The Faculty of Humanities and Business Engagement at The University of Manchester invite you to a question time event which will consider the topic that fashion is a force for good.
The fashion sector, and textiles industry more broadly, is changing. In a world where safeguarding the environment and developing sustainable practices is growing more pressing every day and where workers should be able to develop and enhance their skills in exchange for a fair living wage, working in a safe and protected environment, there has been little choice for positive change to occur.
This event is an opportunity to reflect on the positive developments that are taking place in the sector, hearing from industry experts as well as those undertaking research on human rights, ethical and sustainable supply chains or helping to foster and develop skills within the industry. Whilst we will be considering the many ways the sector is pushing forward with a positive agenda, the panel will also reflect on the challenges that the changes have brought, and are still bringing, as well as the opportunities for the future.
This event will bring together sector stakeholders within academia and the textiles industry to answer your questions on the developments, challenges and opportunities for fashion to be a force for good.
Speakers include:
• Vikas Shah, Managing Director and CEO, Swiscot Group
• Alok Ruia, Director at Ruia Group
• Ayesha Mustafa, Founder, Fashion ComPassion
• Sophie Slater, Co-Founder, Birdsong Social Enterprise
• Stephanie Barrientos, Professor, Global Development Institute, The University of Manchester
• Patsy Perry, Lecturer in Fashion Marketing, The University of Manchester
• Julie Froud, Professor of Financial Innovation, Alliance Manchester Business School
• Rebecca Unsworth, Director of Professional Affairs, The Textile Institute
We will also be showcasing the latest developments in fashion technology including examples of how smart fabrics can be used within the design process, providing guests with the opportunity to have their body scanned to understand sizing and the relationship this has to body perception. Guests will also be able to see and hear more on the research being carried out on human rights, sustainability and the renewed growth of UK-based textiles manufacturing and how the skills needed are being supported, fostered and developed.
Registration:
Free registration and further information on the event and venue can be found at http://fashionisaforceforgood.eventbrite.co.uk