Inspiring designers face Dune challenge

College students looking to carve out a career in retail design are being invited to take part in a third annual competition.

KGK Genix is partnering again with Herts Regional College for the launch of the Student Retail Design and Careers competition for the third year running with entrants being asked to design a retail concept for the globally recognised brand, Dune London.

This initiative continues to give college students a unique chance to showcase their creative talent and gain valuable experience in the retail design industry.

Graham Pitts, Managing Director at KGK Genix, said: “Helping young people discover their potential is one of the most rewarding things we do at KGK Genix. Seeing past winners develop their skills and take their first steps into the industry is a reminder of why initiatives like this matter.

“We urge other businesses to create similar opportunities to inspire the next generation. The future of our industry depends on it.”

Over the past two years, this competition has uncovered incredible talent, with winners including Lorna Storey and Tamsin Shattock going on to achieve great success.

In Year 1, students rose to the challenge of designing for global sportswear giant Nike, while in Year 2, they crafted innovative retail concepts for the iconic fashion brand Superdry.

Both years were a resounding success, uncovering incredible talent and delivering outstanding results:

• 52 work experience and insight days provided

• Six students offered six-week paid internships

• Three students hired as full-time employees (two in project management and one in the pre-press department)

Matt Walsh, Operations Director at KGK Genix, added:

“The creativity and energy these students bring is inspiring. Collaborating with Herts Regional College to provide this platform is a privilege, and we’re excited to see the incredible designs that will emerge this year.

“The competition not only supports students in exploring career opportunities but also strengthens the partnership between local businesses and local education.

The competition will be judged by an experienced and diverse panel, including:

• Donna Schulz (CEO, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce)

• Lorna Storey (Project Manager, KGK Genix)

• Graham Pitts (Managing Director, KGK Genix)

• Steve Lister (Retail Consultant)

• Ian Scott (Retail Consultant)

• Jim Sullivan (Dune London Account Manager, KGK Genix)

• Matt Handley (Managing Director, Matching Talent with Opportunity – specialist print recruiter)

Donna Schultz commented: “I was delighted to be asked to be one of the judges for this competition. This initiative by KGK Genix is a shining example of how businesses can support local talent and drive innovation. We are proud to support such a forward-thinking project that creates meaningful opportunities for young people and strengthens our community.”

This year’s competition kicks off on 11th January 2024. For further information, contact enquiries@kgkgenix.co.uk

It’s part in Tea & Cake for HDAH. All the money raised will go to supporting those affected by domestic abuse.

To celebrate our 20th Anniversary, Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline is inviting you to take part in Tea & Cake for HDAH. All the money raised will go to supporting those affected by domestic abuse.

Hart Learning & Development are here to help you attract, retain and develop the best emerging talent in the market.

It’s very easy to take part. Sign-up using the email address below and we will send you a host package with guidance and tips on how to get started. It is up to you to choose when, where and who attends your event. You can host it at home with friends, at work with colleagues or fundraise in your local community. Ideas, resources and full instructions are included in your package, as well as how to collect donations and send them to the charity. Be sure to take lots of pictures so we can include them in our social media updates!

It’s very easy to take part. Sign-up using the email address below and we will send you a host package with guidance and tips on how to get started. It is up to you to choose when, where and who attends your event. You can host it at home with friends, at work with colleagues or fundraise in your local community. Ideas, resources and full instructions are included in your package, as well as how to collect donations and send them to the charity. Be sure to take lots of pictures so we can include them in our social media updates!

Herts is a free, confidential support and signposting service. It is often the first port of call for a victim, survivor, family member, professional or perpetrator seeking help. As well as supporting around 2,400 callers a year plus many more through our website, the Helpline runs a confidential email service, holds educational sessions and raises awareness through campaigns and resources within the community.