Hello Womeniya South India News Desk :
International Women’s Day is a day to recognize how far we have come towards gender equality, and also how far we have left to go. We have come a long way. There was a time when women couldn’t vote, we’re now leading countries. As a woman, as an artist and as an educator, nothing brings more joy to me than seeing my students do well.
Mrs. Rukmini Kariappa, Trustee, Vogue Institute of Art & Design speaks about what IWD means to her, her vision, mission and dreams in an exclusive interview with Hello Womeniya on the occasion of Women’s Day.
Here are the excerpts of the interview:
Hello Womeniya: What is your fashion/ style mantra?
Rukmini Kariappa: Fashion is something to express yourself about what you are. I believe fashion should not only make you look good but also make you happy. I believe right accessories like footwear, fashion jewellery, watch, apparel accessories, head accessories all plays crucial look in giving you complete look to your ensemble.
Hello Womeniya: What do you love about your work?
Rukmini Kariappa: Being an artist and educator we have the privilege to mould a student’s life. I believe nothing brings more joy than seeing your students doing well for themselves. Having an opportunity to fostering creativity, transforming lives, fulfilling potential are some of the key areas I love about my work.
Hello Womeniya: As a woman who is the trustee of a fashion institute, tell us about the challenges you faced?
Rukmini Kariappa: Vogue was established 26 years ago. During the nascent years, design education has been niche with only a handful of institutes offering design related courses in India. However, design education has mushroomed over the past 5-8 years making it a worthwhile career option. The outbreak of the global pandemic, Covid-19, has impacted higher education across the globe. But we have been quick to adopt innovative ways to continue developing the standards through a hybrid system including both online and offline modes of teaching.
Hello Womeniya: The last 2 years have been trying for every professional. How did you manage a balance between your office work and personal life?
Rukmini Kariappa: Work- personal life balance is an integral part for any professional. My husband and children have been a tremendous support in encouraging me to do what I’m passionate about.
Hello Womeniya: What are the new age career options related to fashion industry?
Rukmini Kariappa: Some of the new age career options are fashion buying, fashion styling, data analysts, Content writing, fashion PR Specialists, Graphic designers, Illustrators etc.
Hello Womeniya: What according to you is International Women’s Day?
Rukmini Kariappa: International Women’s Day is a day to recognize how far we have come towards gender equality, and also how far we have left to go. We have come a long way. There was a time when women couldn’t vote, we’re now leading countries.
In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women for their economic, political and social achievements.
Hello Womeniya: What advice would you give to a young girl or woman aspiring to join fashion education/ industry?
Rukmini Kariappa: The fashion industry has evolved over the years and has a lot of potential for a young girl/ woman to make a career in it. I would advise them to get inspired, study fashion trends, hone your signature style, work on improving your artistic ability and creativity, and most of all have confidence in yourself.