Fashion students rise to challenge of inclusivity
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Published
16 May 2022
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The challenge of tackling equality, diversity and inclusivity in the fashion industry was set before students from the University of East London's BA Fashion Marketing course by industry leader Daniel Peters.
Mr Peters, pictured front centre, is the founder and lead strategist at Fashion Minority Report (FMR), a culture changing business which aims to increase diversity within the fashion industry by raising awareness and understanding of the many roles and routes into the business.
He also sits on the diversity and inclusion steering committee at the British Fashion Council, helping to bring about systemic change.
The unique opportunity saw the students from the School of Arts and Creative Industries work in small groups on ideas to tackle barriers to entry to the "closed" fashion world, and then present them to Mr Peters in 10-minute pitches.
FMR is just one of the many businesses and networks with whom UEL's Fashion department has strong links. These successful industry partnerships ensure fashion students receive invaluable opportunities and experience throughout their course and when they leave the University have the right skills and connections required to succeed in their careers.
Speaking about the students' presentations, Mr Peters said, "I was impressed at the way the students delved into the brief, and looked at what we do at FMR as a way to deliver to that brief as best as possible.
"Each group had different talking points which have inspired my thinking. I particularly liked the idea of setting up an academy for young people during the summer holidays, and the various ways we can work with students in learning institutions. These ideas were really interesting and got closer to the root of the problems."
He added: "The time and effort put into the presentations was evident; they were really spot-on. The work really exceeded my expectations. A fantastic job."
BA Fashion Marketing course leader Jason Forrest pictured front right, said, "This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to produce industry-standard marketing pitches and to present them to a fashion industry leader. It helps them connect with industry and develop their professional identity ready for graduate-level fashion jobs."