A Newcastle College University Centre student has successfully staged a major fashion show celebrating fashion, culture and creativity in the North East.
Fashion student and designer Lamin Gibba welcomed hundreds of guests to Shy Bairns Get Nowt at Newcastle's iconic Boiler Shop, a runway event showcasing the latest collection from his fashion brand, Jerry J Clothing, and the journey that has shaped his growing success within the industry.
Held on Wednesday 10 June, the show explored themes of identity, ambition and personal growth, drawing inspiration from Lamin's experiences moving from The Gambia to the UK.
The event welcomed members of Newcastle's creative community alongside friends, family and supporters. Among those in attendance were Sainey Barrow, Counsellor at The Gambia High Commission in London, and Mama Jobe-Conateh, Protocol and Welfare Officer at The Gambia High Commission.
The runway show also provided opportunities for students from across Newcastle College to gain valuable industry experience. Digital Arts students were responsible for capturing the event through photography, while Performing Arts students took to the stage with live dance performances that helped bring the evening's celebration of fashion and culture to life.
Lamin, who is currently completing a Master's degree at Newcastle College University Centre, said:
"I'm feeling amazing and incredibly grateful for all the support. The creative community has really come together to make tonight happen.
"Three years ago, I didn't even know what a fashion show was. One of my first trips with Newcastle College was to a fashion event in London, and that's where I started finding inspiration. Since then, I've worked hard and tonight shows that hard work really does pay off.
"When the venue first asked how many seats we needed, I said 200. In the end, we had to add even more because of the demand. Seeing so many people come out to support the event has been incredible.
"The support I've received from Newcastle College University Centre has been amazing. Without the encouragement and guidance from staff, I don't think I would be where I am today."
Lamin has built an impressive reputation during his time at Newcastle College University Centre. Earlier this year, he designed an outfit worn by Newcastle MP Dame Chi Onwurah for her investiture ceremony and was also part of Newcastle College's award-winning contribution to the Association of Colleges Beacon Awards.
Libby Lagun, Head of Art and Design at Newcastle College, said:
"Lamin is an exceptional talent whose creativity, determination and entrepreneurial spirit have enabled him to build an impressive profile while continuing his studies.
"What makes this achievement particularly special is the way he has used fashion to celebrate his heritage, bring people together and create opportunities for others within the creative community. The scale and quality of this event is a testament to the hard work he has invested over many years.
"The involvement of students from across our creative disciplines also reflects the collaborative environment we are proud to foster at Newcastle College University Centre, giving students the opportunity to work on live projects and gain valuable industry experience.
"Everyone at Newcastle College University Centre is delighted to see him achieving such success, and we look forward to following the next stage of his journey."
The success of Shy Bairns Get Nowt marks another significant milestone in Lamin's career and demonstrates how Newcastle College University Centre students are transforming their talent and ambition into real-world success.