Last Saturday, I was fortunate to attend the community launch of my friend Unyx Sta. Ana’s co-creation lab Zapateria. It is located in the heart of Marikina. Her dad, Rico Sta. Ana, is one of the city’s distinguished shoe designers. Here, he is shown cutting the ribbon and formally opening this wonderful space for makers.
Unyx was a grade school friend, so naturally I was able to reunite with ladies from my Miriam College Grade School life. Here, I am with Erika Bolante, the interior designer of Zapateria.
Erika designed the space, including this shoe chandelier.
It was a fine touch to showcase local leather...
...And to showcase shoe designs from the 80’s and 90’s.
I also caught up with Anj, another grade school friend. We share the same birthday and we were born at the same hospital!
Various aspects of shoemaking, as well as sample shoe designs, adorn the space.
My friends and I proceeded to eat lunch. The bacon-wrapped bananas were so good!
Also met up with Gianina and her husband Carlo.
It was also thrilling to get a photograph with Ms. Charo Santos-Concio, who happens to be related to Unyx.
Finally, a photo with Unyx and the rest of my grade school girls!
I had an amazing afternoon! It was great to see my friends again and of course, it was fulfilling to see Unyx and her dad open a promising co-creation space for the Marikina shoemaking industry.
Congratulations Unyx and Zapateria!