YAZ: Step Up and Go Beyond Design Competition

published Apr 30, 2008
ends Jun 30, 2008
YAZ Step Up and Go Beyond Design Competition
Nina Garcia of the Emmy-nominated series "Project Runway" is calling upon designer hopefuls everywhere to submit contemporary and fashionable packaging concepts for the oral contraceptive YAZ.

In partnership with Step Up Women's Network, a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to mentoring and empowering young women for advancement, and Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Garcia announced today the launch of the "YAZ: Step Up and Go Beyond" contest.

The grand prize winner will receive $10,000 to help jumpstart a career in design.

"Whether you are an aspiring designer, graphic artist or simply the office fashionista with a flair for what's chic, now is the chance to put your talent to the test and turn your visions into reality," said Nina Garcia.

Like many young women, Garcia dreamed of being in the fashion industry.

She started her career working in the public relations department for Perry Ellis and its then head designer, Marc Jacobs.

She then moved to Mirabella magazine and later to Elle, gradually rising up the ranks, and today, she is one of the world's foremost fashion trendsetters.

"The design challenge we're posing is a fashion transformation unlike any other," said Garcia.

"We're taking an iconic accessory -- the birth control case -- and asking aspiring designers to take a shot at redesigning it into a chic, more sophisticated carrying case that they could slip into their purses."