FROM starting out at the young age of eleven, to creating a world-renowned multimillion empire, Professor Jimmy Choo enlightened guests at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School on his successful break into the industry.

Professor Choo told the Beacon, “One thing I say to you, if you’ve lost your temper, you’ve lost everything.”

On May 5 the creative designer visited Haberdashers’ Monmouth School where he holds his title of OBE and Patron of Fashion, Design, and Textiles to hold a meet and greet with special guests invited by the school.

Guests were greeted by the marketing staff from the school and were treated to an array of canapés, cakes and refreshments to begin the event. A chance to ask questions to the global designer gave people an understanding of his creative journey to breaking into the industry whilst hearing everything about how designers can elevate their skills by attending the Jimmy Choo Academy (JCA) in London.

JCA is aimed at supporting the next generation of fashion enthusiasts to enhance their imagination and skills whilst developing and honing their creative craft to inspire others around them and be in a good stead for a career in a competitive industry. Programme Leader, Frederick Williams provided useful insight into what it is like at the academy, alongside Lucy Choi who is the Director of JCA.

The Beacon spoke to Professor Jimmy Choo and asked how he built his brand up to become a globally recognised business, as well as the skills required to be successful. The advice he provided was invaluable.

“You have to be a firm believer. You have to believe in what you’re doing,” said Mr Choo.

“You have to treat people nice, respect everything, respect family. But with everything you do, you have to believe in yourself. Whatever I do, I believe I can do it.

Mr Choo said he likes to see the meaning behind things, how people act the way they do, meaning behind songs, and he describes this similarly with his work in fashion.

“You have to come up with a story,” he added.

When someone would pay him to design a shoe, he believes there should be meaning behind it, as its personal to them.

But what exactly made Mr Choo one of the most recognised footwear designers in the world? Lucy Choi added his turning point was where he featured in an eight page spread of Vogue in 1988.

His recognition is celebrated all over the world. There are approximately 234 Jimmy Choo stores globally, including places such as London, New York, Tokyo, Europe.

As the event came to a close, guests were able to get their photograph taken with him and have a personally signed notebook.

Besides this, Professor Jimmy Choo works closely alongside the school in hosting workshops whilst working with students who share the same instilled passion.

The day represented his curative nature which was demonstrated to the guests and with the workshops he relays to budding designers. Mr Choo’s creativity inspired all, with advice which will stay with them all throughout their profession.