The BA Graphic Design student shares how her internship has helped shape her skills, creativity and future career ambitions.

Imogen, a second-year BA (Hons) Graphic Design student, joined Kukri in August 2025 after securing a placement opportunity offered through the ongoing partnership between Kukri and Nottingham Trent University.

The partnership extends beyond sportswear, creating opportunities for students to gain real-world experience, develop their skills and thrive off the pitch as they prepare for their future careers.

Over the past year, Imogen has contributed to a variety of creative projects across graphic design, product design and marketing, producing outstanding work while gaining a deeper understanding of the industry.

Reflecting on her experience, she said “I think I’ve grown significantly as a designer and person during my time at Kukri.

“As a designer, my knowledge has broadened enormously. I’ve learnt so much from my co-workers across different departments.

“As a person, my confidence has grown a lot too, and I’m no longer worried about challenging my ideas or others when it comes to design work.”

During her internship, Imogen also gained a greater appreciation of the collaborative nature of design, learning how ideas develop through teamwork, feedback and refinement.

“I was used to following my own process, but quickly learnt that design in a professional environment is rarely linear,” she added.

“I had to learn to adapt, take on feedback and apply it to my work.”

The experience has given Imogen valuable insight into the creative industry and helped shape her ambitions for the future.

“Kukri has given me so many opportunities to develop my skills,” said Imogen.

“It’s really allowed me to open my eyes about what I want to do next. I want to stay in the creative industry, but now I have many skills that I can use to my advantage moving forward.”

Imogen’s journey highlights the impact of the partnership between Kukri and Nottingham Trent University, with both organisations committed to helping students develop alongside their studies.

Emmeline Stansbie, Imogen’s placement tutor at Nottingham Trent University, said “Industry experience is invaluable for students, and the personal and professional development that Imi has gained on her placement will be gold dust for when she returns for her final year.

“Imi has embraced every opportunity, developed her confidence and shown the value of combining academic learning with real-world experience.”

Kukri Sports Group COO Chris Marshall said “It’s been fantastic to see Imogen grow and develop throughout her time at Kukri.

“We’ve loved having her as part of the team, and from the outset, she has brought creativity, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, quickly becoming a valued member and making a strong contribution across a number of projects.”

Everyone at Kukri Sports would like to thank Imogen for her dedication, creativity and contribution to the team throughout her internship, and wish her the very best of luck with the next stage of her studies and future career.