Manolo Blahnik Launches Scholarship at University of the Arts London’s London College of Fashion

LONDON — Manolo Blahnik is putting its good foot forward with the launch of the Manolo Blahnik Scholarship at the University of the Arts London’s London College of Fashion.

The luxury brand will be supporting students in their studies to ensure that “financial barriers do not stand in the way of creative excellence,” said the brand.

The scholarship will be awarded to a first-year student on the BA (Hons) Cordwainers Footwear course to encourage innovation and craftsmanship. The award is open to students based in the U.K., as well as those from international backgrounds.

The scholarship covers three years of study and includes an annual contribution toward living expenses.

“This scholarship is an extraordinary opportunity for talented students who may otherwise face financial barriers in pursuing their creative ambitions. It is also a significant step towards widening participation and ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives continue to shape the future of heritage crafts,” said Claudine Rousseau, dean of school of design and technology at London College of Fashion.

Georgina Goodman, course leader for BA (Hons) Cordwainers Footwear, added that the “opportunity to study without financial constraints allows them to fully embrace their craft and push the boundaries of innovation in footwear and their own creative potential.”

In 2022, the footwear brand launched the Manolo Blahnik Foundation with a mission to better “mental health and well-being, animal welfare, and supporting new generations in the arts,” according to the company.

“The reason I wanted to start The Manolo Blahnik Foundation is to help people. The UAL scholarship focuses on supporting talented creatives to ensure the future of innovative, high-quality craftsmanship and to ensure it remains at the heart of the fashion industry,” said Manolo Blahnik, founder of the brand and a trustee of the foundation. 

Kristina Blahnik, chief executive officer of Manolo Blahnik and a trustee of the Manolo Blahnik Foundation, said that supporting “the next generation of creatives has been a lifelong dream, and to do so through the exceptional framework of UAL is a truly rewarding and fulfilling opportunity.”