BFC Foundation Joe Casely-Hayford Scholarship
In 2023, in collaboration with Casely-Hayford, the British Fashion Council launched the BFC Foundation MA Joe Casely-Hayford Scholarship, alongside a Special Recognition Award honouring the late Joe Casely-Hayford. Both initiatives pay tribute to his enduring legacy and pioneering contributions to fashion and culture.
The scholarship provides funding and support to a student of Black or mixed heritage who has received an offer for, or is currently enrolled in, an MA program at a BFC Colleges Council member university. It was established to support, celebrate, and spotlight emerging talent from Black and mixed heritage backgrounds as they begin their journey in the fashion industry. The scholarship celebrates Black British culture and its profound impact on shaping broader British culture.
Awarded students will have access to the BFC scholars' program, alongside a series of events and industry workshops to support their creative development. Through these initiatives, BFC and Casely-Hayford are committed to securing and future-proofing the next generation of creative talent.
For more information, visit the British Fashion Council.
Taya Francis, winner 2023/24
2023/24 BFC Foundation Joe Casely-Hayford MA Scholarship Recipient - Taya Francis
The first recipient was Taya Francis of Nottingham Trent University. Knitwear designer Taya explores her British-Jamaican identity within her work, informed by her perspective as a third-generation Jamaican.
Grounded in personal and cultural heritage, the collection bridges the historical, social and aesthetic parallels between two distinct islands, Jamaica and the UK. This duality, formed by Francis' upbringing in Nottingham within a family of Windrush immigrants, offers a rich foundation for artistic and cultural exploration. The work is inspired by narratives deeply rooted in lineage while reflecting the lived experiences of diasporic communities.
Through the scholarship, Taya is provided access to the BFC scholars program and receives advice and mentoring from the Casely-Hayford family and team.
