UKFT launches membership drive for emerging designers

Earlier this year UKFT Rise was created as a network for under 35s working in the fashion and textile industry. It has now launched a UKFT Rise membership for individuals who want to build a career or business in the industry.

Members will be given discounts on all UKFT Rise and UKFT events and seminars allowing them access to the best speakers and networking events taking place year-round.

UKFT chairman John Miln said: “We are dedicated as an organisation to really nurture and mentor the next generation of our great industry. The feedback we have had suggests that young people wanted somewhere to connect with peers in their own sector in an informal environment.”

UKFT Rise launched its new membership at an event co-hosted with Start-Up Britain in London yesterday which helped give advice to those wanting to start and grow their own fashion businesses.

Speakers at the event included Harvey Nichols chief executive Joseph Wan and Charles Tyrwhitt founder Nick Wheeler. Start-up fashion businesses were also given the chance to pitch to buyers from John Lewis, House of Fraser and Zalando.

UKFT will roll out regular events in 2013 with inspirational speakers across the country. Working with a young committee of people under 35 in the industry Rise will be run by them for UKFT. A UKFT Rise database will be developed for all members to create a real network for the next generation of fashion to be part of.

UK Fashion and Textile Association