style star METROPOLITAN SOUTH INSTITUTE OF TAFE (MSIT) GRADUATE, ABIGAIL FINCHAM CHATS WITH US ABOUT WINNING THE QUEENSLAND OVERSEAS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP. What made you apply for the scholarship? I’ve been wanting to venture overseas ever since I graduated in 2007 but thought it best to work in the Australian industry first. I heard of the scholarship last year and it was perfect timing as I planned to have at least 2 years experience under my belt. An extensive application detailing qualifications, achievements and why I should be chosen was the first step. I eagerly waited and then one day received a call to attend an interview with the board of the foundation (QOF) where I had to further explain what I would do with the scholarship and why I should be the lucky person to receive such an amazing opportunity. I took along a portfolio of my work so far and expressed my love of the fashion industry and strong desire to succeed. I was happy with how the interview process went, I just had to hope that the board believed I was worth the investment.
INTERVIEW IAN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY SHAELAH ARIOTTI
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What did you think when your name was announced as the winner? I received a phone call the morning after the interview and I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face! I called my parents straight away and they were so proud although it was a little bitter sweet as it meant their
daughter would be on the other side of the world in a matter of months. It’s only just hit me recently that it’s actually going to happen. The dream of working in one of the fashion capitals of the world is finally coming to fruition. What have you been doing since graduating? I worked at a boutique in the city for 6 months doing visual merchandising and then scored a job as Assistant Product Developer for Accessories at the Colorado head office in South Brisbane. After 6 months I was moved into menswear and then after another 6 months applied for a position in womenswear and have been Assistant Product Developer for womenswear and accessories ever since. I’ve been lucky enough to experience various parts of the business and the knowledge I have gained is invaluable. It has been an amazing place to learn and I feel my skills have grown considerably in both design, product and confidence to pursue an idea. It is rare for such a big company to run in the way that Colorado does, as a Product Developer we are involved with the garment from when it is first sketched to when it is sent to store. It’s a very rewarding situation and means that I have been able to learn every aspect of the manufacturing and commercial process. As well as working fulltime I have also been styling freelance on weekends to build my portfolio as this is something that I would like to pursue overseas. From various model portfolio shoots to