The new scheme is a platform for those with ambition and drive working in the fashion and textile industry where they can regularly meet and gain knowledge from key experts across the sector.

At its premier event in London, supported by The Woolmark Company, guest speaker Nick Robertson the founder and chief executive of ASOS shared his experiences of growing a successful business.

Robertson advised the attendees "Your generation is rife with entrepreneurialism and the challenge we have is to grow great brands and really focus on differentiation and what the next big opportunities will be."

UKFT Rise is part of UKFT's commitment to support the future of the industry by advising and bringing together people who have started businesses or want to know how to grow their career within the industry and stand out from the crowd.

UKFT chairman Peter Lucas said: "We spoke to many people in the industry who said there was a lack of resource for the younger generation. Our peers built their businesses on networking with customers, competitors and suppliers, building strong career-long relationships. This is difficult to do in today's fast pace business world and these relationships are harder to form."

"We think it is so important that the next leaders of this industry can gain knowledge and experience to help them build their careers and their businesses. To do this in a non-intimidating and relaxed atmosphere with fantastic inspirational speakers is something we feel is our duty to fulfil for all young ambitious people in fashion and textiles."

The Woolmark Company's Country Manager UK Rebecca Sharp said: "The Woolmark Company is keen to support the development of young' up and coming talent within the UK fashion and textile industry. We want to encourage young people to break into this dynamic industry and we believe UKFT Rise will provide a unique support network and platform for this.

"The UKFT Rise event is a good opportunity to raise awareness of the Woolmark brand and Merino wool amongst a generation that is not necessarily familiar with the brand or the fibre and its amazing natural properties. The Woolmark Company through a range of activities hopes to inspire people to use and wear Merino wool and to experience its versatility and relevance in today’s fashion and textile industry."

UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT)