In 2025, the “Look into the Future” contest will, for the first time, host a residency for its semi-finalists, curated by renowned Ukrainian designer Ivan Frolov, who began his journey in the industry by winning the competition in 2013.

The residency will take place in Kyiv from May 29 to June 2, providing a unique blend of educational and cultural experiences for the semi-finalists of the “Look into the Future. Khanenko Museum Collection” contest.

The program combines professional insights with cultural immersion, connecting participants with prominent Ukrainian fashion brands such as Ruslan Baginskiy, the COAT by Katya Silchenko, and the GUNIA Project. Contestants will collaborate with fashion stylists and experts from the Khanenko Museum.

While enthralled with Ukraine’s rich cultural legacy — from the architectural majesty of St. Sophia of Kyiv to contemporary theatre — the young designers will draw inspiration to fuel their creative work. They will attend a performance of Ivan Karpenko-Kary’s “Beztalanna” (The Ill-Fated), directed by Ivan Uryvskyi at the Ivan Franko National Theater, and visit the museum-workshop of renowned monumental artists Ada Rybachuk and Volodymyr Melnychenko (ARVM).

As part of a special event at the Sophia Kyivs’ka National Reserve, contestants will follow Natalia Kryvda — Dr. (PhD), Professor, Department of Ukrainian Philosophy and Culture, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv — as she delivers an original lecture tracing the roots of Ukrainian cultural identity.

The principal partners of the 26th edition of the contest are Visa and PrivatBank, which support the initiative through their Financial Fashion — We Create Financial Fashion campaign. This partnership promotes entrepreneurial thinking in creative industries and supports the next generation of designers.

For over 25 years, the “Look into the Future” contest has served as a launchpad for emerging talents in the fashion industry. The introduction of the residency marks a new chapter in the contest’s mission to offer systematic support for the young designers shaping the future of Ukrainian fashion.

The partner hotel of the “Look into the Future” 2025 residence is ibis Kyiv City Center.