Esterina Nervino is Assistant Professor at the City University of Hong Kong, jointly appointed in the Department of English and the Department of Marketing, for which she is the co-director of the New Frontiers in Professional Communication Lab (NFPC) and Associate Director of the Sales and Marketing Consulting Unit (SMCU) respectively. She is also Cultore della Materia at the Department of Studies on Language and Culture of the Universita’ degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia (Italy), invited External Member of the Research Centre for Professional Communication in English at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, executive committee member and outreach officer of the Asia-Pacific LSP& Professional Communication Association, and core member of the Communicating Sustainabilities network. She holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and her research interests include social semiotics, multimodality, corpus linguistics, sustainability discourse, digital media, cultural development and city brand, professional communication across sectors, including luxury, arts, and finance.

Prior to CityU, Esterina was the Director of Retail in Asia (part of Bluebell Group) in charge of media brand operations including content selection, curation, edition, and commercial strategy. At Bluebell Group she also took on the additional role of Public Relations Lead.

Jennifer Tam, an experienced brand strategist who worked with diverse clientele from SMEs to listed companies in both local and international market. She is now the director of a renowned brand Chicks. Chicks has been producing quality everyday wear for Hong Kong and beyond since 1953.

As the 4th generation, she is continuing the brand’s legacy as well as enhancing all touch points from supply chain to brand experience for people who share the same belief – The best for the family. These years, Chicks has focused more on the social responsibility towards our community and the environment, choosing to use more natural and sustainable materials whenever possible, as well as developing durable and functional products, such as garments that cater to the elderly and individuals with skin conditions.

What the brand is weaving are lasting relationships, through which we hope to convey a sense of care and sincerity.

Jesse holds a MA in Menswear from the University of Westminster (London, UK) and a degree in Fashion from Kingston University (UK). In 2022, Jesse won the International Talent Support Contest (ITS) Sportswear Award powered by Lotto Sport. Jesse was awarded the Redress Design Award 2020 All Star accolade for his collaboration with The R Collective and Levi’s® for the ‘Denim Reimagined’ collection. He won the Redress Design Award 2018 Second Prize Mentorship with Orsola de Castro as well as the Hong Kong Best Prize the same year.

Kenneth Au is the Chief Technology Officer of StyleSpace AI, an AI solutions company and an incubatee of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park (HKSTP), focused on transforming the fashion retail industry. With over 8 years of experience in artificial intelligence research, Kenneth has been at the forefront of applying AI to fashion. He conducted extensive research in AI during his MPhil studies at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, laying the groundwork for his innovative work in AI-driven fashion solutions.

At StyleSpace AI, Kenneth leads the development of technologies, including 3D body measurement systems for precise sizing, diffusion-based virtual try-on solutions that enable customers to visualize garments with just a photo, and AI-powered fashion image stylists driven by large language models. His vision bridges the gap between cutting-edge AI and its practical applications in retail, helping brands enhance customer experiences and optimize operations.

Kenneth’s unique combination of technical expertise and market insight enables StyleSpace AI to deliver solutions that empower fashion brands to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. His work is driving the AI revolution in fashion, expanding what technology can achieve for retailers and customers.

Alfie is COO and operation partner of Style3D, an expert in fashion technology especially for AI, 3D, metaverse & RFID. Previously, he has served in senior level management in various MNC such as Avery Dennison & Siemens, he has expertise to help MNC to land biz in China, and help China startup to go international. Alfie owns master degree in CUHK, and E.E. in Wuhan University.

Igor Gulyaev is a leading Russian designer, fashion designer, TV presenter and innovator of fur fashion, founder of the IGORGULYAEV Brand (Est. 2009) and the youth fashion line GULЯЙ! He created and creates images for the red carpet, iconic bright events, theatrical performances and cinema, such bright stars of the world industry as the unsurpassed Whitney Houston, the amazing Lara Fabian, the fantastic Anna Netrebko, the star of Italian cinema Ornella Muti, the Great Montserrat Caballe, Nastassja Kinski, Goldie Home and many others shone in the designer’s creations, the brightest stars of Russian show business shine in his creations. Laureate of numerous fashion awards and prizes in the fashion industry. Igor Gulyaev has repeatedly taken part in international fur fashion weeks, his works had stunning success in Milan, Dubai and Hong Kong, and more than 10 years he has been the headliner of Mercedes Benz fashion week Russia. The designer’s flagman boutique is located in the center of Moscow, and the Fashion House is located on Vasilievsky Island in St. Petersburg. It`s a space in which seasonal collections and the Brand’s couture line are created, the highest quality, uniqueness and versatility of design ideas attract clients of the fashion house to touch the creativity of the designer and inspirer of the Brand!

Hoiki Liu is a Hong Kong-born entrepreneur with a passion for sustainable fashion and ethical business practices. Her journey in the business world began after receiving her education from both local and international schools in Hong Kong and pursuing further studies in Canada during her high school and university years.

After her early career led her into the family garment manufacturing business, Nice Tones Ltd., founded by her father, Davy Liu, in 1992, she expanded the family’s ventures by establishing Skyrex International Ltd. in 2009. This new venture focused on partnering with factories in various garment categories, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen and commitment to business growth.

Hoiki’s personal life took a significant turn as she got married and became a mother to two boys. This transformative experience fueled her dedication to living consciously and sustainably. She adopted eco-friendly practices in both her personal life and business endeavors, promoting a lifestyle focused on reducing single-use plastics and embracing sustainability in all aspects.

Driven by her passion for sustainability, Hoiki launched Anthora Collection in 2024, a women’s wear capsule line that embodies timeless fashion and eco-conscious principles. Anthora Collection sources deadstock materials, prioritizes plastic-free packaging, and incorporates natural or recycled accessories, setting a new standard for sustainable fashion in the industry.

Beyond her business endeavors, Hoiki values work-life balance and community engagement. She shares her expertise in sustainability and entrepreneurship through her sustainable journal, open table discussions, and educational presentations. She also engages in charitable initiatives with her family, including beach clean-ups and food distribution efforts, instilling values of environmental and social responsibility in her children and the community.

William is passionate about promoting sustainable practices and driving the circular economy within the textile industry.

William has a wealth of on the ground experience project managing complex textile-to-textile, closed-loop recycling projects for pre and post consumer textiles for over 20 European sports and fast-fashion companies at China’s largest recycled cotton spinning mill.

William has been involved in developing and executing customised pre and post-consumer textile recycling programs that effectively provide solutions to the lower quality clothing excess from consumers and unsold excess garment stock into recycled yarn solutions.

With multi-stakeholder and cross-functional management experience, William is involved in managing complex supply chains, including sourcing, logistics and production, to ensure efficient project execution and delivery within budget and timeline. He has developed and implemented robust quality control procedures to ensure high-quality recycled materials.

NORMANMABIRELARGUIER is a new contemporary Couture House based in Paris, founded by designer Norman Mabire-Larguier. Sensitive and radical, NORMANMABIRELARGUIER’s collections result from in-depth formal research and an intimate quest for inner freedom.

The monochromatic and sophisticated silhouettes emphasize the architecture of the garment.

Aimed at private clients, its agender pieces aremade-to-measure from the finest sustainable materials by French artisans renowned for their savoir-faire.

Yidi Chen is the Founder and Creative Director of MATTTER, a platform accelerating the vertical application of next-generation material innovations. Prior to founding MATTTER, Yidi’s background was in fashion media, where she curated creative content for NOWNESS, IDEAT, Wallpaper, yehyehyeh, and others, with a focus on culture and sustainability. Her extensive portfolio includes collaborations with brands such as Hermès, Louis Vuitton, among others.

Brian Luo is the Product Director of Guangdong Quaternion Technology Ltd., a subsidiary of the Tessellation Group, specializing in providing Smart Manufacturing automation and digital solutions for the textile manufacturing industry.

Brian holds a Master’s degree in Materials Engineering and Nanotechnology from City University of Hong Kong, and a Master’s degree in Applied Data Science from The University of Michigan, USA.

Prof. Li Li is a Professor in the Division of Integrative Systems and Design of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and the Fellow of Royal Society of Arts. Prof. Li’s research interests include design thinking, advanced manufacturing, fiber composite materials, structure-based soft matter, and art. Her research has expanded the potential of fibers, a distinctively soft material, beyond their traditional applications into a versatile and powerful interdisciplinary tool benefitting designers and researchers across various disciplines. The design engineering of fibers enables tactile qualities that can evoke emotions and storytelling, allowing immersive and interactive experiences. Thus, revolutionize the creative industry, drive commercial success, and unlock new opportunities for different sectors. Her adoption of design thinking has also provided opportunities to experiment and innovate in areas such as smart technology, material science, and sustainable design, and has found practical value for the domains of design, healthcare, agriculture, archaeology, electronics and life style etc. Furthermore, her research has had successful industrialization and commercialization outcomes on an international scale.

Joanne Yip, a professor at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), holds a BSc (Hons) in Textile Technology (with first class Honors) and a PhD from the same institution. Her doctoral research focused on Low Temperature Plasma and Excimer Laser Treatments on Polyamide. Before joining PolyU, she worked as a visiting researcher at Rice University in the US, conducting instrumental experiments. Prof. Yip has published over 100 papers in Textile and Material Science Journals. She also has industry experience, having worked in the intimate apparel sector where she gained extensive knowledge of materials, quality requirements, and production techniques. Currently, she serves as Associate Dean and Professor at PolyU, teaching courses on intimate apparel and activewear. Her research interests include functional garments for scoliosis, new materials and technology, surface treatments on textiles, and moulding or seamless techniques used in intimate apparel and activewear.

With 30 years of experience in the global leather industry, Francis Tsang has witnessed significant technological advancements over the past five years. He has transitioned from traditional chrome tanning methods to innovative chrome-free and heavy metal-free tanning systems. These developments have greatly reduced water and chemical usage while addressing the issues of heavy metals and chromium VI, thereby minimizing environmental pollution.

Recently, Francis has focused on ethically sourcing Tibetan domestic raw yak hides, aiming to support Tibetan herder and farmer families and ensure that no hides go to waste. His commitment to sustainability and ethical practices reflects his dedication to transforming the leather industry for the better.

Ms. Denise Ng brings over 20 years of diverse experience in the textile and apparel industry, having held key roles in multinational corporations, renowned fashion brands, and retail companies. Denise is currently the Head of Softlines, Connectivity and Products, SGS Hong Kong Limited. With her main focus on sustainable fashion initiatives, driving digital transformation, and leveraging data analysis to enhance industry practices. She holds a degree in Sociology and an MPhil in Social Science from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, underscoring her commitment to merging social insights with industry innovation.

Stephen has years of experience in brand management and business development. As the head of several brands, Stephen has collaborated with various local artists. These collaborations not only enriched his business perspective but also deepened his understanding of local culture.

As the Business Development Director at #CCCCCc Se/ect, Stephen combines his expertise with a creative passion to drive business growth and optimize customer experience. He excels in developing and executing strategies aimed at integrating Hong Kong’s unique culture into daily life, enhancing the shopping experience for customers, and promoting the sustainable growth of local brands.

Gina Azaric is a seasoned senior executive, board professional, and thought leader with extensive experience in leading business transformations across telecom, medical technology, food, beauty, and startups in Scandinavia. As a former Chief Marketing Officer and commercial leader, Gina has significantly contributed to the growth and success of several high-profile brands. Her exceptional innovative leadership in building the Three brand and expanding market shares across Scandinavia has earned her the prestigious title of Marketing Manager of the Year and she has been consistently listed among the Best Marketing People, affirming her significant impact and effectiveness in the marketing field.

With a strong focus on sustainability, Gina has promoted initiatives in digitalization, eco-friendly product development, and sustainable branding. She is dedicated to reducing inequalities and promoting inclusion and environmental awareness in the industries she leads.

Gina holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and Economics from Lund University, Sweden, and has pursued studies in Innovation, Tech Entrepreneurship, and AI strategies at Harvard University and Harvard Business School. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in innovation, social responsibility, and creating a meaningful positive impact in both business and society.

In 2017, she founded Yoga for Good to support The Hunger Project, reflecting her belief in the power of community and inner development for social change.

Ken has extensive experience in marketing and public relations. In addition to being the Public Relations Director at #CCCCCc Se/ect, he is also the founder of a company focused on the emerging sports market, with a keen sense of the dynamics in this space. This enables him to gain insights into consumer needs and develop effective communication strategies to enhance brand image.

As the Public Relations Director at #CCCCCc Se/ect, Ken combines his expertise with a sharp insight into market trends, dedicating himself to enhancing the company’s influence in the local market. He continuously explores new promotional channels to foster interaction between the brand and customers, and he is committed to shaping a vibrant and creative brand image to drive sustainable business growth.