05 Feb 2021|Noida | Amity University, Noida ( Online )
Virtual panel discussion on ‘Industry expectations from Fashion Professionals- A perspective from our Alumni’
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A virtual panel discussion on ‘Industry expectations from Fashion Professionals- A perspective from our Alumni’ was organized by Amity University Uttar Pradesh. Successful alumni from the university shared their journey into the fashion world and elaborated on how students can equip themselves for the future. The session was organized by Amity School of Fashion Technology under Amity Directorate of Applied Arts/ Fine Arts / Performing Arts/ Visual Arts.
Prof. (Dr.) Pradeep Joshi, Director General, Amity Directorate of Applied Arts/ Fine Arts / Performing Arts/ Visual Arts welcomed the panelists and stated that alumni are an integral resource & important stakeholder for Amity who help in developing the institutions and guiding the students with their experiences thereby helping existing students meet the industry expectations. He added that programs at institutes are designed to provide the basic knowledge that is further supplemented with the experience of successfully placed students in the industry.
Ms. Kalyani Kanwar, Fashion editor at Trend Prive Magazine, Paris averred that the training she received at Amity enabled her to fly high confidently. She called upon students to pursue a fashion internship to kickstart their industry experience and stressed on the need to constantly add on to their skill sets and with a positive mindset. Ms. Kanwar encouraged students to identify their dreams in the fashion world and work towards it. She asked students to take upon initiatives and enrich themselves creatively by marking their presence in the online space. She further suggested to stay updated with the fashion industry and trends by following big labels & designers on social media. She also sighted the importance of learning a foreign language, that is extensively emphasized upon at Amity University.
Ms. Devika Awasthi, Head of Design at Laabha stated that a good design concept is important for an upcoming fashion professional that involves great research. She stressed on the need for doing extensive research work to work towards meeting the end buyer requirements. Also, having quick market availability works wonders in attaining profits & how the industry is looking for professionals that understand the entire process, remarked Ms Awasthi. She stressed on doing internships under the right professions and learning from their experience.
Ms Gauri Goyal, Freelance Merchandiser with Label “naveli” talked about the importance of accepting change and how the quick pace of adaptation will help a future fashion professional. She suggested students to learn how to predict the market and condition themselves to the changing trends sighting the example of rising online shopping due to the pandemic. She also shared her views on the ability to challenge the competitor that makes one stand apart.
Ms. Deepali Sood, Fashion Consultant, Giorgio Armani averred that the fashion industry is striving for passionate individuals who can bring in innovation, new ideas and are ready to work out of their comfort zone. She stressed on the need for having a constant thirst for knowledge, learning & focus on overall development. She added that constant exposure to various activities can help students widen their knowledge base & acquire skills to meet the industry demands.
Ms. Akriti Kohli, Sr. merchandiser, Shahi Exports talked of how digital & retail market is doing well and how consumer interest has moved towards online shopping during the past year due to Covid-19. She added that this has shift has made brands switch towards e-commerce market & how sustainable and organic products are gaining significance. She asked students to think more towards the digital market & strengthen their skills in that segment.
Ms Deepshikha Chauhan - Section Manager - Marks & Spencer stressed on being open for opportunities & to be versatile. She also talked about the rising popularity of online shopping and growing online sales. She stated that digital marketing is a growing platform owing to the pandemic along with assisted shopping gaining popularity in the post-pandemic era in the retail industry. She advised students to work on sustainable fashion and be ready to adapt to change.
The panel of experts also addressed several queries posed by students related to future job opportunities and how they can strengthen their knowledge base while pursuing their programs. The panelists called for strengthening core concepts & to work upon improving their technical and computer skills. They also emphasized on the importance of industry experience. Ms Smita Bagai, Associate Professor, Amity School of Fashion Technology moderated the session that was well-attended by hundreds of students, staff, and faculty members.