LVMH Grand Prix Scholarships 2013

What do Phoebe Philo (Céline), Riccardo Tisci (Givenchy) and Kim Jones (Louis Vuitton) all have in common? Prior to joining the LVMH Group they all studied at the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London, renowned around the world for the inventiveness of its students, teachers and graduates.

LVMH has since 2011 awarded scholarships to three design students in the final year of their BA fashion design course. Chosen for their skill and motivation, the recipients receive a scholarship covering all tuition fees, enabling them to focus their full energies during this all-important year. Through this program the Group directly supports the growth of tomorrow’s talents.

This year’s recipients are Daniele Toneatti of Italy (BA Fashion Menswear), Ayaka Sakurai of Japan (BA Textile Design), and Richard Malone of Ireland (BA Fashion Womenswear). In addition to this distinction recognizing the talent and potential of these students, the scholarship gives them the financial security needed to focus on creating their final year collection, a pivotal milestone in their studies and the springboard to a fruitful career.

Several previous winners in 2011 and 2012 have taken advantage of the special relationship between the Central Saint Martins and LVMH to pursue internships with Group houses. This enriching experience brings them an invaluable initial boost.  Chantal Gaemperle, Group Executive Vice President, Human Resources and Synergies, said: “This scholarship program is making a real contribution, with previously selected graduates now successfully managing their early careers. This year’s designated students will certainly follow in the steps of their predecessors. Congratulations for the quality and the creativity of their submissions!”

The announcement of this year’s scholarships follows the recent launch of the  LVMH Young Fashion Designer Prize, further expanding the Group’s commitment to supporting the creative talents of tomorrow.