Vacheron Constantin launches the “One of Not Many Mentorship Program” in the United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with Zayed University
The prestigious Swiss watch manufacture Vacheron Constantin has announced the launch of the ‘One of Not Many Mentorship Program’, a new educational initiative in collaboration with Zayed University aiming at empowering young Emirati women.
For more than 265 years, the creative universe of Vacheron Constantin has been graced with feminine interpretations whilst capturing the spirit of its times. The Maison has always devoted great importance to meeting and exceeding women’s expectations as reflected through its rich heritage of feminine timepieces.
More recently, the Maison launched a collection fully dedicated to women. Born from the conjunction between the two worlds of Haute Horlogerie and Haute Couture, Égerie reflects today’s modern woman: inspiring, independent and charismatic. The Égerie moon phase jewellery, its latest addition entirely bedecked in diamonds, take place at the highest level of craftsmanship and femininity, with a 37mm white gold case, a dial and a bracelet studded with 1,344 brilliant-cut diamonds.
As part of its feminine journey, Vacheron Constantin proudly reveals the ‘One of not many Mentorship Program’ in the Middle East, an initiative created to inspire and empower young women. The program beautifully mirrors the spirit of the Maison, faithfully perpetuating a proud heritage of know-how, passion, creativity and craftsmanship.
The ‘One of Not Many Mentorship Program’ is launched in collaboration with the prestigious Zayed University and Hala Al Gergawi, Founder and CEO of the local luxury consultancy, Tea Before Noon. The program will give a unique opportunity to six ambitious senior undergraduate students to be mentored by six inspiring and successful Emirati women. Aligned with the United Arab Emirates government’s vision and mission, the program aims to empower the role of youth in the community and encourage women to continue pursuing their dreams to attain their ultimate goals.
The six mentors to take part in this one-of-a-kind educational program are: Rafia Helal Bin Drai, Founder and Fashion Designer of Mauzan, Hala Al Gergawi, Founder and CEO of Tea Before Noon, Latifa Al Gurg, Fashion designer and Founder of Twisted Roots, Alia Al Shamsi, Author and Artist, Salama Al Shamsi, Founder of Salama’s restaurant and Noora Shawqi, Jewelry Designer and Founder of Noora Shawqi.
Bridging together the worlds of Haute Couture and Haute Horlogerie with its feminine collection Égérie, Vacheron Constantin has collaborated with the talented Emirati couture designer and founder of Mauzan, Rafia Helal Bin Drai.
Rafia is not only a mentor taking part of the ‘One of Not Many Mentorship Program’, but also she will design a capsule collection of 7 unique abayas inspired by the recently revealed Égérie collection timepieces, reflecting high craftsmanship, passion, creativity and concern for details. Known to be a true local couturier and empowering women through beautiful designs, Rafia’s passion and creativity resonated with the Maison.
The mentorship journey will begin on November 2020 with a 3-week recruitment period. Based on their career aspirations, students will have the chance to apply through the Zayed University website to be guided by the mentor of their choice in the hope of being selected amongst the six final students.
The six duos will embark on a journey that will provide regular one-to-one sessions with their mentor, allowing them to observe, explore and experiment in a professional environment. Together, the mentors and the students will set the goal for this Mentorship Program to offer a tailored plan for each student in accordance with their objectives and helping them achieve their own professional destiny.
Throughout the six months, the mentors will generously share their own experiences, career advice, and guide the mentee to discover the reality of their own field. The end of this unique program will also lead to a potential opportunity whereby any of the six selected students would take part of another enriching learning experience during an internship with Vacheron Constantin.
