Air NZ, Karen Walker Foster Next Generation

Media Release
11th July 2006

Air New Zealand & Karen Walker Foster Next Generation of Fashion Designers

Air New Zealand has partnered with internationally renowned fashion designer, Karen Walker, to foster the next generation of fashion talent as part of the Air New Zealand Inspiring New Zealanders scholarship programme.

The Air New Zealand Inspiring New Zealanders in Fashion scholarship is open to students in their final year of a New Zealand tertiary fashion design qualification. The successful applicant will receive guidance, support and encouragement from Karen Walker to help further their career.

“Following the successful rollout of our Inspiring New Zealanders in Olympic Sports scholarship last year we saw an opportunity to broaden the programme to collaborate with “inspiring” New Zealanders from a range of fields,” says Air New Zealand Sponsorship Manager Jenny Simpson.

“The expansion into fashion was a natural one given our involvement in Air New Zealand Fashion Week and with Karen Walker as mentor I’m confident this scholarship will provide an unequalled opportunity for one talented design student,” she says.

Four finalists will be selected by Karen Walker following an online application process and the submission of a garment. Each finalist will be offered the opportunity to undertake one week of work experience at Karen Walker Ltd between September and December 2006.

"We didn't have programmes like this when I was starting out so I'm delighted to be involved in launching this scholarship. It's a terrific way to foster up and coming talent in the industry," says Ms Walker.

The successful scholarship recipient will be announced at the beginning of January 2007 and rewarded with a structured 12-week work experience programme designed by Karen Walker, and an international trip flying Air New Zealand.

To apply for the Air New Zealand Inspiring New Zealanders in Fashion Scholarship visit www.inspiringnewzealanders.com

About the Air New Zealand Inspiring New Zealanders scholarship programme

Inspiring New Zealanders is a scholarship programme that involves “inspiring” New Zealanders who have achieved the highest level of achievement in their field, providing inspiration and guidance to the next generation of talented New Zealanders.

The first scholarships focused on Olympic Sport and were made available in September 2005 to young athletes who are currently being mentored by Hamish Carter, Bevan Docherty, Sarah Ulmer and Claudia Riegler.

ENDS

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