Meet the Founder

Geetha Kapahi always wanted to design dresses but never had a reason  behind the want. She consistently had great jobs in IT and she continued to do that for years. But one day, during service at Crossroads Community Church in Cincinnati, Ohio, Geetha heard about different organizations that were helping rescued women who were in sex slavery all around the world. 

One of these countries was India, a place close to Geetha's heart. Coming from an Indian background, she understood that there were certain cultural roadblocks that prevented giving grace and forgiveness. This in turn hinders rescued women from integrating back into society due to being labeled untouchable. Instead of being chained to something unpleasant, Geetha was inspired to tie these women to something beautiful.

After discussions with organizations like Polished Pearl and Freeset, Geetha soon had a cause behind her desire to design. Then GKM Design was born. 

Geetha now creates dresses inspired by traditional Indian clothing that are light and easy to wear. These dresses are handmade, with fabric coming either from Asia or Europe and 10% of proceeds go to help rescued women in India.

Wanting to do more, Geetha decided to start her own 501 (c)(3) nonprofit called Fashion for Freedom which focuses on bringing awareness to the human trafficking not only abroad but locally. The goal is to start a production company in Cincinnati and employ local survivors or women who are at risk of being a victim of human trafficking. In addition, Fashion for Freedom will focus on after care services for those impacted. 

GKM Design and Fashion for Freedom want to give agency and beauty to women who have been told that they are worthless.