You may be a strong designer, but if you’re not knowledgeable on running a business, you will not last in the industry.
This was the strong message to emerging designers by Pacific Runway Fashion director, Failepou Peni, during her visit last week, as guest to the inaugural PNG Fashion Week.
With 35 years of experience up her sleeve in the fashion industry, Ms Peni knew enough, to advice participants of the three day workshop staged by PNGFW.
Peni and the local women identified non-accessibility to many things including market platform and quality materials as a common hindrance.
In this regard, she stressed on online marketing as the perfect platform to do business.
“I know most can’t afford and lack knowledge of the online platform but this is where it all happens.
“One of the things that I strongly believe is that, we may be a strong designer but we’re not knowledgeable on running a business, we will not last in the industry,” she said.
She also encouraged the designers to participate in fashion events such the PNG fashion week, where they have the opportunity to meet buyers and grow their connections.
“Believe it or not, there’ll be many letdowns but you just got to never give up.”