Supporting the next generation of creative talent with the Manolo Blahnik Scholarships
- Written byS Cheevers
- Published date 22 October 2025
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The Manolo Blahnik Foundation, launched in 2022, aims to make a meaningful difference to students studying in creative industries. The Manolo Blahnik Scholarship is designed to support students studying at London College of Fashion (LCF), UAL’s School of Design and Technology, ensuring financial barriers do not stand in the way of creative excellence. This partnership exemplifies LCF’s commitment to widening participation and increasing accessibility.
LCF is proud to announce this year’s scholarship recipients: Jayden Strong, studying BA (Hons) Cordwainers Footwear, and Nandika Kanoria, studying BA (Hons) Fashion Textiles: Print. We recently caught up Jayden and Nandika to hear about their journeys, motivations, and how the scholarship will impact their lives and studies.
How did you learn about the scholarship and apply?
Jayden: I first learned about the scholarship through an email I received from LCF. For my application, I curated a portfolio that showcased a range of work, highlighting my design process and creative journey. I also prepared a short presentation for the interview to demonstrate my vision, interests, and deep passion for footwear design.
Nandika: I learned about the scholarship directly from LCF. The values and creative legacy behind the scholarship immediately resonated with me, particularly its focus on craftsmanship, individuality, and innovation in design. Motivated by this alignment with my own creative goals, I submitted a portfolio that reflected both my technical skills and conceptual development. Alongside this, I prepared a personal statement that highlighted my passion for textiles, my long-term vision, and how the scholarship would support my journey as a designer.
How will the scholarship provide you with support throughout your undergraduate studies?
Jayden: The scholarship provides crucial support for both tuition and living expenses, which allows me to engage with my studies without the added stress of financial concerns, especially covering travel costs to and from classes. Since receiving the scholarship, I had the opportunity to visit the Manolo Blahnik office, where I met Kristina Blahnik and members of the team. This was a hugely informative experience that gave me a deeper understanding of the industry and their creative process.
Nandika: As a passionate and determined design aspirant from India, the scholarship will aid my creative journey, despite limited disposable income. It opens doors to global collaborations, mentorship from leading textile innovators, and the chance to experiment with advanced print technologies. This support allows me to become a changemaker by using textile design to bridge tradition and the future.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey, inspiration, and why you want to study at LCF?
Jayden: I began exploring footwear while in my first year at college and worked to develop my skills as much as possible while I was there. I chose to come to LCF as I thought it was the best place for me to continue developing my passion and knowledge for the construction of footwear.
My biggest sources of inspiration vary all the time. Sometimes a small, unnoticeable detail of everyday life will inspire a big idea, whereas other times I'm inspired by a painting or sculpture in a gallery.
Studying at LCF allows me to learn from experienced practitioners, collaborate with other creatives, and push myself in an environment that values innovation and craftsmanship.
Nandika: It was the rhythmic sound of my grandmother's sewing machine that ignited my interest in design. Huddled around her, I watched in awe as she turned simple pieces of cloth into vibrant garments adorned with intricate embroidery. Each stitch seemed to carry a story, sparking a curiosity that would lay the foundation of my creative journey. At 12, when my grandmother gave me a sewing kit, I created my first embroidered top, marking a key moment that defined my passion for textile design.
I chose BA (Hons) Fashion Textiles: Print at LCF because it combines technical excellence with conceptual depth. The course offers a strong mix of hand and digital processes, encourages individual designer identity, and addresses current themes like sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical practice which excites me the most. I am particularly excited about the opportunities to learn from experienced faculty, access cutting-edge facilities, and engage in industry collaborations.
My motivation is rooted in Indian heritage and a desire to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary fashion. Growing up surrounded by vibrant textiles, hand-embroidered garments, and the rich visual language of Indian culture, I have developed a deep fascination with fabric as a medium of storytelling. Fabric is not merely a medium for visual expression; it embodies cultural narratives, historical memory, and material identity. I often work on themes that are universal yet deeply personal.
What are you most excited about over the next 3 years?
Jayden: Over the next 3 years, I’m most excited about immersing myself fully in the creative and technical environment that LCF provides. Having the space to explore, experiment, and refine my craft is something I deeply value. I’m particularly looking forward to developing new technical skills, such as advanced leatherwork and heel construction, that will help push my current skillset to its limit.
I’m excited about the opportunity to take part in live projects, industry placements, and competitions, where I can test my ideas in real-world contexts and gain feedback from professionals in the field. Meeting and learning from other creatives, whether in footwear or across disciplines, will be a huge part of that growth.
I want to leave LCF not only with refined technical skills but with creative clarity to make a lasting impact in the world of footwear.
Nandika: This opportunity marks a significant step towards deepening my creative practice and developing a sturdy foundation in both traditional and innovative textile techniques. I look forward to exploring diverse and sustainable material processes, collaborating with a global network of forward-thinking creatives, and learning from industry-leading professionals. Being part of such a prestigious institution inspires me to push boundaries, refine my design voice, and contribute meaningfully to the future of fashion.
Over the next 3 years, I am most excited to immerse myself in an environment that celebrates creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. Most of all, I am excited to grow not only as a designer but also as a thoughtful contributor to the global fashion landscape.
My goal is to continue developing my skills in sustainable design, leveraging the innovative approaches and resources of British design education. I see my future as a designer who not only creates beautiful garments but also drives meaningful change in the fashion industry through sustainable and thoughtful design practices.
The partnership between LCF and The Manolo Blahnik Foundation reaffirms LCF’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers, ensuring that access to world-class education is available to those with talent and vision, regardless of financial background. With plans to expand the scholarship across other courses within LCF’s School of Design and Technology, this initiative serves as a benchmark for future partnerships that aim to support and elevate emerging creative talent.
- Read more LCF Stories
- Read more about the Manolo Scholarships
- Find out more about BA (Hons) Cordwainers Footwear
- Find out more about BA Fashion Textiles: Print