School of Economics alumna, Anisa Johnny, completed her bachelor’s degree in Economics and Social History in 1997. Since then, she’s had a successful and varied career as a fashion designer, entrepreneur and senior marketing and management lecturer – across roles in the UK, Australia and Singapore.
We spoke to Anisa about her amazing journey so far and how her time at Bristol set her on this path.
Why did you decide to study economics at Bristol?
I desperately wanted to be a fashion designer but my parents, who moved to the UK from West Africa, were deeply conservative when it came to education and wanted me to study a subject that would lead me to a recession-proof career. Their ‘ideals’ were law, medicine or accountancy.
I was an A-grade student at school and one of my favourite subjects was economics. Looking back, the course gave me an excellent grounding for all the things I love – consumer behaviour, history and various research methods to reach a better understanding of the world today.
Were there any ideas or beliefs you developed as a Bristol economics student, which have stuck with you since?
Coming from an independent school and a rather sheltered background, Bristol helped me broaden my horizons. I learned so much from other students, especially those from different socio-economic backgrounds.
Some tutorials were like a microcosm of modern Britain – an excellent introduction to the real world. Today this is a principle that still says with me – the importance of a plurality of voices and opinions.
‘To learn from people of different backgrounds is critical to my beliefs and Bristol played a key part in that mindset development.’
What have been your career highlights?
I managed to launch my own fashion brand, after a stint at the buying office at Marks and Spencer. Launching at London Fashion Week Off Schedule and creating one of the first African-inspired fashion brands in the UK was a proud moment. The day when British Vogue and the late Hilary Alexander from the Daily Telegraph featured my work were both ‘pinch me’ moments.
Another amazing moment was being stocked in Topshop’s flagship store. I’d created an African-fashion collection for Topshop that sold out in a record number of weeks. This was during the brand’s heyday when models and celebs could be spotted in store. Whilst restocking the merchandise I overheard two girls of African descent squealing in delight at finding something that represented their culture. Twenty years ago, this was quite a radical departure from what you could find on the UK High Street.
Fast forward to today and my role as a Senior Lecturer in Singapore. I’ve seen the impact of high-volume fashion on the planet and as a result I’ve spent the last 12 years speaking on the sustainable fashion circuit. I was able to negotiate with our partner university for the students to complete a final major project researching and creating a sustainable fashion business.
‘I’m proud to say I’ve done a small part to ensure fashion marketers are aware of fashion’s impact on the environment.’
I also spearheaded a 3-day ‘Eco Fashion Weekend’ to showcase the best of Singapore sustainable fashion. The event was well received with tickets selling out in a few days and was covered by Vogue Singapore.
I’m proud of the community I’ve impacted on and the students who go on to start up sustainable fashion businesses. Two that come to mind are ‘Aloe House’ in India – the founder was recognized for her work in sustainable fashion, and another in Singapore, ‘The Mori Club’, which is now one of the hottest indie brands to watch. I’m proud and excited to impact the next generation and see what they can do.
What advice would you give to others looking to find similar success in their careers?
On leaving Bristol, my immediate career plan was to get a job in the fashion industry. I would not have imagined that it would take me to my dream job as a teacher, mentor and entrepreneurship coach. It’s made me realise anything is possible if you follow your passion (but get a solid foundation first). I think this is where my zeal for helping young adults find their path comes from.
My advice to any young (or young-at-heart) people reading this is to keep focused, don’t worry about the challenges or what seems like the wrong path, things will work out. Two pieces of good advice I received are: “finish what you start”’ and “many roads lead to Rome”. Speak to a career advisor, ask for a short meeting with someone that works in an industry you would love to be part of.
Would you recommend an economic degree to others?
If you have a passion for the subject, then I would recommend an economics degree. I was less interested in maths but had a good grasp of economics principles and a passion for social history.
Economics gives a wider view of human behaviour, reflecting markets, and dives into principles which are evolving thanks to the uncertain world we now live in. If you find this exciting, then study economics.
Are there any other reflections on your time at Bristol which you’d like to share?
Bristol is a fantastic city for history, contemporary music and is close to so many inspiring places and people. Working in the fashion industry we need to understand what is happening in culture.
‘Looking back now Bristol made me realize there are so many stories to tell.’
I learned about music genres I’d never heard of, learnt salsa and how to take photographs. I joined the operatic society and was cast as ‘tree number 3’ in a production, which indicates how terrible I must have been! All these experiences made for rich memories and have helped me in my career today from running fashion shows, directing fashion films and creating content.
Where could a degree in economics take you? Find out more about studying an undergraduate degree in economics at Bristol.