Step into the world of creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability with the Next Leather Fashion Designers Program—a groundbreaking initiative by APLF that transforms young talents into the innovators of tomorrow. This program is your gateway to exploring the limitless potential of leather design, guided by industry leaders, luxury brand founders and sustainability pioneers.
In 2026, this prestigious program made waves in Vietnam and Hong Kong, inspiring over 140 students from top universities to reimagine leather fashion and embrace the art of sustainable design.
Participating Schools:
Hong Kong: Where Creativity Meets Craftsmanship
On 14 March, 2026, the program expanded to Hong Kong, welcoming over 60 students from HKDI and PolyU. This event was designed to provide students with real-world insights and practical skills to thrive in the leather and fashion industries.
1. Guided Tradeshow Tour
Students explored the leather supply chain through a walkthrough of 3-4 key exhibitor stops, gaining a comprehensive understanding of industry operations.
2. Understanding Leather
Speaker: Alane Marder, Head of Sustainability Simona Tanning
A deep dive into leather production, types of leather, and how designers can create sustainable, impactful designs.
3. Designer Sharing: The Truth About Starting Your Brand
Speaker: Queenie Fan, Creative Director & Co-Founder of Cafuné
Insights into turning creativity into a business, with tips on entrepreneurship and building a brand story.
4. Leather Handicraft Workshop
Hosted by The Hong Kong Hides & Leather Traders’ Association
A hands-on session where students crafted their own leather goods, learning practical skills and techniques.
Vietnam: A Celebration of Talent and Innovation
Proudly sponsored by Simona Tanning, the Vietnam Education Day brought together over 80 students from Ton Duc Thang University, Hutech University, and Hoa Sen University for an unforgettable experience of learning, competition, and creativity.
1. Understanding Leather
Speaker: Alane Marder, Head of Sustainability, Simona Tanning
2. Designer Sharing: How to Start a Brand
Speaker: Chau Tran, Founder of Chautfifth
3. Design-a-Bag Competition: Vietnam Talent Edition
Students competed to design the most innovative leather bags.
Winner: Hoai Thuong from Hoa Sen University
The event concluded with the announcement of Hoai Thuong as the overall winner of the Vietnam Talent Edition. Her exceptional design also earned her the title of Global Design-a-Bag Competition Winner, announced at APLF 2026 Hong Kong, crowning her as the ultimate winner of DAB 2026.
Simona Tanning supporting the growth of local leather education
Founded in 2003, Simona Tanning is a leading Vietnam-based leather manufacturer renowned for its craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Based in Ninh Binh Province, the company transforms premium hides into high-quality leathers for footwear, handbags, and fashion accessories, combining traditional expertise with modern technology to meet international standards.
Driven by environmental and social responsibility, Simona Tanning adopts eco-friendly tanning processes, efficient water and waste management systems, and a culture of respect and skill development among its employees. Serving both domestic and global brands, Simona Tanning continues to advance sustainable leather manufacturing while balancing craft, conscience, and creativity.
A unique, hands-on training programme where the students will debunk leather myths, learn every step of the production process, and craft their leather in groups. From science to sustainability, the students will gain skills and knowledge only found inside a work tannery
Join the Next Leather Fashion Designers Program and take the first step toward shaping the future of sustainable fashion.
If you are interested in being part of this program, please email Karen Chen at [email protected].
From learning to creating to connecting—the fashion future starts here.
