Tory Burch talks about #EmbraceAmbition, sexism, female empowerment, and social responsibility at SCAD Hong Kong
The famed America fashion icon was in town to chat with design students about social responsibility and the importance of female empowerment
Tory Burch (4th from left) inspires at the SCAD talk. Tory Burch has built a fashion empire valued at over US$3.5 billion (HK$27.4 billion), since launching her self-titled brand in 2004.
Burch was in Hong Kong recently and met with young students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where she spoke about ambition, her brand’s commitment to social responsibility and the importance of female empowerment.
“It was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I think she is an incredible businesswoman and designer, who has the ability to change the narrative for women in the design industry,” said Jeng Yiu-chan, a student at SCAD.
“Even though having a related academic background is important, we can pursue any path if we put our minds to it.”
Nikita Mitla, another student that attended the talk said, “I left the talk feeling motivated and inspired,” adding, “she made me understand the full-circle approach to design. It is so multi-dimensional and it is every little detail that truly counts.”
The students had the unique opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with Tory Burch, where she stressed the importance of addressing the double standards that exists when it comes to ambition. "It is often seen as a positive trait in men, but a negative trait in women," said Burch. The Tory Burch Foundation's global #EmbraceAmbition campaign encourages women to change this harmful stigma.
“Overall, just to hear about her exceptional career is a true motivator for striving fashion professionals, like myself,” added Mitla.