Staff and researchers from MFI contributed to key discussions on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation at the prestigious global fashion education conference.

Last week, staff from Manchester Fashion Institute (MFI) attended the annual International Foundation of Fashion Technology Institutes (IFFTI) Conference, hosted by London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London, in its impressive new campus. The conference brought together leading academics from fashion institutions worldwide to share research, best practices in education, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.

MFI faculty and researchers contributed extensively to the conference, presenting on a diverse range of topics that reflect the institute’s thought leadership and commitment to innovation in fashion education and research. 

Notable contributions included:

• Clare McTurk presented on integrating education for Sustainable Development Goals in fashion curricula.
• Dr. Benjamin Wild, Jo Jenkinson, Morolake Dairo, and Dr. Sharon Nunoo led a research workshop examining how F/fashion Narratives influence personal and social identity formation.
• Dr. Elizabeth Kealy-Morris conducted a research workshop on advancing inclusivity through human-centred design.
• PhD student Tanya Nash-Perkins shared her research on novel antimicrobial finishing for horse blanket textiles.
• Vincent Patterson and Anna Mangas led ‘One Sheet,’ a workshop focused on collaborative communication and creativity for large student cohorts.
• PhD student Catrin Cousins, supervised by Dr. Patsy Perry, presented research on sustainable product development in the UK’s ultra-fast fashion sector.
• Jo Jenkinson delivered a research paper repositioning fashion as a method to explore the lived experiences of youth.
• Sian Vance and Gaby Harris presented on the evolution of fashion cultures in education as a means to prepare students for the future industry landscape.
• Julie Hodson explored holistic collaboration between academic researchers, educational leaders, and industry professionals.
• Professor Liz Barnes contributed to the conference in her role as Deputy Chair of the IFFTI Executive Committee.
• Leslie Holden, Co-Chair of MFI’s External Advisory Group, was honoured with Distinguished IFFTI Membership in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the organisation.
• Helen McCormick contributed to the IFFTI Education Sub-Committee.
• Books authored by Clare McTurk and Dr. Benjamin Wild were featured at the Bloomsbury Publishing exhibition.

Our presence at IFFTI 2025 highlighted the breadth of expertise within the institute and reaffirmed its standing as a key player in the global network of fashion schools.

Manchester Fashion Institute extends its gratitude to IFFTI, London College of Fashion, and conference host John Lau for a thought-provoking and inspiring event. We look forward to next year’s conference at RMIT University Vietnam.