In 1997 Huichol Indian beadwork rose to stardom in the world of high fashion, and simultaneously helped change the destiny of the endangered Huichol indigenous culture. This occurred when anthropologist/jewelry designer Susana Valadez, the founder and director of the non-profit foundation the Huichol Center for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts, joined resources with Janet Goldman of Fragments, to create a bridge between the fashion world of Manhattan and the deep canyons of Mexico.

5 Things You Need to Know:

1. Guilty pleasure? Blue corn tortillas
2. The one fashion item I can't live without is... My long, beautiful beaded earrings
3. Ultimate celebrity dinner date, dead or alive? The late Frida Kahlo, Mexican painter
4. Motto Don't give a hungry person a fish, rather, teach them how to fish.
5. Favorite place to find inspiration The ocean bay of Sayulita, Nayarit Mexico