Transformers ED Gathered Students, Recent Graduates and the Industry in Istanbul
As Transformers Foundation aims to create a more sustainable denim industry, one of its key pillars of action is educational outreach.
The organization’s Transformers ED series, launched in 2018, has brought educational events to institutions such as colleges in global destinations ranging from Mexico and Brazil to Pakistan and Hong Kong. Most recently, the event touched down in Türkiye at Istanbul Nisantasi Üniversitesi, which has programs in textile and fashion design.
Attendees ranged from mills, brands, innovators and educators, giving the industry’s next generation access to forge connections with all parts of the denim supply chain. In addition to students, those early in their careers turned up to get up to speed on the denim sector.
The conference program focused on education and innovation. Early in the day, the audience got a crash course in Denim 101, which included terminology and brand histories. Lenzing’s Tuncay Kilickan spoke on a panel about fiber innovation, including circularity.
Taking a local lens, some of the topics looked specifically at Turkiye. One delved in the nation’s work to create textile recycling systems, while another explored the country’s textile heritage.
Also on the agenda were discussions of branding, such as a session led by Neil Bell on how to build a brand—including product development and the relationships between labels and producers. Another saw Turkish denim brand Colin’s take the stage to talk about its brand strategy and business models.
After the main sessions, the event hosted a half-hour networking experience. Representatives from different parts of the supply chain were posted up at tables, and attendees could visit to ask them anything.
The half-day event—which was sponsored by Ereks Blue Matters and Lycra—wrapped up with the signing of an agreement between Transformers ED and Istanbul Nisantasi Üniversitesi.
Educational outreach is a critical activity in ensuring that the denim industry continues to have a talent pipeline. For ESG-focused initiatives like Transformers Foundation, this engagement also prepares and informs students to address sustainability in their future companies’ operations, helping to push environmental and social responsibility forward.