Amina Ghali, Head Designer at Azza Fahmy, credits the British Council with changing her family’s life, opening doors for her and her mother to gain invaluable design experience in the UK.
Amina won the British Council’s Young Creative Entrepreneur Award in 2012. The prize gave her a unique opportunity to immerse herself in the vibrant design ecosystem of the UK.
She followed in the footsteps of her mother, the founder of renowned jewellery designers Azza Fahmy, who received a British Council scholarship to study jewellery craft at the City of London Polytechnic in the 1970s.
Having joined Azza Fahmy at a young age, Amina was eager yet inexperienced in the industry. The exposure she received because of the award was instrumental in her professional development.
Surrounded by like-minded peers and prominent designers such as Sir Paul Smith, she built her knowledge of design, online marketing and industry challenges.
‘This experience was a turning point for Amina,’ a colleague recalls. ‘It equipped her with the confidence and skills needed to excel in a competitive field.’
One of the most significant outcomes of Amina’s experience was her collaboration with Lucy Norris, now the founder of SecondHand Styling. Their partnership flourished, as Amina drew inspiration from Lucy’s innovative approach to design and sustainability. This relationship not only enriched Amina’s creative process but also reaffirmed her commitment to evolving Azza Fahmy’s offer.
Amina’s journey with the British Council has instilled in her a passion for continuous growth and innovation in design. As she looks to the future, she remains dedicated to exploring new ideas and refining her skills, ensuring that Azza Fahmy continues to thrive in the ever-evolving jewellery landscape.
‘Winning the British Council's Young Creative Entrepreneur Award in 2012 truly changed my life. It opened doors to connect with global designers and industry experts, shaping my journey in jewellery design.’ Amina Ghali, Head Designer, Azza Fahmy