Aaliyah Bhana
Inspired by her South Asian heritage, Aaliyah Bhana chose the BTEC National Diploma in Fashion and Footwear at Leicester College for its practical focus. She enjoyed hands-on projects like the V&A Museum visit and a sustainability project with George at Asda. Her final project was a wedding dress inspired by her grandparents’ love story. She plans to study Fashion Buying and Marketing at De Montfort University.
Using fashion as an inspiration
“Growing up a south Asian woman, I saw lots of older women using sewing and designing clothes as a way of keeping busy. That sparked my interest in clothes and fashion. And as a young Muslim woman, I saw how creating new fashions could be an inspiration for younger generations,” says Aaliyah Bhana.
‘A space to get creative’
Aaliyah continues: “I didn’t want to take A Levels as I hated exams. That’s why I started to look at BTEC courses – there are no exams and they give you the space to thrive and get creative.
“After researching fashion courses and attending open days, I met students and teachers at Leicester College and really enjoyed it. So, I applied to take the BTEC National Diploma Fashion and Footwear.”
Course brings out new skills and expertise
“During the course, we visited the V&A Museum in London which was amazing and brought us closer together as a group. The sustainability project with George at Asda where we created and marketed an outfit was so much fun,” adds Aaliyah.
“I tend to like to do things in my own way, but have really learned how to work effectively in a team dynamic.
“The amount of skills that we’ve learned is incredible – from using domestic and industrial sewing machines, through to a workshop dedicated to footwear.
“I would 100% recommend the course and Leicester College - the teachers push you to be the best and the memories that I’ve made have been incredible.”
Bringing a love story to life
Aaliyah explains: “For my end of year fashion show, I took inspiration from my grandparents. They had an incredible love story where, located separately in England and India, they actually got married over the phone! Thinking of this, I created a wedding dress that my grandma would have worn on her wedding day.”
Looking to the future
“During my work experience, I got involved with marketing and buying with a big local company and really enjoyed that time. Consequently, I’m now looking to start a degree in Fashion Buying and Marketing at De Montfort University.”
