In the mid 1990s, a new wave of designers in Latin America began expressing their cultural identity through their products. Concepts like sustainability and social design were gaining traction. The hOLAnDA 2003 and hOLAnDA 2005 exhibitions in Amsterdam provided a platform for these emerging designers to showcase their work. Through the Latin American Design Foundation (LADF), we aimed to support them by creating a space and audience for their projects.

These exhibitions featured over 150 design products and projects, receiving positive feedback from both the public and the designers. To further support Latin American talent, we opened a design shop called Otro Diseño. For two years, we imported various design products, including fashion items, tableware, and furniture.

However, we encountered significant challenges with complex and costly import logistics. Many products were niche and handcrafted, making the business difficult to sustain. Despite participating in various design exhibitions, we decided to close the shop.

Today, I'm happy to see more Latin American designers embracing local knowledge, materials, and sustainable production processes. There is growing appreciation and interest in these unique products.