Donna Karan is an American fashion design and the creator of the Donna Karan New York and DKNY clothing labels. One of the most influential fashion designers in the world, Donna Karan has left a lasting impact on the world of clothing.

Over the years Karan has been the recipient of numerous awards and honours. In 2003 she became the first American to ever receive Fashion Group International's "Superstar Award." The following year, she received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

Karan’s experiences caring for her late husband led her to create the Urban Zen Foundation, opening up avenues to support people suffering from illnesses both physically and emotionally, complementing their medical treatments and easing their suffering. Urban Zen has allowed Karan to focus on making mindful impact with consumers and craftsmen, doctors and patients, and the global community as a whole.

The organization has since developed to help empower children and preserve cultures around the world. Karen's work through her foundation has been particularly recognised for its help and relief efforts in Haiti – which was hit by an earthquake and tsunami in 2010 – and in 2012 Karen was presented with an achievement award by Bill Clinton at the Clinton Global Citizen Awards.