IMG has officially opened applications for its newly launched initiative Project NextGen.
An evolution of the long-running New Generation show, the project will offer up to six emerging designers: a fully funded runway show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia (MBFWA); a 12-month mentoring program with a St. George business advisor; industry networking opportunities; access to buyers at MBFWA; and marketing support to reach audiences.
The New Generation show has run alongside MBFWA since 1996 and has helped launched the careers of prolific Australian designers including Sass & Bide, Gorman and Akira Isogawa.
The six designers will be selected by a judging panel to showcase their designs on the St. George NextGen runway show at MBFWA in May 2016.
The panel includes Vogue Australia editor-in-chief Edwina McCann, Harper's Bazaar Australia editor-in-chief Kellie Hush, mytheresa.com buying director Justin O'Shea, Ellery and Ten Pieces general manager Chris Buchanan, Parlour X director and buyer Eva Galambos and IMG Fashion director Emily Weight.
Weight said this is the first time that the industry will adopt this approach in supporting emerging designers.
“For the first time, an influential panel of fashion industry experts will review the applicants based on the exceptional talent designers have demonstrated thus far, and their promise to succeed as part of Project NextGen.”
“As the local industry evolves and becomes increasingly global, it’s important to embrace industry knowledge and foster new talent ensuring the very best young creatives are properly mentored and presented to the international fashion community.”
Buchanan believes an intensive mentoring experience could give young designers the boost needed to take on the domestic and international market.
“Having the good fortune of experience, I believe we have an obligation to guide, assist and nurture emerging talent.
“If there is one thing I know about Australia, it’s that we’re not short on talent; and programs like NextGen play an important role in the commercialisation of creativity & further develop the industry as a whole.”
Applicants can apply for Project NextGen through the MBFWA website with selected designers set to be announced in February 2016.