Intent: The brief from Unloc with Burberry’s approval was both bold and relevant: design a sustainable clothing range that aligns with Burberry’s branding and marketing style, launching it through an immersive retail experience that stands out in the luxury fashion sector. Students were also tasked with embedding at least two key sustainability messages aligned with the 2035 global goals, ensuring their concept was more than just stylish — it needed to be impactful.

Implementation: Over four immersive sessions, a dedicated group of students stepped beyond the classroom and into the world of high fashion, sustainability, and business strategy. 

Students met with Unloc to receive a professional design brief and discuss initial ideas.

The focus shifted to brainstorming product ranges, refining sustainability messages, and testing viability and meeting guest speakers from Burberry, who inspired the students with their career journeys.

Teams worked on their business models, visuals, and perfected their pitch presentations.

The final presentation was in front of Burberry employees at the Verizon headquarters in London, where students revealed their unique concepts and showcased their creativity, confidence, and commercial awareness.

Impact: Throughout the challenge, students had the rare opportunity to meet and network with Burberry employees — from marketing experts to tech innovators — gaining real-world insights into the complexities of the fashion industry.

“The people who we were presenting to were the sweetest, the tech area was incredible. I was so impressed at the complexity of the equipment. I got inside information about different career paths,” said one student.

“Just being in the presence of Burberry members and talking to them was an amazing experience. I got a feel of how complex business planning is too.”

The experience was more than educational — it was transformative. Students discovered how to collaborate under pressure, adapt ideas to fit brand guidelines, and communicate with confidence.

“The whole planning tested my teamwork and leadership skills,” one student reflected. “I have learnt how to become successful from the people we were presenting to.”

Growing in Confidence and Skills

One of the most powerful outcomes of the challenge was the personal growth students experienced, particularly around communication.

“I learnt how to give a presentation and project my voice to an audience. I got over my fear of public speaking and I learnt that it’s not that bad,” shared a student proudly.

This initiative not only ignited entrepreneurial thinking but also empowered students with the belief that they can thrive in professional, high-pressure environments. Their sustainable fashion concepts demonstrated a keen awareness of branding, social impact, and innovation — exactly the skills the next generation of leaders will need.