London College of Fashion are proud to team up with Success Talks to launch a new season of events. Putting a fresh spin on traditional panel conversations, the events will feature industry experts delivering short talks on new and exciting topics. Topics on the night include "How to Work With High Profile Designers and Stay Relevant Over Time" and "How to Navigate the Challenges of Getting Your Clothing Product Into Department Stores". In addition to hearing from the guests speakers, the evening will include a question and answers session and a "student spotlight" feature which will give selected individuals the opportunity to take to the stage. Speakers: Avis Charles: Philanthropist and Visionary, Avis Charles has over 40 years of experience in the fashion and textiles industry and has worked with some of the most recognisable names in fashion In 1995 Avis founded Avis Charles Associates (ACA), a fashion consultancy that specialises in product development and technical expertise. Clients include Dame Vivienne Westwood, Jonathan Saunders, Christopher Kane and Victoria Beckham. In 2004, the company developed an educational programme for design students in South African colleges and universities. ACA also formulated strategies for the Africa Fashion International (AFI)’s bi-annual fashion weeks, which are now the largest and most successful fashion weeks on the continent. In 2013, Avis was honoured as one of the WIE 50 – Women: Inspiration and Enterprise’s roll call of 50 of Europe’s most inspirational women in business and leadership. Ade Hassan: Nubian Skin was founded by 31-year-old British-born Ade Hassan. Her international upbringing across the UK, Nigeria, the Middle East and the USA has given her a global perspective, which continues to influence her today. After completing her higher education in the US and the UK, Ade entered the corporate world, and worked at various finance and consulting institutions, all the while harbouring her entrepreneurial ambitions. Thoughts are different than actions however, and comfortable with a growing pay check and an expanding collection of shoes, the idea was put on hold, until an apt reminder came in the form of a birthday card from a close friend in 2012. "It’s time to start living the life you have always imagined", so she did just that. In spring 2013 the old business plans were dusted off, domains were bought, and the Nubian Skin journey began. It has not been an easy process, but her dream is coming to fruition. To quote Ade, "My nude isn’t the nude I see in shops. Despite the reality that women of colour have the same needs as all women when it comes to lingerie and hosiery (and spend the same of their hard-earned money), the industry simply doesn’t cater to us. So, I thought, it’s time to rethink the definition of nude". Details of third speaker to be announced soon. Timings are subject to change on the night.