Founder's Story

About our Founder

Mia was born in a small coastal town in the Philippines, where daily life was shaped by the ocean and a close connection to nature. Surrounded by clear waters, consistent coastal winds and a landscape rich in biodiversity, her early years were grounded in simplicity and an inherent respect for the environment.

When Mia’s parents migrated to Sydney from the Philippines in 1990, she was just 5 years old. Like most first generation migrant parents, they did not have much. As such, wastage in any shape or form was not tolerated.

A consciousness relating to sustainability, versatility and value was interwoven into Mia’s identity at an early age. This awareness deepened over time as she grew up along Australia’s coastline and later moved to Bondi Beach in 2012, where she developed a stronger connection to the ocean through surfing.

Travel across Bali, Nicaragua, Mexico, the United States and Europe further broadened her perspective. While these destinations highlighted the beauty of diverse coastlines, they also exposed the increasing impact of environmental damage. This reinforced Mia’s commitment to making more considered choices, both personally and professionally.

Mia made a personal and private commitment to reduce her consumption of animal products and fast fashion that negatively impact the environment. The defining moment came closer to home. After the birth of her daughter, Mia’s sister struggled to find swimwear that felt supportive, functional and aligned with her sense of style. She did not feel confident in her postpartum body and avoided returning to the beach.

In response, Mia designed a swimsuit for her. A piece created to support the body, adapt to change and restore confidence. What began as a solution for one woman became the foundation for a broader vision.

Despite entering a saturated swimwear market without formal training in fashion or design, Mia’s values and perspective led to the creation of an eco compatible swimwear range. Each piece is made using regenerated fabrics derived from ocean plastics and pre and post consumer waste, actively reducing landfill and marine pollution. For The Dreamers swimwear was born.

From design to delivery, every stage of the process has been considered to ensure sustainable and ethical practices. The brand partners with responsible manufacturers, utilises carbon neutral shipping and implements environmentally conscious packaging solutions.

Mia’s goal is clear. To bridge the refinement of high end fashion with the integrity of social and environmental responsibility, creating swimwear that is considered in design and accountable in impact.

Read more here about For the Dreamer's intentional and conscious design principals.