Take a look at her career highlights so far and her tips for students studying BA (Hons) Fashion Business and Promotion.
What is your background and experience prior to Birmingham City University?
Before joining Birmingham City University, I spent over a decade working in fashion, gaining hands-on experience and knowledge about the industry from high street retailers to high-end designers.
One of my favourite things about working in the fashion industry has been the travel, I have presented my work in Florence, Shanghai, Las Vegas, New York, and South Korea.
As a fashion researcher, I have worked on some really fun and meaningful projects, blending practical skills with innovative ideas. My journey has been all about pushing boundaries, addressing issues and making the fashion industry accessible to all regardless of their social class.
It’s really difficult to pick a career highlight, I’ve had so many amazing experiences in the industry but having been recognised for social fashion research and selected as a finalist for the sustainable fashion agenda, fashion values challenge would be up there and exhibiting my work in London and Copenhagen.
What is your favourite thing about BCU?
My favourite thing about BCU is the incredible opportunity for collaboration. The University is a hub for connecting with diverse and talented individuals who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Plus, being in a vibrant city like Birmingham means there are endless creative opportunities to explore, from art and music to tech and startups. It's the perfect place to grow, learn, and make a real impact.
What inspired you to teach BA (Hons) Fashion Business and Promotion at BCU?
As a Midlander, I was inspired to teach Fashion Business and Promotion at BCU because of the university's cutting-edge approach to fashion education and its vibrant, culturally diverse environment. BCU is known for its innovative curriculum that combines academic excellence with real-world industry experiences, which resonates with my personal values of wanting to make the fashion industry accessible to everyone, regardless of social class. My professional focus has always been about breaking down barriers and opening opportunities for all. I firmly believe that fashion can be used as a force for good.
BCU’s focus on sustainability, creativity, and global perspectives is especially appealing. It allows me to engage with students on important issues and the latest trends in the fashion industry, preparing them for a rapidly evolving market. The strong connections with industry leaders and the collaborative atmosphere at BCU provide an exciting and dynamic setting for both teaching and learning.
Being a course leader at BCU means being part of a forward-thinking, inclusive community that values diversity and innovation. The chance to inspire and empower the next generation of fashion business leaders in such an environment is what truly motivates me.
Plus, the Midlands is buzzing with potential, offering unique chances for students to thrive and succeed in the fashion world.
What are the benefits of studying BA (Hons) Fashion Business and Promotion in Birmingham?
Studying Fashion Business and Promotion in Birmingham is awesome because the city is a major creative hub. It’s full of inspiration and opportunities for anyone passionate about fashion. The location is super convenient, making it easy to get around and connect with industry events and professionals. Plus, the cost of living here is way more affordable than in other cities.
The Midlands is home to a ton of huge fashion brands, offering great networking and internship opportunities. At BCU, you'll learn from expert lecturers who bring real-world experience and insights, helping you kickstart an amazing career in fashion.
There is something about Birmingham as a city which has always pulled me back, I lived in London for years, but it never felt like my home. There is a sense of community amongst creatives which continues to develop year on year in Birmingham with a diverse and dynamic fashion scene, and a mix of independent boutiques, high street stores, and luxury brands. It provides opportunities to observe and engage with different facets of the fashion industry. Students can benefit from networking opportunities, internships, and collaborations with local and national fashion companies, gaining valuable real-world experience.
Students on the Fashion Business and Promotion course benefit from experienced industry profession within the faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive support services to enhance their learning experience and career prospects.
What can students do to help prepare them for the course?
To get ready for the Fashion Business and Promotions course at BCU, here are a few tips:
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Stay informed: Keep up with the latest trends and news in the fashion industry. Follow fashion news alerts, magazines, and influencers to stay in the loop.
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Build a presence: Start creating a professional social media of any fashion-related projects or ideas you've worked on. This could be anything from styling outfits to writing about fashion trends.
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Get experience: Look for internships or part-time jobs in fashion retail or marketing. Real-world experience can give you a big advantage.
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Network: Connect with people already in the fashion industry. Set up a LinkedIn, attend local fashion events, join online fashion communities, and engage with industry professionals on social media.
These steps will help you hit the ground running and make the most of your time on the course.
Lastly, do you have any advice or tips for working in the industry?
Absolutely! Here are some exciting tips for breaking into the fashion industry:
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Put yourself out there: Don’t be afraid to showcase your work and ideas. Start a fashion blog, create an Instagram feed to show your development, or TikTok to share your unique perspective.
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Take risks: The fashion industry thrives on innovation and bold ideas. Experiment with your style, try out new concepts, and don't be afraid to push boundaries.
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Network, network, network: Attend fashion events, join industry groups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building a strong network can open doors and create amazing opportunities.
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Stay curious: Keep learning and evolving. Take online courses, read fashion books, and stay updated with industry trends to keep your skills sharp and your ideas fresh.
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Be resilient: The fashion world can be competitive, but persistence pays off. Learn from setbacks, stay focused on your goals, and keep pushing forward.
Remember, the fashion industry rewards creativity, passion, and a fearless attitude. So go out there, make your mark, and enjoy it!