Finding Power in Community and Fashion (Even in the Rain!)
A few weeks ago, WLGYL brought our incredible community together once again above London’s skyline for our Careers in Fashion workshop and despite the rain, the energy was incredible! We shared inspiring stories, made meaningful connections, and maybe even spotted some future fashion brands in the making.
We were joined by four amazing panellists who shared their insights with the girls on navigating the fashion industry- especially when it’s not a path chosen by family or tradition. They helped our girls see the wide world of opportunities in fashion, far beyond what many of us grew up thinking was possible.
From left to right: Naomi Owolabi, Mabintou Kolley, Ana Patkovic, Kati Chitrakorn, Dunja Relic and Lena Ahn.
Here are some of the standout tips that stuck with us:
Ana Patkovic: Every obstacle is an opportunity to grow- Fashion moves fast and is full of surprises, from changing deadlines to creative hurdles. Staying focused on solutions and being persistent builds resilience. The industry values problem-solvers, so stay committed to learning and remember that most challenges are just steps along the way.
Kati Chitrakorn: If you don’t ask, you don’t get- Coming from an ethnic background can sometimes mean your work isn’t fully recognised, which might limit opportunities or salary. But if you have something valuable to offer, don’t be afraid to speak up for what you deserve!
Naomi Owolabi: Stay updated on fashion trends and keep learning new skills-
The fashion world never stops changing, and staying curious is your secret weapon. By following trends, industry news, and learning new skills, you’ll always be one step ahead.Mabintou Kolley: Share your ideas confidently and keep showing up-
Speak up and continue showing up. Going in with a positive mindset and building genuine connections opens doors and helps you stand out in this industry.
The night ended on a high with a hands-on workshop where our girls got their entrepreneurial hats on and began building their own fashion brands. Watch out - one of these could be the next big name in fashion!
We’re so proud to keep growing this community, welcoming new faces and reconnecting with familiar ones. As the evening wound down, DJ FKAY set the perfect vibe, spinning some sweet tunes while our community took time to mingle, laugh, and share stories after the event. If you’re wondering if there’s a place for you in fashion, the answer is YES!
Until the next squeeze,
Jennifer🍋
