My experience at SFT has provided me with a comprehensive education and a fulfilling campus life. As an intimate apparel student, I have gained valuable insights into the industry. Visiting factories in Mainland China allowed me to witness the lace-making process firsthand, which significantly enhanced my learning experience. 

Participating in the Miro Bra x PolyU SFT Bra & Panties Design Competition was a pivotal moment. It taught me how to incorporate functional elements, like bra pads, into my designs while ensuring they met customer needs. Seeing my concept evolve from an idea to a market-ready product gave me a profound sense of accomplishment. 

I am grateful to SFT for providing these opportunities, allowing me to showcase my talents and gain invaluable experiences. I believe they will greatly benefit my future career in the intimate apparel industry.

“I do not design clothing; I design dreams.” 

During my time at SFT, I faced challenges that have shaped my outlook. Balancing rigorous fashion coursework with my passion for social advocacy taught me resilience and empathy. I found that fashion is more than just practical; it can evoke emotions and drive change in individuals and society. This realisation has inspired me to launch the “John Marcus Collections”, an evening wear couture brand that honours my Filipino and Hong Kong heritage. Through this initiative, I celebrate cultural beauty while offering educational workshops on slow fashion practices. I am dedicated to uplifting the underserved communities, especially ethnic minorities and women who are facing hardship, by sharing the love of couture on a global scale. 

As a proud Filipino-Hong Kong fashion designer based in Hong Kong, I am committed to promoting traditional and sustainable fashion, particularly in evening wear and couture. I was awarded Outstanding Student 2024, reinforcing my role as a voice for the unheard and marginalised, thus addressing important issues such as ethnic minority awareness and cultural sustainability within the fashion industry.

Studying at SFT has been an eye-opening experience that has increased my passion for fashion. One of the most remarkable highlights of my journey was being selected to attend the Louis Vuitton Men’s Pre-Fall 2024 Show by Pharrel Williams in Hong Kong. 

In the second semester of my third year, I was fortunate enough to be selected as an exchange student at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute. This opportunity allowed me to work with people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, broadening my perspective on how fashion is approached in different parts of the world and enriching my learning experience. 

One of my biggest dreams as a fashion student has always been to organise a fashion show, and I am incredibly grateful that SFT provided me with the knowledge and network to make this dream come true. Alongside my classmates from the fashion design specialisms, I had the privilege of collaborating with the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong to organise a meaningful fashion show tailored for visually impaired individuals. 

I am beyond thankful for the experiences, connections, and personal growth that I’ve gained throughout my time at SFT. These experiences have not only shaped my skills but also strengthened my determination to make a meaningful impact in the fashion industry.

Studying fashion and textiles at SFT has been a journey of creativity and innovation. Aside from developing practical skills such as sewing and pattern-making, I also learned how technologies like AI are changing various fashion domains - from design to retail. The field that excites me the most is the blending of the fashion business and marketing, where I have learned how to analyse trends, develop brands, and strategise for an ever-changing market. 

SFT allowed me to test my strategies in the classroom, which enhanced my understanding of responsible fashion, especially when it comes to sustainable practices, digital tools, and upcycling. The community was incredibly supportive, and the projects that I was given were tailored for the industry, helping to build my confidence as a future leader. 

SFT has provided me with mentors and opportunities to collaborate, which have helped me to think beyond the boundaries. Whether it is the use of AI design tools or strategic branding, SFT has unleashed my creativity so that now, I am ready for the ever-changing world of fashion. I hope my narrative pushes boundaries and inspires others to delve into the wonders of this industry.

My journey in this field began with a fascination of how technology can revolutionise the fashion industry. At SFT, I have gained a solid foundation in areas such as fabric technology, materials science, garment engineering, and sustainable practices. 

The curriculum has allowed me to thoroughly examine the technical aspects of fashion, including fabric analysis and production techniques. I gained hands-on experience in the labs, where I learned about innovative materials and their applications in modern fashion. 

One of the most rewarding experiences was a project that focused on integrating embroidery techniques into smart textiles. It was inspiring to collaborate with my supervisor, Prof. Yoyo Huang, who greatly motivated me during my final year project, emphasising the importance of making a positive impact in the industry. 

I am excited to continue my journey and contribute to the future of fashion technology, where creativity and innovation go hand in hand.