Students Stitch Final Thread: Record Number of Designers Enter Italian Scholarship;
Qld Businesses Flock to Support Budding Designers in Showcase Event

The Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE (MSIT) and the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) in their 6th edition of “Modaitalia”, have attracted a record number of entries to win the coveted $7,000 fashion prize. After a preliminary judging at the MSIT “Pret-a-moda” event earlier this month, the winner will receive a scholarship consisting a flight to Italy and a summer course at the world-renowned Polimoda Institute in Florence. The Modaitalia 2008 final event will be held at Old Museum Building at Herston on October 29, 2008.

The Modaitalia scholarship is a highly sort after award, and for some students their entries are 3 years in the making. Maria Maruca the CEO of ICCI says “A record 91 entries were received in 2008 which means that only 20 finalists were chosen from over 260 garments”. Only one winner will receive the scholarship with 4 runners-up’s, including two “Highly Commended” award winners. The judging panel consists of award-winning designers Elio Marzulo from Elio Moda; Pina Fiorenza from Fiorenza Collections; Zena Sciacca frmo Red Cordial and fashion agent guru Maria Lynch from Lynch Fashion Marketing.

Previous winners have come back to Australia with a unique set of skills and international experience that has attracted top Australia fashion labels including Billabong, Colorado, and Maiocchi to employ them as designers.

Modaitalia has not only caught the eye of Queensland business, but also that of car giants Ferrari, Maserati and Fiat who will be showcasing their cars at the October 29 event. Italian food icons Barilla Pasta and Lavazza Coffee are other key supporters for this big Brisbane event. Guests can also look forward to having their taste buds tantalised with mouth-watering Italian delicacies from some of Brisbane’s best Italian restaurants.

Modaitalia is an exclusive event that highlights, promotes and develops bilateral trade in the fashion and lifestyle sector. The event aims to showcase how Italy has contributed to Queensland’s lifestyle with it’s many ranges of products including design, cars, fashion and food. It is also an opportunity to recognise the endeavours of upcoming fashion designers in Queensland.

ICCI Queensland is the youngest Italian Chamber of Commerce operating in Australia. Established in 1989, it received official recognition from the Italian Government in 1995. It is part of the Assocamerestero network and works alongside 70 other Italian Chambers of Commerce in almost every country in the world.

Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE offers practical, flexible training from experienced industry professionals. With over 400 courses across ten campuses throughout south Brisbane, MSIT can help students start or advance their careers, return to the workforce or build a pathway to university or further study. MSIT offers more than just a piece of paper. They will give you the skills and knowledge to achieve your personal and career goals.

Tickets to Modaitalia 2008 can purchased from the ICCI via their website at www.icci.com.au or via the MSIT website at www.msit.tafe.qld.gov.au

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If you would like more information about this topic or to get media access to the event, please contact Maria Maruca on 0417 786 750.

If you would like photographs from the Modaitalia events, please contact Christian Bowman via email on mail@christiabowman.com