lafs
Globally Uniting LatinAmerica
OUR MISSION
Globally Uniting Latin America
Founded by visionary Latina entrepreneurs
this groundbreaking platform is revolutionizing the Latin American fashion and design industries—making them more influential than ever. What started as an annual conference has evolved into a dynamic global movement, filling a critical gap in a region gaining unstoppable international momentum.
LAFS is more than an event; it’s a community where opportunities are created, connections are forged, and where Latin America takes center stage.
LAFS ECOSYSTEM
LAFS ECOSYSTEM
LAFS ECOSYSTEM
Summits
LAFS
experiences
Pitch to LAFS
LAFS pop-up
LAFS media
ABOUT US
ESTEFANIA LACAYO
Born in Nicaragua and based in Miami, Estefanía Lacayo has over eighteen years of experience in the editorial, retail and digital fronts of the fashion industry. A strong advocate for social impact and development in the region, she joined forces with like-minded Mexican co-founder, Samantha Tams,
SAMANTHA TAMS
An expert in the retail sector who worked as a senior buyer for Saks Fifth Avenue and specialty stores, thus becoming a fashion consultant and brand strategist.
Together, they are committed to developing the most important fashion platform in Latin America and proudly share the region’s greatness with the rest of the world.
Samantha Tams – Visionary Leader in Latin American Fashion & Business Strategy
With a background in diplomacy and a sharp business acumen, Samantha Tams forged her path in the fashion industry as a buyer for Saks Fifth Avenue Mexico City, where she spent seven years shaping the country’s luxury market. Her strategic vision not only introduced global luxury brands to Mexico but also elevated local talent onto an international stage.
Proudly Mexican but a global citizen at heart, Samantha has worked across multiple international markets, gaining invaluable expertise as a fashion consultant and strategist for both emerging and established brands. Her market insights and ability to anticipate industry shifts have made her one of the most influential voices in Latin American fashion, with designers and regional talent looking to her as a trusted authority before expanding onto the global stage.
As co-founder of LAFS, Samantha has been instrumental in the platform’s expansion, leveraging her expertise in commercial negotiations and strategic partnerships to position LAFS as the leading force in Latin American fashion. Her ability to drive business operations, forge high-impact collaborations, and secure alliances has fueled the platform’s continued growth and influence.
A visionary leader and industry disruptor, Samantha remains at the forefront of shaping the future of Latin American fashion.
Estefanía Lacayo – Trailblazer in Latin American Fashion & Community Building.
Estefanía Lacayo is a visionary entrepreneur, a creative powerhouse brimming with ideas, and a strategic leader with an invaluable network. She is committed to promoting inclusivity, defending human rights, and empowering minorities, tirelessly building strong, borderless communities driven by her values.
Her career began at Vogue US, followed by 20 years in New York’s competitive fashion industry, where she honed her expertise in brand positioning, content strategy, and business development. In 2010, she launched Edition01, an innovative luxury e-commerce platform specializing in exclusive collaborations with global brands, designers, and creatives—including Harper’s Bazaar, Goop, CFDA, and Vera Wang.
A Nicaraguan native with a global perspective, Estefanía is deeply committed to social impact and advocacy. She serves on the committee of Glasswing International, leading its annual gala in Manhattan, and is a dedicated member of the Freedom Council, supporting the fight against human trafficking.
Her unwavering dedication to innovation, advocacy, and community-building has positioned her as a leading force in Latin American fashion, inspiring a new generation of creatives and entrepreneurs worldwide.
