It’s been a tough year for fashion – high streets were forced to shut their doors, design students battled against online learning and cancelled showcases, fashion weeks turned phygital and industry leaders signed an open letter to the UK Government pleading for support. While the impact of the coronavirus pandemic has undeniably been felt across all industries, those in the creative industries – from artist studios to shop floors to head offices – have had to evolve our work, the way we work, and the way we interact with our work. In light of the difficulties faced by the industry, we’re continuously inspired by the creatives and makers who have spent the past year tackling the biggest issues that face the industry – from sustainable material innovation to community outreach projects, mask-making and photo-taking to zine-creating and business-launching.
Today, the British Fashion Council has announced the launch of the BFC Changemakers Prize in partnership with Swarovski, a new initiative celebrating the unsung stars cultivating positive change in the fashion industry. Open to all working in fashion across the UK, the three winners will receive a mentorship package that offers support to continue their work within the industry and a cash prize of £5,000.
The Prize will be judged by an esteemed panel of industry stalwarts including Edward Enninful, Farrah Storr, Ib Kamara, Jo Ellison, Lily Cole, Munroe Bergdorf and Tan France. The judges will be evaluating outstanding work that aligns with one of the three pillars of the BFC’s Institute of Positive Fashion: Environment, People or Craftsmanship and Community.
“The BFC Changemakers Prize in Partnership with Swarovski is the largest new BFC prize launched in the last five years,” says BFC Chief Executive, Caroline Rush. “We often talk about the 890,000 people our industry employs and I am thrilled to discover some of their stories and hear their achievements. From the shop floor and the studios to the manufacturers and head offices, we are searching across the country for anyone, regardless of their job title, to find out who has contributed through their work in creating an industry which we are all so proud to be a part of.”
From the shop floor and the studios to the manufacturers and head offices, we are searching across the country for anyone, regardless of their job title, to find out who has contributed through their work in creating an industry which we are all so proud to be a part of.
Caroline Rush, BFC Chief Executive
Did you start an online community fashion collective during lockdown? Have a friend who spent lockdown developing sustainable materials? Or a fashion teacher that went above and beyond to deliver despite the tech restrictions? Nominations open today, and entrants must be nominated by colleagues, peers, businesses or employers in recognition of their outstanding contribution to positive change. More information on criteria and entry forms can be found here. Nominations will close on Tuesday 11th May with the nine finalists announced in May and the three ultimate winners in July.
So, what are you waiting for?
Enjoyed this story? Help keep independent queer-led publishing alive by becoming a BRICKS community member for early bird access to our cover stories and exclusive content for as little as £2.50 per month.