“Never hesitate to seize opportunities and explore your passion. The only way to achieve something extraordinary and go beyond your wildest dreams is by taking chances.”
SFT takes pride in sharing the career journey of one of our final year BA students, Chan Hiu-nam, Herbie, documenting how Herbie is making remarkable strides in the luxury fashion industry. We chatted with her briefly to learn more about her experiences and insights as an intern and then staff at FENDI.
Q: How did you find out about the internship opportunity at FENDI, a prestigious luxury fashion house?
A: I learned about the opening through an email from Dr Carrie Wong, who manages SFT’s fashion business internship programme. The email informed all of the BA students about the marketing internship opportunity at FENDI Hong Kong. Without hesitation, I jumped at the chance, driven by my unwavering passion for the luxury fashion industry.
Q: How did you prepare for your job interview with FENDI?
A: Before the interview, I spent time to thoroughly prepare myself, role playing by practicing Q&A interviews to make sure that I was fully ready. Throughout the formal interview, my focus was on showing my profound passion for fashion, expressing my eagerness to contribute to both the fashion house and the team, and emphasising my commitment to continuous learning and development. Crucially, my aim was to present myself authentically, and share my good-natured character, career aspirations, and objectives for the luxury fashion industry. During the interview, I had the sense that FENDI was looking for someone who not only has a profound understanding and passion for fashion but also embodies self-love and authenticity. Fortunately, I successfully navigated the interview and secured an offer, which marked the start of my journey in FENDI's marketing internship programme in July 2023 — an exciting introduction to both my very first internship and the beginning of my career in the world of luxury fashion.
Q: What is your current position?
A: Initially, I started as an intern in the Regional Relations and Communications Department. I gained a sense of deep satisfaction with my work and appreciated the collaborative spirit of the team. Notably, my dedication was acknowledged, and at the end of my internship, I was pleasantly surprised to receive an offer to continue my work with FENDI. While my title has now changed to "Marketing Vendor", my responsibilities remain the same.
Q: What are your primary responsibilities?
A: My primary responsibilities include providing support to FENDI’s Regional Public Relations & Communications team. I organise media relations, coordinate with celebrities, and manage editorial and digital PR activities for FENDI’s Asia Pacific region and Hong Kong. I also work closely with the press coordinator on overseeing the overseas PR samples that are loaned out to celebrities and the media. Furthermore, I contribute to and participate in various PR campaigns and events hosted in Hong Kong.
Q: What advice do you have for students who aspire to enter the luxury fashion industry?
A: Be attentive to the emails from the School; you never know when they might present an opportunity that aligns with your career aspirations. Additionally, take the initiative to explore new internship prospects by thoroughly researching online. When you find job opportunities, don’t hesitate. Apply for the position! Explore your passion because the only way to do something extraordinary and go beyond your wildest dreams is by taking chances.
SFT appreciates Herbie’s time and wisdom for sharing details of her career journey and valuable advice to her fellow peers and SFT students. We cannot wait to see the wonderful things that she is going to achieve at FENDI and wish her all the best.
