Central Coast fashion student Phoenicia Mawad is set to depart in September for the Big Apple.
The National Fashion College student will attend New York Fashion Week and going behind the scenes of one of the biggest cultural events in the world.
Mawad, 19, said she had always enjoyed the rich history of fashion and the impact it has had on the world.
“(Things such as) the endless possibilities of a simple pair of denim jeans have always excited me,” she said.
“During my final years of high school I had noticed that I kept gravitating towards the thrilling world of fashion from my small corner of the Central Coast.
“After discovering the National Fashion College, it didn’t take me long to realise that I wanted to pursue a career in fashion.
“The college has equipped me with a vast network of amazing people in the industry and as I continue my studies I am constantly meeting new people, learning and gaining new experience.
“Three weeks into my studies at NFC I was part of the biggest Australian fashion event of the year.
“Appointed Assistant Model Co-ordinator of my own area at Fashion Week I was straight into the world of runways, models and so much hairspray.
“During my fourth week at NFC I landed my dream internship at Vogue Magazine.
“The hustle and bustle of the city is a drastically different atmosphere to the calmness of the Central Coast but I look forward to the commotion; for me, it’s exciting.
“I have also worked on other runways, castings and photo shoots.”
Mawad said she was most looking forward to seeing the industry on such a large scale.
“I’ve never been to New York so I am also really excited to see if it’s the same as it’s portrayed in movies and shows,” she said.
“I know that this experience is invaluable.
“Since beginning my studies in May I have hit the ground running and going to New York is no exception.
“I look forward to meeting like-minded people and hopefully making some genuine connections in the industry that will last a lifetime.
“Seeing the city of New York turn into a fashion playground for a week is something that I know will open a whole new world for me … that will forever impact the way I view fashion and the endless possibilities for my future.”