Professor Josefita Varela is an Instructor of Fashion Design at the Gus Machado College of Business, teaching Apparel Development I–III and Fashion Styling. She holds a master’s degree in Fashion and Brand Management from Istituto Marangoni and brings more than 20 years of industry experience. As founder and designer of her long‑standing fashion brand specializing in flight‑attendant uniforms and ready‑to‑wear collections, she has showcased internationally and was named Best Upcoming Designer of the Year at Aruba Fashion Week in 2017.
Her creative focus centers on uniform design and functional fashion innovation. She is currently collaborating with students on a redesign initiative for American Airlines uniforms, a project with global visibility and real‑world impact. Inspired by her business background and Catholic‑school education, she values STU’s blend of faith and creativity. She has earned multiple honors, including the 2025 STU President’s Grant, and remains active in professional communities such as the French Venezuelan Chamber of Commerce.