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Q&A Jean School alumni: Ardjoen Mahangoe

By FashionUnited

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With the Jean School’s first alumni already having entered the workforce, FashionUnited contacted a few of them to catch up and take a moment to map out for which denim companies they currently work. This week a new alumni with a quick Q&A. Today Ardjoen Mahangoe, Founder at Arjuns Goods.

Why did you choose for Jean School?

“I wanted to specialize in fashion, and Jean School suited me really well because I have a true affinity for denim. During an internship at Atelier de l’Armée I learned about jeans and workwear and I really wanted to continue on this.”

What was the most valuable thing you learned at Jean School?

“Thanks to the Denim Developer programme I know how to translate an idea or concept to a design and - eventually - a garment. I also learned about everything that matters during the production process. And I met a lot of new contacts because Jean School is present at the Denim Days and Dutch fashion trade fair Modefabriek. Finally, I also did internships with a factory in Istanbul and at a laundry in Valencia. This really allowed me to grow both in terms of my skills and personally.”

Where do you work now, and what is your job title?

“I founded my own label: Ajurns Goods. I started the company right after graduation, in November 2016. At the start of 2016 I already began preparing the launch of the label.”

How would you describe what an average day in your life looks like?

“An average day generally starts with checking emails and making a plan for the day. After that, I start preparing expositions or fairs that I am attending. In between things I have meetings about these events, and I consult my team about branding, social media and so on. I also have to check the status of samples that are being produced with the factories. And each moment in which I feel inspired, I work on ideas for future collections and items. And yes: administration is of course also part of the daily routine.”

What ambitions do you still have?

“My ambition is to make Arjun’s Goods as great as I can. The sky is the limit. I would love to have an impact on the fashion industry and really hope that a lot of people will want to wear what I create. And denim will always be a part of my collections.”

About Jean School

Jean School offers both a three-year Dutch programme as well as a one-year international version which is completely taught in English. Both the Dutch as well as the English programme are focussed on four specific themes: innovation, sustainability, history and craftsmanship. Students receive training in a variety of both practical and theoretical aspects of denim, including sewing, pattern making, washing and buying. The programme is closely tied to the industry: students regularly receive guest lectures by professionals from the industry, and they also get the chance to participate in projects for which they have to collaborate with companies. Additionally, students annually attend the Amsterdam Denim Days as well as the Global Denim Awards and get to be involved in the renowned denim trade fair King Pins. More information on the programme, admission requirements and the application can be found on the Jean School website.

Since its establishment in 2012, a total of 21 students graduated from the programme. Of these alumni, the large majority has found a job in the denim industry.

Also check the storymap with all the Jean School alumni from the class of 2015 and 2016 here.

Alumni
Jean SChool
Workinfashion