitions and mixed-media works exploring biodiversity, marine ecosystems, and sustainability, Kapchuk has become a prominent voice for ecological awareness within contemporary art.

International cooperation and social impact were represented by Dr Patricia Caiza, corporate lawyer, international trade strategist, and founder of Eurolatin Strategy Consulting & Trade Ltd. She received the Medal of Excellence for Community Advancement for strengthening economic, educational, and humanitarian ties between Latin America, Europe, and the United Kingdom.

Entrepreneurship was celebrated through Karina Dubina, founder of Backstage Salon, who received the Medal of Honour for Inspirational Leadership and Social Impact. Her innovative approach to beauty and wellness has helped establish Backstage as a recognised name within the international beauty sector.

Fashion policy specialist Tamara Cincik, Founder and Chief Executive of Fashion Roundtable, received the Medal of Honour for Sustainability and Cultural Advancement. Through her work connecting government, sustainability, policy, and the creative industries, she has become one of the leading voices shaping the future of British fashion.

Healthcare innovation was represented by Dr Rhona Eskander, Chief Executive of Chelsea Dental Clinic and Co-Founder of PÄRLA. Recognised with the Medal of Honour for Contributions to Medicine and Community Welfare, Eskander has combined healthcare, entrepreneurship, and sustainability while becoming one of Britain's most recognised dental professionals.

Model, author, and body positivity advocate Charli Howard received the Medal of Honour for Transformative Advocacy for Women. Through her writing, public speaking, and campaigning, Howard has challenged outdated beauty standards while promoting greater representation and self-acceptance within fashion and media.

Writer, poet, philanthropist, and media personality Evgeni Constantine Minchev was honoured with the Medal of Honour for International Contribution to the Arts in recognition of a career spanning literature, journalism, culture, and charitable work across Europe and beyond.

Diplomatic excellence was recognised through Ambassador Anna Irene Delgado, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Panama to the Organization of American States. Delgado received the Medal of Excellence for her distinguished contribution to international diplomacy, governance, and multilateral cooperation.

Guests Speakers:

The Assembly also featured contributions from Leanne Elliott Young, award-winning technology entrepreneur and Co-Founder of the Institute of Digital Fashion, whose work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, digital identity, immersive technologies, and future commerce. Named the Number One Woman in Web3 Europe, she shared insights into the opportunities and responsibilities emerging from technological innovation.

Additional contributions came from Holly Scarfone, digital creator, entrepreneur, and advocate for female empowerment.

Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, actress, television personality, and entrepreneur; and Bryan Gomez, social and content architect, media personality, and human rights advocate.

Further honours were presented to Kyle de Volle, Aiden London, and Alexei Bezrukov, recipients of the Cultural Influence Medal, while Kam Murali received the Medal of Excellence for Services to the Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion & Sports.

As the formal proceedings concluded and guests continued their conversations beneath the historic surroundings of Westminster, one message remained clear.

The Assembly was not simply about recognising achievement.

It was about recognising responsibility.

At a time when creative industries continue to influence millions of lives around the world, those gathered at Parliament offered a collective reminder that culture is most powerful when it serves not only success, but society itself.

For more information parliament@parliamentarysociety.com