Gucci Brings Its Changemakers Programme to London

Gucci‘s Changemakers Programme, the fashion house’s initiative that helps support emerging student designers, has done great numbers throughout North America, aiding over 50 non-profit organizations with grants and providing scholarships to 70 college students. Gucci recently announced the Programme’s expansion into the UK, which sees the house partner with the University of the Arts London’s (UAL) London College of Fashion (LCF) to continue offering multidisciplinary scholarships to a new group of university students who face financial barriers.

The Changemakers initiative works to provide the talented students with the necessary creative tools and platforms needed to advance their careers in fashion, along with a practical panels and workshops. Multidisciplinary artist Ronan Mckenzie will host a series of workshops, tapping guests from Rise 365, Art Against Knives, and The Advocacy Academy, that will culminate in an end-of-year exhibition. ”I’m excited to once again partner with Gucci on Changemakers London,” Mckenzie expressed. “Guided by their interests and passions, the show will be a multimedia showcase that celebrates the budding talent and incredible creativity in London.”

Vanessa Kingori, Chief Business Officer at Condé Nast Britain, helped in selecting this year’s scholars.  “It was a privilege to witness the high level of talent, drive, and potential of the candidates as well as the power of this opportunity to potentially change their lives,” Kingori shared in a statement. “By supporting talent from underrepresented communities, we can help pave the way for a new generation to fulfill their potential and bring their much-needed value to the world, free from the financial pressure and economic burden that comes with higher education. Initiatives like Gucci Changemakers possess the extraordinary transformative ability to ignite inspiration and empowerment within the emerging generation of creative talents.” The honored scholars are listed below with their full academic qualifications.

Joy Buckley – BA (Hons) Fashion Public Relations and Communication, London College of Fashion, UAL

Anissa-Louisa Kerbouche – BA (Hons) Fashion Journalism and Content Creation, London College of Fashion, UAL

Alicia Grilli – BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising, London College of Fashion, UAL

Professor Andrew Teverson, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Head of London College of Fashion, UAL, echoes Kingori’s enthusiasm, stating “Gucci’s commitment to providing financial support to diverse, undergraduate students interested in building a career in fashion aligns perfectly with our philosophy of open and inclusive education to shape the leaders of tomorrow.”

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