I’m incredibly grateful to have received the BFDT grant, which opened the door for me to explore the world of handmade shoemaking. Thanks to this opportunity, I was able to study at the prestigious Footwear Design and Construction course at Nottingham Trent University. The small, close-knit class environment allowed me to deepen my technical skills and bring my designs to life through hands-on making. This experience has been truly inspiring and has helped me recognise my potential in a way I hadn’t before

As a freelancer in tough economic times, receiving the BFDT grant has made a huge difference to my skill development. I used the grant to enrol on a Footwearlogy course, where I have been training in multiple 3D CAD design programs. As my skills develop, I will take on fresh opportunities, that I previously may not have done, without 3D design knowledge. I am extremely grateful to have been awarded a grant from the BFDT and I look forward to progressing my career further with my new 3D skills.

Getting BFDT grant has energised me to take my footwear knowledge to the next level. I had the opportunity to learn how to make welted shoes from Deborah and James at Carreducker. Hand welted shoe making is a specialist skill I always wanted to learn. It was absolutely amazing and I really enjoyed the course. Thank you again for this opportunity.

Getting BFDT grant has energised me to take my footwear knowledge to the next level. I had the opportunity to learn how to make welted shoes from Deborah and James at Carreducker. Hand welted shoe making is a specialist skill I always wanted to learn. It was absolutely amazing and I really enjoyed the course. Thank you again for this opportunity.