Remarkable success in two prestigious international fashion competitions held in China: the Hempel Award and the Runhua Award

Here at MFI, we continue to establish ourselves as a hub of global talent, with students achieving remarkable success in two prestigious international fashion competitions held in China: the Hempel Award and the Runhua Award. These competitions, known for their high standards and global reach, have provided our students a chance to showcase their creativity and innovative design skills.

Hempel Award

The Hempel Award, a globally renowned competition organised by the China Fashion Association, is a highlight of China Fashion Week. Traditionally held in Beijing, the event has recently moved to Hangzhou, further cementing its importance in the international fashion calendar. Out of approximately 800 applicants worldwide, only 25 finalists are selected each year. Since 2014, MFI has proudly had finalists represented every year, including Anna Thomas, who won an award in 2017.

This year, MFI graduate Hadisa Ahmad Tabussam, from the BA Fashion programme, achieved the honour of being a finalist. The competition not only celebrates outstanding talent but also fosters cultural exchange and innovation in fashion design.

Runhua Award

The Runhua Award is another global fashion competition organised by the China Fashion Association and Jiangxi Institute of Fashion Technology, with its catwalk final held in Nanchang. For the first time this year, MFI’s second-year BA Fashion students participated, and their hard work resulted in outstanding achievements.

Two Level 5 students, Florence Raven and Tszyan Ng (Melody), were selected as finalists after producing four outfits within just five weeks—all while balancing their coursework. Both students flew to China to present their collections, making them the only UK representatives in the competition. Their hard work paid off spectacularly, with both winning awards:

Florence Raven received the Best Business Award.

Tszyan Ng (Melody) was honoured with the Design Star Award.

Student Reflections

Both Florence and Melody shared insights into their incredible journeys and experiences in China.

Florence Raven described the experience as “one of the most incredible of my life.” Balancing preparation for the competition alongside coursework and a part-time job was no small feat. “There were a lot of 4 a.m. starts,” she admitted, but the result was worth it. She reflected on her participation in intense exams that involved draping, pattern-making, and garment creation. “This pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me an insight into a completely different way of learning. It’s an experience that will stay with me forever.”

Tszyan Ng (Melody) expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her designs on an international platform, describing the entire experience as “invaluable.” “The most memorable moment was seeing my designs come to life on the runway and working with supportive colleagues who made the event a success.” Melody also highlighted the meaningful connections she made with talented designers from around the world, which she believes will last a lifetime.

MFI congratulates Hadisa, Florence, and Melody on their outstanding achievements and looks forward to continuing to support our students in reaching new heights in their fashion careers.