Dr Magnusson and Anu Goel
GCU London student Anu Goel has won a prestigious Magnus Magnusson Award to help establish an innovative fashion design business.
Anu, who is studying an MSc International Fashion Marketing, is the first GCU London student to win a Santander Magnusson Award. The awards were established by Glasgow Caledonian University in the name of its late Chancellor to allow students to follow their dreams.
She will use the funding to launch a design studio creating textile and embroidery swatches for the international fashion industry.
Anu Goel said: “Winning a Santander Magnusson Award has boosted my confidence and is so encouraging and motivating. It now looks like my life-long dream can become a reality.”
“I plan to build on my years of experience in the fashion industry to establish a studio. We will create innovative designs based on the spring/summer 2017 forecasts to market to international fashion designers and top high-street fashion brands based in the UK, Europe and US.”
She added: “I have always wanted to establish my own design studio, but had only a vague idea of how to go about it. When I came to the UK and started studying at GCU London and exploring the market, my experience, dreams and business idea really came together. I hope that by working with craftspeople around the world I can create innovative designs and help skilled people in developing countries earn a good living – as well as help people look beautiful!”
Students, their families and friends, staff and invited guests attended an awards ceremony on May 31 hosted by Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Pamela Gillies CBE FRSE and Dr Sally Magnusson, daughter of the late Chancellor and Honorary President of the Magnusson Fellowship at GCU.
Professor Gillies said: “As the University for the Common Good, we are so proud of the achievements that have been made possible over the years through this incredible initiative. The projects will enable the recipients to develop personally or professionally, giving something back to communities around the world.”
Dr Magnusson said: “It is wonderful to see the University continuing to nurture students and researchers with such creativity and drive. The 2016 Magnus Magnusson Award winners are no exception and I know that they will make good use of these special grants and act as worthy ambassadors for the University and the Awards.”
Jillian Watt, Director of the Glasgow Caledonian University Foundation, said: “Since the awards began in 2008, in honour of Magnus and his passion for learning, over 60 students have been able to realise their dreams and ambitions. This year was particularly special with the addition of the Sir Alex Ferguson Magnusson Awards.”
