Mrs. Rupal Dalal is presently serving as the Managing Director at JD Institute of FashionTechnology, India. She has been instrumental in creating the modern-day field of design studies and raising awareness of fashion's cultural significance. Mrs. Dalal evinces a keen interest in developing Indian fashion retail and adopting sustainable practices in design, including craft cluster development. Also, she has been awarded the prestigious “The Times Power Icon 2019” and “Smt. Sushila Agarwal Memorial Award” as well. Her association with international and national welfare organizations such as PETA and the Indian cancer society has created a positive difference at the institution. Under the supervision of Ms. Dalal, JD Institute of Fashion Technology has won several awards, including the ‘Leaders in Education Award’ at “UK Asian Business Awards” at the Congress Hall London, the “Best Vocational Education Institute of the Year – Fashion Design” at the 7th Indian Education Awards by Indian Education Congress, ‘Excellence Award’ at ‘The International Glory Awards 2019’, and the ‘Best Skill Learning’ for Fashion Design in India at the Indian Education Awards.

JD Institute of Fashion Technology

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

“Regular upgradation and constant learning”

I think when you have been in the education industry for such a long time, you don’t really need to make an effort to stay connected, rather it becomes a way of life. I’m constantly observing the changes, gaps, opportunities and challenges in the design industry and advise my team to keep making the academics more and more relevant to the current and the anticipated future. I also keep myself updated with all government policies, not limited to only academics, and also participate in multiple seminars where design enthusiasts share their views and perspective on this dynamic industry.

How would you describe your leadership style?

“Acknowledgement and decision making with members”

A good leader needs to be aware about his/her strong and weak points, and also about his/her team’s strengths and weaknesses as a whole. As a leader, it's important for me to help my team grow personally and professionally. Another very important aspect is hearing your team’s views and suggestions and taking the decision participatively. Their suggestion could be a product of their individual experience but being the head of the institution, I need to assess how their expertise and strategies would be relevant from the organization’s perspective.

What can an inbound student gain from studying here in your institute?

“Excellent academics, quality learning and global marketplace”

In my opinion, JD Institute is more alike in terms of the structure than different. So, it will just give you a real experience of an inbound student - extensive knowledge on handwoven textile, cultural context while designing, more interdisciplinary projects, professors engage in more one to one mentoring sessions. We have worked with numerous colleges and universities around the globe on short-term and long-term collaborative projects and as knowledge exchange partners. JD Institute is a community, where each one can voice their thoughts, engage in healthy conversations, refine their skills and most importantly go a little wild with their imagination.

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How does the curriculum of JD Institute ensure the best practice of industry?

“Multi-disciplinary and practical integrations with industrial activities”

The entire academic team works on making the curriculum more and more industry relevant and also training them on how to use their skills for the anticipated future opportunities. JD Institute strongly believes in holistic development of its students. We will not only make you better designers but also want you to pursue your hobbies through multiple programs present at the college. A happier individual will always excel in any industry and we consciously work towards that. Another important aspect of the curriculum is extensive industrial lectures and mentorship sessions. The bridge between institute and the industry has shortened due to multiple interaction points throughout the program. Jediiians are also taught to develop extensive entrepreneurial skills through simulation projects, real time projects and proposals.

What do you think should be JD Institute’s top priority over the next 10 years?

“Futuristic and responsive approaches for design industry”

We have always been a future oriented Institution. For the next 10 years, we plan to create responsible designers through educating the youth on generative design, conscious sustainable practices, and inclusive design standards. We aspire to establish a global reach of programs and strive Jediiians to truly become designers of the future and not just of products.

What do you see as JD Institute of Fashion Technology’s greatest strengths?

“Widespread alumni and great hold on academics”

The institution believes that its greatest strength is its alumni like Rocky S, Shane Peacock, Shruti Sancheti and many more, who have dominated the global markets and not just India. But to talk in quantifiable terms, the programmes or activities at the institution promote global business opportunities, a sense of community and strong industry training and network that has clearly set us apart from the rest.

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Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth?

“Be mindful and aware about yourself”

Youth must concentrate on their mental wellbeing, and must not choose their career path out of peer pressure. If you are unsure, reach out to our academic counsellors who

will guide you further into discovering your niche, your interest and what field is best suited for you. Also, accept who you are, a good professional is always self-aware. Lastly, focus on holistic growth, success will follow and look for more than academics in a college.