Menswear MA student Gia Jenkins has been announced as the inaugural recipient of Westminster’s new scholarship in partnership with Trust Judy Blame. Established in memory of designer and stylist Judy Blame, the scholarship honours his legacy as a boundary-crossing artist and champion of emerging talent.
Generously funded by Trust Judy Blame, the new Judy Blame Scholarship will make fashion education more accessible by providing the full tuition fees for a student each year on Westminster’s Menswear MA programme. Recipients will be students from underprivileged backgrounds, marginalised communities and LGBTQI+ who demonstrate exceptional potential in menswear design, embodying Blame’s vision of a more inclusive creative landscape.
Legendary stylist, jeweller and artist Judy Blame was renowned for shattering boundaries. His creations turned everyday items into wearable art, and he has been credited for bringing punk style into the mainstream as a stylist for some of the biggest stars of the 80s and 90s.
The Trust Judy Blame charitable foundation was set up not only to preserve, promote and provide access to Blame’s work but also to continue his lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent. Through its partnership with the University of Westminster, Trust Judy Blame will support Blame’s vision of the creative industry where talent, not circumstance, determines access to quality education.
Image courtesy of Trust Judy Blame. Photo credit: Jean-Baptiste Mondino
On becoming the inaugural Judy Blame scholar Gia said: “Getting this scholarship honestly means the world to me. It’s given me the chance to finally put everything into what I love doing most and I’m so grateful. I’ve always been inspired by Judy’s creativity and how he could turn everyday objects into something beautiful and iconic. He has inspired a whole generation and it’s amazing to be part of something that continues his legacy. I’m truly thankful for the support from the Judy Blame Trust and I can’t wait to see what this next year brings!”
About the scholarship Trust Judy Blame said: “TRUST JUDY BLAME was established to celebrate Judy Blame's work, his life and his outlook. During his lifetime Judy tirelessly crusaded for diversity, queer inclusivity, antiracism and sustainability. He believed passionately in nurturing the young people he admired by providing opportunities, advocacy and education. It is our privilege to partner with the University of Westminster as a sponsor on the Menswear MA course, to continue Judy's legacy and to look out, as he did, for the next generation of talented outsiders.”
Anthony Rawson-Campbell, Global Engagement Director for Westminster School of Arts, added: “We're deeply honoured to award the inaugural Judy Blame MA Scholarship to Gia, whose exciting practice and exceptional drive embody the fearless creativity Judy championed. This scholarship holds personal significance; Judy was not only a transformative force in fashion but a friend whose radical talent continues to inspire. Gia demonstrates the kind of boundary pushing potential that would have thrilled Judy. We're incredibly grateful to Trust Judy Blame for their generosity in supporting emerging designers who challenge conventions and expand what menswear can be.
“We would also like to thank artist, designer and friend Louise Gray for invaluable input through the shortlisting process.”
The scholarship contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education and 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
If you or your organisation would like to help foster the next generation of talent by supporting scholarships and initiatives, please contact the Development Team.
Discover more scholarships and bursaries available at the University of Westminster.
Learn about Fashion courses at the University of Westminster
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