The British Fashion Council (BFC) introduces the BFC Foundation MA Joe Casely-Hayford Scholarship, with Taya Francis named as the inaugural recipient. This scholarship honors the legacy of the late designer Joe Casely-Hayford and will be presented alongside a Special Recognition Award at The Fashion Awards 2023.
Taya Francis, a student at Nottingham Trent University, will receive support and funding through this scholarship, designed for students of black or mixed heritage backgrounds with offers from or currently pursuing an MA at a BFC Colleges Council member university.
Applicants for the scholarship were assessed based on their talent and financial circumstances, with a focus on their portfolio. A panel, which included a member of the Casely-Hayford family and industry representatives, reviewed the shortlisted applications.
Joe Casely-Hayford was a strong supporter of emerging talent, and this scholarship pays tribute to his enduring legacy and contributions to the fashion and cultural landscape, acknowledging the significant influence of black British culture on the wider creative industries in the UK.
Caroline Rush, BFC Chief, congratulated Taya Francis and expressed the organization’s excitement in launching this scholarship. She also noted that the scholarship serves as a tribute to Joe Casely-Hayford, a visionary designer who had a profound impact on London’s reputation as a global fashion and cultural hub. The posthumous Special Recognition Award will honor his unique vision, designs, and unwavering support of young fashion talent. The award ceremony will take place in December.
Joe Casely-Hayford’s career started with studies at the Tailor and Cutter Academy and later at St Martin’s School of Art. In 1984, he founded his fashion house with his wife, Maria, and in 2005, he became the creative director of Gieves and Hawkes. In 2009, he relaunched his business as Casely-Hayford in collaboration with his son, Charlie. He passed away at the age of 62 in early 2019 after battling cancer.