UAL Alumni summit – Guangzhou 2024

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The first-ever UAL Alumni Summit is set to take place in Guangzhou on December 6 and 7, 2024, uniting graduates from across China for a weekend of celebrations and meaningful discussions.

In collaboration with Trendy Group, the summit will be hosted at their headquarters in Guangzhou. Rathna Ramanathan, the Head of Central Saint Martins, is eager to greet attendees and share updates from UAL.

This gathering presents an excellent opportunity for alumni to reconnect and engage with each other.

Alumni expert panel bios:

Masha Ma

Masha Ma is a notable Chinese fashion designer who launched her own label in 2008 and is recognized for her avant-garde style. With a dual base in Shanghai and Paris, her collections can be seen at Paris Fashion Week and have captured the attention of esteemed boutiques including Spiga 2 in Milan and Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong.

In 2012, she was highlighted as a talent by Vogue China and Yoox.com, showcasing her work through their platform. She also participated in the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund China Exchange program, learning about the American fashion industry.

A Central Saint Martins graduate with an MA in womenswear, Masha interned with renowned designers like Veronique Branquinho and Alexander McQueen. Her graduate collection was featured during London Fashion Week and acquired by a popular fashion retail store.

Her accolades include being a finalist in numerous competitions such as the Lancôme Colour Designs Award and the Chloé design competition. In 2009, she earned the ‘Mouse Ji Best International Innovation Award’ at the CCDC China Contemporary Design Contest.

YY

Yuan Yuan Jin founded YYO COMMUNICATIONS in Shanghai, a prominent creative boutique known for its global perspective within the fashion industry.

Founded in 2007, YYO specializes in artist management and creative photo production, establishing robust networks with top visual artist agencies and production houses worldwide. Since 2014, YYO has been a strategic partner with Shanghai Fashion Week and launched YYO Foundation to nurture young creative talents in the fashion sector.

Yuan Yuan also oversees E.SCAPE art space in Shanghai and co-founded the acclaimed nightclub System. Additionally, she has been active in the cultural committee at the British Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai since 2023.

Yuan Yuan is an alumna of the London College of Fashion.

Yuan Zhou (Butter)

Based in Shenzhen, Yuan Zhou is an artist influenced by primitivism and trend culture, utilizing ceramics and painting to introduce emoji-like elements into his art, creating a whimsical and surreal atmosphere. His works have been showcased throughout China, and he has a background in interior design.

Yuan Zhou studied at Chelsea College of Arts.

Terry Xu

Having experienced life in both London and Hong Kong, Terry Xu brings a unique cultural perspective. After earning a psychology degree from King’s College, Terry briefly entered the finance sector with Morgan Stanley before shifting to focus on fashion. He completed an MA in Innovation Management at CSM, examining sustainability in denim fabrics. Terry currently serves as the marketing director for Miss Sixty.