Global logistics company DHL has awarded Australian designer Johnny Schembri the 2015 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship to develop his label By Johnny.
Schembri will receive $10,000 worth of international freight, mentorship from IMG and DHL Express and a trip to New York Fashion Week as part of the award.
The designer impressed the domestic industry after presenting a limited edition 'Shop the Runway' collection during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia (MBFWA) earlier this year.
He has also made waves in the international market dressing figures such as Jennifer Hawkins, Katy Perry and Gigi Hadid.
The award comes as Schembri and his team are working on developing By Johnny's e-commerce platform to offer a key access point for international audiences and offering competitive rates and shopping options.
Previous winners of the scholarship include Michael Lo Sordo, We Are Handsome and Bec and Bridge.
Schembri said he is overwhelmed by the announcement.
“Over the last six years I’ve worked so hard with my team to create a strong foundation in the Australian marketplace –and I am so grateful to the local buyers, stockists, and supporters here for making it all possible –but I am beyond excited to be given this stepping stone to the global market by DHL Express and IMG Fashion.
“I can’t wait to start working with them to take By Johnny from the streets of Sydney and Melbourne to the footpaths of New York and LA.”
DHL Express Oceania senior vice president Gary Edstein believes Schembri is a worthy recipient of the scholarship.
“We believe this is a fantastic opportunity for By Johnny and we’re proud to add the label to what has become an illustrious list of Scholarship winners.
“We are excited to see how the DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship will help Johnny realize the international exporting potential of his brand.
“The trip to New York to attend the DHL Exported show is sure to inspire him to grow his business and we look forward to being a part of that process.”