Foray into high fashion gala
IACT COLLEGE has always taken pride in its unique aim of giving students real-world experience by practising project-based learning to foster out-of-classroom learning.
On Dec 2, junior students of publicity and media relations from the mass communications cohort were given the opportunity to shadow and assist their seniors in the final semester on the KL Alta Moda 2017 high fashion royal gala held at the Royale Chulan, Kuala Lumpur.
The senior students were tasked as organiser and fashion producer Dodi Mohammad’s core public relations (PR) executive team.
“KL Alta Moda gave me a different insight and appeal to fashion shows as I was not only able to witness industry professionals at work, but also work alongside them and observe how they produce an outstanding fashion show under high pressure,” said publicity and media relations student Haressh Sidharthan.
The gala was graced by Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim, HRH Prince Norodom Naravong of Cambodia and Datuk Jimmy Choo.
The presence of royalty and public figures as guests of honour also gave students an opportunity to learn about royal protocols and formal mannerisms.
“The opportunity to participate in a high-profile event like KL Alta Moda was undoubtedly a moneycan’t-buy experience for students involved,” said publicity and media relations lecturer Jonathan Yip.
“The collaboration gave the students a taste of the real-world industry, specifically in fashion PR and event management, which will hopefully assist them in choosing career paths upon graduating.”
Leading up to the main event weekend, students also undertook the roles of media liaisons, PR writers, social media managers and campaign strategists.
Their responsibilities involved applications beyond their skill set and theoretical knowledge garnered throughout the diploma course, and tested their competency to adapt swiftly and adhere to the fast-paced PR industry.
Publicity and media relations class student team leader Sarah Joy said, “It was an eye-opener for me as a junior in mass communications to organise, watch and experience this gala alongside my seniors.
“I have learnt tremendously from this experience regarding the aspects of organising a fashion event.”
Organiser Dodi highlighted that distinguished guests were convinced the students were professional executives with experience in fashion event management, which stood as a powerful testament.
Assistant team leader Hannah Goh was thankful to be a part of the industry project and further described the opportunity as an eye-opening experience to fashion PR, which also helped prepare her for her upcoming internship semester.
IACT College offers degree, diploma and foundation programmes in graphic design, advertising, mass communication, marketing, media and broadcasting.
Students interested to learn more about the programmes can drop by the IACT campus anytime from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and 9am to 5pm on weekends.
■ For more details on IACT College, call 03-7932 1936 or log on to www.iact.edu.my