Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is celebrating a historic achievement after BA (Hons) Fashion student Mayo Kanamori was awarded the prestigious Silver Award at last night’s Graduate Fashion Week (GFW) Gala Show.
Adding to the evening's historic celebrations, graduating student Joseph Barker from JCA | London Fashion Academy, a franchise partner institution of AUB, took home the coveted Gold Award at the Gala, marking an extraordinary double victory for AUB's creative network.
Mayo comments, “Winning the Silver Award at the GFW Gala is an absolutely surreal experience, and I am incredibly honoured. The calibre of talent from across the country last night was truly inspiring, so to have my collection recognised on such a prestigious stage is overwhelming.
“I am so grateful for the immense support and guidance from the fashion team at Arts University Bournemouth, who have helped me push my creative boundaries and bring my vision to life. This achievement is not just my own effort but also the result of encouragement and support from my peers and students in Levels 4 and 5. I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone.”
El Crehan, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Fashion at AUB, expressed her immense pride in the team's success:
“The GFW Gala is the pinnacle of the UK’s graduate fashion calendar, bringing together the absolute best talent from universities across the country. Winning a top-tier gala award is a notoriously difficult feat, making Mayo's silver win a massive milestone for both the student and AUB’s fashion programme.
“Mayo was commended for her rich narrative and innovative textiles use, she is an amazing, thoughtful designer, and this recognition is richly deserved. To see our partners at JCA also secure Gold makes this an unforgettable night for our wider creative community.
“We are absolutely over the moon, and the entire fashion team is thrilled. The bar is incredibly high at GFW, and while we always hope our students' exceptional talent is recognised, taking home one of the main awards is an absolute dream.”
Andy Ginn, CEO and Principal of JCA | London Fashion Academy, says, “Winning the Gold Award is an incredible testament to the dedication, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of our designers and delivery team at the Academy. Special thanks to Jenny Schwarz, Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Accessories.”
“Sharing the GFW Gala spotlight with Arts University Bournemouth, our brilliant partner institution, makes this milestone even more significant. Together, we are pushing the boundaries of fashion education and shaping the future of the global creative industry.”
