London-based designer wins Visa's 'Recycle the Runway' competition

Fashion Network

28-05-2025

London-based Peruvian fashion designer Genaro Rivas has been crowned overall winner of 'Recycle the Runway', a new initiative from Visa.
The award comes with a share of the £20,000 prize fund and ongoing mentorship from leading industry experts.
The initiative is part of the payments giant's 'Young Creators' series spotlighting the next generation of circular fashion talent in the UK.
Unveiled at an immersive showcase in Central London, his signature brand Genaro Rivas, which blends Peru's textile heritage with modern London design, was recognised for its 'innovative approach to circularity, ethical sourcing, and creative excellence'.
He was selected by a judging panel including representatives from London College of Fashion, British Fashion Council, Vogue Business, Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and artist Sophie Tea.
Five other winning designers, Gbadebo, Fanfare Label, Marinava, Sondor and Been, were also recognised. FingsbyFloss, who received an Honourable Mention, will also receive expert mentorship to support the development of their circular fashion business.
This year's competition attracted applicants from across the UK, "all demonstrating a strong commitment to circular fashion practices. Following a rigorous selection process, six emerging talents were chosen to bring their visions to the runway.
Tea said: 'What's so exciting about Recycle the Runway is how Genaro Rivas is blending bold self-expression with purpose-driven design. As someone who built a business through the support of digital platforms and community, I know how far the right visibility can go and I'm thrilled to be part of something that's backing the next wave of creators and entrepreneurs shaping fashion's future.'