The first half of my exchange at Maïa Archive has been a very valuable learning experience and has strongly contributed to the development of my entrepreneurial project, Turchina Studios. Working within a studio that supports independent fashion brands has given me direct exposure to product development, production processes, supplier relationships and project coordination, allowing me to better understand the operational side of the fashion industry.
One of the most important realizations has been understanding how much of the fashion industry cannot be learned in a classroom. I have gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity behind the creation of a collection or even a single product. It is not only about the technical intricacy of a garment, but also about the coordination, planning and problem-solving required to bring a collection to life and position it successfully within the market. Observing the day-to-day challenges faced by emerging brands has helped me understand the realities of running a small creative business and the importance of balancing creativity with operational efficiency.
Beyond the technical knowledge gained, the experience has also helped me expand my professional network and gain a broader perspective on the European fashion ecosystem. Being based in Brussels has allowed me to interact with designers, suppliers and creative professionals from different countries and backgrounds. Collaborating with professionals from different disciplines has reinforced my belief in the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration, which is at the core of Turchina Studios and its mission to create meaningful connections around fashion.
Another valuable aspect of the exchange has been the opportunity to observe how independent brands navigate growth, production constraints and financial realities while maintaining a strong creative identity. This has given me a more realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities that I may encounter when developing my own venture.
Overall, I believe the objectives of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme are being successfully met. The exchange is helping me acquire both entrepreneurial skills and industry-specific knowledge that will be essential for the future development of Turchina Studios. During the second half of the programme, I hope to deepen my understanding of business development, client relationships and the long-term sustainability of creative businesses. I also look forward to further strengthening my professional network and continuing to learn from the practical experience of working within an established creative studio.