NEWS
Students take their studies global with fashion scholarship
Two students from the School of Fashion and Textiles will travel to China after being awarded prestigious scholarships from fashion business, Expedition Apparel.
The Expedition Apparel scholarship recognises the outstanding efforts of a second year student from the Associate Degree in Fashion Design and Technology.
With the high calibre and diversity of applications last year, the judging panel decided to award the prize to two students, Emily Foenander and Fazilet Cayli.
The scholarship includes a personalised trip to China, allowing the winners to forge industry connections and learn about the country's manufacturing processes.
Ms Foenander said she felt both shocked and excited on being announced one of the winners.
"It is such a great way to receive first-hand experience within the industry, as not many students get the chance to see how offshore processes work," she said.
"It really is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am so grateful to be a part of it."
Ms Foenander's application focused on her passion for footwear design and production, while Ms Cayli showcased her extensive knowledge of Australian wool.
Melbourne-based business Expedition Apparel is a modern fusion of French and Australian fashion and acts as the master licensee for iconic French label Daniel Hechter.
Peter Thompson, Expedition Apparel CEO, said both students were confident, driven and professional.
"I believe they will excel in their future careers and I look forward to helping them achieve this," he said.
Mandy Penton, Program Manager Fashion Design and Technology, said developing and strengthening partnerships with international companies was beneficial for both RMIT students and the industry.
"Giving students a real-life opportunity to experience clothing manufacturing in an overseas market like China is invaluable," Ms Penton said.
"The students gain a richer insight into how their studies are put into practice in a commercial environment."
RMIT's Fashion and Textiles pathway allows students to complement their two-year Associate Degree in Fashion Design and Technology with an additional year of study to gain the qualification in the Bachelor of Fashion (Design Technology).