A NORTH East graduate named as one of the top young designers in the country is headed to Asia to pursue a career forecasting the future of fabrics.
Former Cleveland College of Art & Design student Helen Williams, of Hartlepool, will be jetting off to Mumbai, India, to work with one of the country’s top interior design companies supplying soft fabrics and furnishings to high-end retailers across the UK.
Helen, 22, who was awarded first runner up prize at the British Interior Textiles Association (Bita) Emerging Talent Awards, will be using knowledge gained on her BA surface and textile course at CCAD’s Hartlepool campus, to produce trend boards and forecast fabric designs for the company’s website and communication forums.
“This is an incredible opportunity,” said Helen. “I’ve always wanted to work in the interior design industry and to be able to do that in India is a dream come true.”
Helen, who heard about the position through contacts made at the British Interior Textiles Association awards, is about to fly out to India where she will be working in daily temperatures exceeding 40 degrees.
“I currently still live at home with my parents so going to India will be a complete culture change,” said Helen.
“I know that it will involve working long hours but I feel prepared for that after having put so much dedication and effort into my work at CCAD.
“I’ve already been in contact with some of the people I’m going to be working and house sharing with and I’m really excited.”
Helen, who is sponsored by UK company British Loose Leaf, manufacturers of binders and presentation products, credits her college and tutors with giving her the confidence to work on an international stage.
“My time at CCAD has been incredible,” added Helen. “During my three years I’ve met loads of different people from different backgrounds and we’ve all been able to help each other along the way.
“The tutors here are so talented and give you the space to work independently but always with full support and the facilities are amazing.
“I’m hoping that the skills I’ve learned here and the experience I’ll gain in India will stand me in good stead for a long career in the interior design industry.”
For more information on opportunities at CCAD contact (01642) 288888 or log on to www.ccad.ac.uk.