Make It Melbourne

Featured Speakers

• 

  Ashlynne McGhee

  Ashlynne McGhee is an award-winning investigative reporter at the ABC’s 7.30 program, President of the Melbourne Press Club and sewing columnist for Frankie Magazine. She has worked in the Canberra press gallery, reported as a VJ from remote parts of Australia and overseas and even dipped her toe in investigative comedy.

• 

  Julia Van Der Sommen

  A pattern maker by trade, Julia Van Der Sommen has nearly 30 years of experience across the entire fashion industry and has wielded this expertise to mentor over 500 start-up designers through the Fashion Label Launchpad. In 2009 Julia founded Sample Room, and in 2011, along came Pattern Room. They’ve since become invaluable resources for pattern makers all over the world.

• 

  Kate Dillon

  Kate Dillon, founder of Melbourne brand, She Lion. In March 2020, Kate brought together over twenty local businesses to create a zero-to-wear Australian-made supply chain to raise awareness, survive (and thrive through) the pandemic; and truly support local.

• 

  Margie Woods

  Margie Woods launched her own brand Viktoria & Woods in 2004, starting with merino wool knitwear at the heart of the label. The label is now renowned for their uncompromising quality, impeccable details and precise tailoring. From being the first Australian brand to elevate and modernise the basic, Viktoria & Woods is now an industry favourite.

• 

  Vicki Nicola

  Vicki Nicola – Lead Educator at Fashion -Kangan Institute – has contributed to the Melbourne fashion industry for over 30 years and has over 20 years experience as an educator. Her experience in education includes teaching and developing new courses, with an emphasis on circular economy and passing on her strong technical skills.