We are delighted to share that Pranya Varakantham (Lower Sixth) has been awarded Runner Up in the Graduate Fashion Foundation Young Talent of Tomorrow Competition.

The Graduate Fashion Foundation is a national organisation that supports and champions emerging fashion talent across the UK, helping young creatives take their first steps into the industry. The Young Talent of Tomorrow Fashion Design Competition 2026 invited students aged 11–18 to design two fashion looks in response to the brief Delve into the Archive, with entries received from across the UK.

Pranya reflected on this achievement: “Taking part in such a competitive brief allowed me to work at an industry-facing level, testing my creativity, research skills and ability to clearly communicate ideas. Being involved in a nationwide competition like this helped me understand the standards and expectations of the fashion sector while pushing me to challenge myself creatively.

“For the theme Delve into the Archive, I chose to explore the work of GFF Ambassador Ashish Gupta, focusing on his Spring/Summer 2017 collection. I approached his archive as more than visual inspiration, using it to explore themes of migration, identity and the cultural value of craftsmanship. My research highlighted the often-overlooked contribution of Indian artisans to global fashion, drawing from traditional embroidery, symbolic motifs and temple-inspired colour palettes. I then designed two complete outfits, considering both front and back views to fully present the concept. By combining traditional references with structured Western silhouettes and supporting my work with clear annotation, I was able to clearly communicate my ideas and design process, which contributed to being awarded runner-up.

“This achievement has opened up exciting opportunities that will support my ambition to enter the fashion sector. I won a workshop at the Whitechapel Gallery, where I will learn to use CAD for fashion, AI-supported design tools and digital programmes currently used by brands in the industry. I have also been invited to the Graduate Fashion Week closing party and gala, where my work will be recognised on stage, as well as receiving my framed work and a fashion starter pack in a GFW26 tote bag. Experiences like this are invaluable as they provide exposure, skill development and confidence, helping me take meaningful steps towards a future career in fashion.”

As part of the prize, Pranya, along with Textiles teacher Mrs Maughan, has been invited to attend an in-person workshop at the Whitechapel Gallery on Friday 20th February 2026, focusing on CAD for fashion and the use of AI and digital programmes currently used by brands in the industry.

Find out more about the competition here.