Fashion Design student gains industry experience at New Balance through Weavers’ x UKFT Bursary programme
16/04/2025
Angelina Dimitrakos, a second year BA Fashion Design student at Nottingham Trent University, completed an internship with footwear and apparel brand New Balance, supported by the Weavers’ x UKFT Bursary programme.
Angelina completed 12-weeks internship as a Footwear Design Intern at New Balance, where she gained valuable insights into the footwear industry and the professional environment.
Angelina said:
‘‘Having no previous experience of footwear design, this internship has deepened my understanding of the sector and its intersections with fashion and has given me a strong foundation in key aspects of commercial design. I’ve learned how roles within the fashion industry interconnect, how to represent a brand’s values, how to work with clients and the dynamics of working within a team toward a shared goal. These lessons have fueled my passion for the field, reinforcing the essential role an internship plays at this early stage of my career.’’
Following her internship, Angelina feels significantly more confident in the skills she developed, which she plans to carry into her final year.
‘‘My primary role in designing New Balance’s account specific exclusives has equipped me with invaluable skills I’m excited to apply in my final year of studies and future career. This internship has strengthened my belief in the value of hands-on industry experience, as it has exposed me to essential lessons in design and professionalism.’’
She went on:
‘‘On a personal level, my internship has greatly shaped my interpersonal skills and professional growth, which I can carry forward in my career. I’ve gained confidence in presenting my proposals clearly and professionally, both to my team and to global collaborators. I feel my internship has taught me that no idea or perspective is too small, naive, or insignificant, no matter the audience.’’
‘‘My advice to anyone considering such a transformative opportunity is simple go for it! I can’t think of a single choice I’ve made that has had a more profound or positive impact on my personal and professional growth, preparing me to be the most industry ready version of myself.
Whether it’s experiencing the application process, gaining an understanding of various industry roles, or acquiring invaluable workplace insights, an internship like this is something that I would advise to anyone at this stage in their personal and professional development.’’
For someone about to take up an internship, Angelina advised:
‘‘The two key tips I would give for anyone applying would be to start early and thoroughly research roles and brands to reflect your interest, and not to ever limit yourself or narrow your expectations and opportunities. Stepping outside my comfort zone in fashion design to explore footwear design has opened my eyes to new areas in fashion, footwear, and accessories, making me more versatile and marketable over a wide range of roles in the industry.’’
”I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the support of the Weavers x UKFT Bursary that made it all possible. I’m eternally proud of my placement experience so far and of the invaluable lessons and insights I’ve gained along the way. The internship experience challenged me to grow my confidence in taking ownership of my work, even if it means making small mistakes along the way to growth and success.”
”These reflections will continue to guide me through the remainder of my placement, equipping me to return to my final year at university with a more mature and industry ready mindset. This transformative experience has only further sparked my passion for a career in the wider world of fashion, and I’m grateful for the chance to grow through such a pivotal year in the industry.”
Each year, The Worshipful Company of Weavers and UKFT offers five bursaries to talented students. These bursaries provide £1,800 to fund a 12-week internship during the summer break, offering hands-on experience and insight into the textile industry. The internship can support part of a longer industry placement or placement year, or be split across multiple placements with different businesses or organisations.
Applications are open annually from March to the end of June.
We encourage all eligible students to apply for this valuable opportunity. Contact your course tutor today and begin your application process. Find out more about the application process here.