Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to adverse impacts on Asia and the Pacific’s 35 million women garment workers. With COVID-19, persisting gender inequalities and an aggravating climate emergency, the garment and textiles sector have reached a pivotal crossroads. Through the entrepreneurs’ accounts, the report highlights how women’s leadership is a driver for more sustainable business practices and gender equality in the garment sector. In contrast to the mass production of textiles and garments, the profiles emphasise a pattern of women’s entrepreneurship dedicated to circular economy business models that are kinder to people and the planet. The report highlights the importance of looking at alternative leadership styles in Asia’s garment sector for a more inclusive and resilient industry.