Project Qualification Change Maker

The Textiles industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental issues, from waste and pollution to unsustainable resource use. As a change maker focused on the Textiles sector, you have the opportunity to challenge the status quo and drive change towards a more sustainable and ethical future. By tackling issues such as fast fashion, waste reduction, and ethical labour practices, you can create a positive impact on the environment, communities, and the industry as a whole.

Being a change maker means being proactive, innovative, and dedicated to making the world a better place—especially within a sector that touches every part of daily life, from the clothes we wear to the Textiles used in technology, interiors, and more.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) offers an opportunity for independent, in-depth research and project development. If you choose to focus on exploring an EPQ title which links to achieving innovative change within the Textiles sector, the structure of the EPQ will help you hone critical skills while making a real-world impact. Through the artefact route, you’ll create a tangible project that demonstrates your ability to innovate, solve problems, and lead change linked to Textiles. 

Definition: A change maker can see how everything is connected in a larger picture and understands how complex systems connect things together.

How it Links to EPQ: In your EPQ, you’ll have the opportunity to explore how the Textiles industry operates and the interconnectedness between manufacturing, waste, consumer behaviour, and environmental impact. You can create a title which challenges the status quo in an aspect of the sector, locally, regionally or globally, and really question what the solutions need to be. This holistic approach will help you identify opportunities for innovation and sustainable solutions. 

Definition: Change makers can engage people at all levels and tell a compelling story about what’s possible.

How it Links to EPQ: Through your EPQ, you’ll practice leadership by taking charge of your project, whether it's through organising a campaign, designing a new product, or raising awareness about sustainability in Textiles. You’ll conclude the EPQ project by presenting your findings and journey through the topic, and develop storytelling skills, sharing the vision behind your change-making efforts. 

Definition: Change makers can build strong relationships and bring together people from different backgrounds.

How it Links to EPQ: Your EPQ will require you to connect ideas, research, and people, seeking out the insights and knowledge of experts already serving the Textiles sector. Whether you’re collaborating with others or conducting interviews with industry experts, you’ll be building relationships and fostering communication to drive your project forward. 

Definition: Change makers have the technical and creative skills to make things happen.

How it Links to EPQ: In the Textiles sector, being a designer and maker involves using both creativity and technical skills to create real-world solutions. Through your EPQ, you have the option to design a practical artefact, such as an innovative fabric, a sustainable fashion collection, or a textile product that addresses a pressing issue. 

Completing an EPQ with a focus on Textiles and social change will strengthen your university applications, particularly for courses in fashion design, sustainability, business, and even social sciences. Universities highly value the ability to undertake independent research, demonstrate creativity, and address real-world challenges. 

As the world focuses more on sustainability, ethical business practices, and innovation, your EPQ project will equip you with the skills employers are looking for. Whether you want to work in the fashion industry, product design, or environmental sustainability, your experience as a change maker will set you apart. 

For students pursuing careers in design and product development, your EPQ artefact will serve as an impressive portfolio piece, showcasing your creativity, problem-solving abilities, and practical skills in Textiles. This tangible project will be a great talking point in interviews and applications. 

The process of being a Change Maker encourages resilience, critical thinking, and collaboration. These skills will serve you well in both your academic and personal life, helping you become a more thoughtful and engaged citizen who is ready to tackle future challenges.