2011 DHL Fashion Export Scholarship finalists announced

The 2011 DHL Fashion Export Scholarship finalists have been announced

DHL - the world's leading logistics company - is behind this exciting comp, and has just announced the three talented finalists of the annual DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship.

In its second year, the Scholarship aims to identify Australia’s emerging fashion talent and assist them in achieving international business growth.

The 2011 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship finalists are:

Evening wear fave, Rachel Gilbert:

“Rachel has shown a strong brand presence within just a few years. This bright young talent is the one to watch and has a huge future ahead of her,” said Lucia Labbate from IMG Fashion.

We Are Handsome, by designers Indrha Chagoury and Jeremy Somers:

“Indrha and Jeremy have an impressive export strategy backed up by unique prints and designs,” said Jamila Dlala, Global Multi-National Customer Manager from DHL Express Australia.

And Ellery designer, Kym Ellery:

“Ellery’s designs are absolutely impeccable and beautifully crafted. She has the persistence and attitude to last in this competitive industry,” said Nicola Finetti, one of Australia’s brilliant fashion designers.

The comp is judged by the three identies above - Jamila, Lucia, and Nicola - and the Scholarship received a number of high calibre entries proving there is an emerging talent pool of Australian designers that have the business acumen to succeed overseas.

“We looked at the key categories of design, marketing, business and export and were incredibly impressed by these three talented designers. Not only do they have a unique and creative flair for design, they have a strong business sense and direction to cement themselves in both the domestic and international markets,” said Jamila.

The 2011 DHL Fashion Export Scholarship is open to Australian fashion exporters who have been exporting for less than four years. The winner will receive a tailored export mentoring program and international freight to the value of $10,000 from DHL Express.

DHL is also the official logistics partner of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, and has been committed to Australia’s fashion industry and helping designers achieve international success for eons.

Today, DHL's international network links more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, and offers exceptional expertise in express, air and ocean freight, overland transport, contract logistics solutions as well as international mail services.

Last year's DHL Fashion Export Scholarship winners, Australian fashion label Bec & Bridge, has already captured the attention of global buyers including international online store Shopbop. Their current Autumn/Winter collection has been worn by Hilary Duff, Nicky Hilton and Hellcats star Heather Hemmens.

The winner of the 2011 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship will be announced late July.