Tipperary student wins culture award at Junk Kouture world final in Abu Dhabi

Congratulations to Ursuline Fifth Year student Genevieve Keane, who won the Cultural Couture Award at the World Final of Junk Kouture held in Abu Dhabi last week.

The fabulous fashion show of up-cycled, recycled couture made from throwaway items featured 60 designs from six countries, including Ireland, UAE, USA, Italy, United Kingdom and France.

Genevieve was one of ten Irish finalists to qualify for the World Final and she received her award because her dress reflected the unique cultural identity of her country.

Her winning design was inspired by St Patrick and Celtic Spiritual tradition and was made with old curtains, curtain lining, coat lining, broken costume jewellery, leather jackets, discarded Donegal Irish woollen yarns and potato sacks.

Genevieve Keane at the Irish Final last May. The creation 'Acantha' inspired by the story of St Patrick was designed and created from potato sacks, curtains, wool and old carpet. Pic: Brian McEvoy

The process of putting together her creation involved tapestry, weaving, embroidering, sewing, felting and lots of hard graft. Genevieve has been an amazing ambassador for the Junk Kouture competition, her country and, of course, her school.

Everyone in UCT is very proud of her, especially the teachers who promote and support the Junk Kouture competition in the Ursuline.

Thanks to Ms Flanagan and Mr English, who accompanied Genevieve to Abu Dhabi and helped her prepare for the World Final.

Contributed to School Days in the Tipperary Star.