Profile: Altynai Sawada – Real Leather Design Competitions

Altynai Sawada

ESMOD Group

I was born in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and spent my school years in the quiet rural town of Naryn. Growing up in such an isolated environment, surrounded by few people, often left me feeling disconnected and out of place. This sense of alienation ignited a deep search for meaning and my place in the world. Over time, instead of endlessly searching for a space where I fit, I could create a space that reflects my inner world and celebrates individuality. This realization became my driving force, fueling my passion for creativity and self-expression. Through my work, I aim to build a community rooted in genderlessness, inspired by the rebellious energy of the punk subculture and centered on the transformative power of self-love. It’s a space where like-minded individuals can be unapologetically themselves, breaking boundaries and embracing their bold freedom. This journey has taught me that true belonging begins within—when we dare to be authentic, we not only find our place but inspire others to do the same. My designs are a reflection of this philosophy: a celebration of the unique, the fearless, and the untamed. Creating this world is a spiritual process; parts of my soul are embedded into my works.

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Dressed To Kill

Category: Apparel

Competitions: International

I was born in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and raised in the quiet town of Naryn. As a child, I often felt like an outsider within my society, my country, and later, as an immigrant in Japan. For years, I saw this as something wrong with me. But over time, I stopped trying to fit in and chose instead to create spaces where I could fully exist. My work is a rebellion against conformity and a celebration of self-acceptance. It draws from punk's raw energy and the mystical, empowering essence of witchcraft, both of which resonate with the spirit of those who live outside the norm. The spikes, the silhouettes, the symbols—they’re not just design elements, but tools of transformation and protection. They represent both power and vulnerability. Each piece becomes a form of armor—a declaration of identity. My designs are bold, unapologetic, and deliberately diverse, reflecting the complexity of being different in a world that often demands sameness. This collection is not just about fashion—it’s a personal and spiritual journey. It’s for the outsiders, the misunderstood, and those still searching for where they belong. You don’t have to fit in—you were made to stand out.