SoFA Design Institute is the Philippines’ first specialized design college. Inaugurated in 2007 as the School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA), the college quickly developed street-credibility as the country's go-to school for design education.
In 2010, it expanded its range of academic programs to include Interior Design. It has, since then, flourished as an institution with a rigorous, design-focused approach to education promoting creativity, technical proficiency, and business acumen.
SoFA Design Institute graduates are trained to be Design Leaders and industry-ready professionals who are experts in translating design concepts into pragmatic solutions.
Aside from being dedicated to shaping the new breed of design professionals, the college is also committed to promoting design as a positive force in the society, economy, and the lives of its students.
Vision
To develop passionate visionaries who will shape & lead the world of design.
Mission
To deliver a rigorous, design-focused educational experience promoting creativity, technical proficiency, & business acumen.
Co-Founders & Executive Directors
Amina Aranaz-Alunan
- Istituto Marangoni Cum Laude Graduate, Masters of Fashion Accessory Design
- Creative Director, ARANAZ
Amina Aranaz-Alunan is one of the country's most recognized accessory designers and the founder of Manila's first specialized fashion and design college, SoFA Design Institute (formerly School of Fashion and the Arts). She is a fixture in Manila's creative
scene, and has also been proclaimed as one of Manila's notable designers and change-makers by various publications, newspapers, and television shows. Her creations under the label ARANAZ are currently available in over seven countries including prestigious
luxury online retailer, Moda Operandi. Her roster of clients include members of the European royal court such as the Queen of Belgium and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands. They have also been featured in top US publications including Harper's Bazaar, InStyle,
and Womens Wear Daily.
Loralee Baron-Soong
- Istituto Marangoni Summa Cum Laude Graduate, Masters in Fashion Brand Management
- Former Associate Brand Manager/Buyer, Rustan's
Loralee Baron-Soong is one of the co-founders and Managing Director of Manila’s first specialized fashion and design college, SoFA Design Institute (formerly School of Fashion and the Arts). She graduated Summa Cum Laude in Masters in Fashion Brand Management
from Istituto Marangoni. She was also the Brand Manager and Buyer for luxury brands that include Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, Givenchy among others under the Rustan's Group of Companies.