In a momentous occasion, the University of Huddersfield had the distinct privilege of hosting Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on its campus during the 92nd Textile Institute World Conference (TIWC). As the president of the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) and a passionate advocate for sustainable manufacturing, Her Royal Highness joined the esteemed gathering at the Barbara Hepworth Building to address the theme of the conference: “Sustainability of the Textile and Fashion Supply Chain – Transitioning to Zero Carbon and Zero Waste.”
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal’s keen interest in the industry’s commitment to sustainability was evident as she engaged with delegates and explored the innovative strategies discussed at the conference. The University of Huddersfield’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bob Cryan, TWIC Chairman, Professor Parik Goswami, and Adam Mansell, UKFT CEO, warmly welcomed The Princess Royal to the event.
One of the highlights of the day was a round-table discussion chaired by Professor Goswami, focusing on the textile industry’s Roadmap to Net Zero. The Princess Royal actively participated in the dialogue, contributing her valuable insights to help shape the industry’s path toward a more sustainable future.
Furthermore, Her Royal Highness had the opportunity to meet with final-year students from the university’s prestigious textiles, fashion, and costume design courses. This interaction allowed the students to showcase their talent and discuss their own ideas on sustainability within the industry. The Princess Royal expressed her enthusiasm for the creative endeavors of the young designers and encouraged them to continue driving positive change in the sector.
During her visit, The Princess Royal also had the privilege of touring the university’s 2023 graduate Showcase, where she witnessed firsthand the innovative and sustainable designs produced by the next generation of fashion and textile leaders. The event served as a testament to the commitment of both the university and its students to advancing sustainability in the industry.
Professor Goswami expressed the university’s immense honor and pride in hosting HRH The Princess Royal at the prestigious conference. He remarked on Her Royal Highness’s enduring interest in the industry and her unwavering commitment to improving its sustainability. The professor applauded The Princess Royal for attending the conference, which placed such vital issues at the forefront of discussion.
The visit of HRH The Princess Royal to the University of Huddersfield’s Textile Institute World Conference has undoubtedly served as a catalyst for greater awareness and action towards sustainability in the textile and fashion supply chain. With the support and engagement of influential figures such as The Princess Royal, the industry is poised to make significant strides towards a zero-carbon, zero-waste future, ensuring a more environmentally conscious and responsible fashion and textile sector for generations to come.