Manolo Blahnik launches scholarship at London College of Fashion

Luxury footwear brand Manolo Blahnik has launched a new scholarship at the London College of Fashion – part of University of the Arts London (UAL) - to support emerging talent in design and craftsmanship.

The scholarship, established through a multi-year commitment from the Manolo Blahnik Foundation, is designed to support students studying at LCF’s School of Design and Technology, "ensuring financial barriers do not stand in the way of creative excellence".

Manolo Blahnik, founder of Manolo Blahnik and Trustee of Manolo Blahnik Foundation, said: "The reason I wanted to start the Manolo Blahnik Foundation is to help people. The UAL scholarship focusses on supporting talented creatives to ensure the future of innovative, high quality craftsmanship and to ensure it remains at the heart of the fashion industry."

A first year student on the BA undergraduate (Hons) Cordwainers Footwear course has been awarded as the inaugural recipient of the scholarship, which is open to students based in the UK and also from international backgrounds.

Recipients will gain full tuition support along with an annual contribution towards living expenses and course costs for the duration of their three years of study, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in their creative education.

Kristina Blahnik, CEO at Manolo Blahnik and Trustee of Manolo Blahnik Foundation, said: "UAL is one of the world’s leading multi-disciplinary creative universities, and to be able to help remove financial barriers for both UK and international students marks an incredibly proud moment for the Manolo Blahnik Foundation and our family.

"Supporting the next generation of creatives has been a lifelong dream, and to do so through the exceptional framework of UAL is a truly rewarding and fulfilling opportunity."

Claudine Rousseau, Dean of School of Design and Technology at London College of Fashion, UAL, added: "We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Manolo Blahnik Foundation. This scholarship is an extraordinary opportunity for talented students who may otherwise face financial barriers in pursuing their creative ambitions.

"It is also a significant step towards widening participation and ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives continue to shape the future of heritage crafts."