The British Fashion Council have launched The BFC Changemakers Prize in Partnership with Swarovski, searching for trailblazers in the fashion industry
The BFC’s latest project aims to discover and celebrate individuals within the fashion industry; the unsung stars who go above and beyond, making outstanding contributions and striving for positive change. With such a wealth of fashion talent and heritage in Scotland, fashion’s next star could be closer than you think….
Scotland’s textile industry is renowned for its rich heritage and raw materials, from Coco Chanel’s iconic tweed, Mackintosh’s famous waterproof coats and being the home of Harris Tweed. A craftsmanship perfected over 300 years, cashmere is created to the highest quality with the only mill in Britain carrying out the entire cashmere weaving process from raw fibre to finished garment based in the Scottish Highlands. Statistics show around 8,500 people are employed in 366 businesses in the sector across the country, including the staff at iconic Barrie Knitwear, which is now owned by Chanel.
The prize is open to anyone working in the fashion industry—initially in the UK—and focuses on celebrating individuals, and championing inclusivity and innovative thinking. Entrants will be nominated by colleagues, peers, businesses and employers in recognition of outstanding work that aligns with one of the three pillars of the BFC’s Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF): Environment, People or Craftsmanship and Community.
The judging panel will include a number of inspiring, high-profile individuals from the fashion and creative industries, who will select nine finalists and three winners; one representing each of the IPF pillars. The Judging Committee is led by BFC chief executive Caroline Rush and Swarovski creative director Giovanna Engelbert and includes Edward Enninful, editor-in-chief, British Vogue & European editorial director, Vogue; Farrah Storr, editor-in-chief, ELLE UK; Ib Kamara, editor-in-chief, Dazed, Jo Ellison, editor, How to Spend It & deputy editor, FT Weekend; Lily Cole, model & activist; Munroe Bergdorf, model & activist, and Tan France, fashion television personality.
The three winners will be positioned as future industry trailblazers, and receive a mentorship package that offers support to continue their good work within the industry and a cash prize.
Nominations will close on Tuesday 11th May with the nine finalists announced in May and the three ultimate winners in July.
Nominations are now open and more information on criteria and entry forms can be found here.
