Stretton Returns to her Alma Mater

Press Release

Stretton Returns to her Alma Mater

In conjunction with her nationwide celebration of her company’s 20th anniversary, Karamu High School students and faculty will have the opportunity to gain an insider’s perspective on the fashion industry from one of its leaders.

Fashion designer and Businesswoman Annah Stretton will share her industry knowledge with her alma mater this Friday (May 4).

Since departing in sixth form over thirty years ago Annah will speak to current students about the success she has achieved through her career and her Hawkes Bay upbringing that attributed to it.

The young Annah Carver attended Karamu High School from third to sixth form. Here she established a solid foundation in the arts and accounting.

“While I consider the success my brothers and sisters and I have gone on to achieve independently in our careers, I don’t believe our public schooling greatly disadvantaged us.

Far from being sheltered or closeted we were exposed to all sides of life, and certainly learned a few lessons the hard way.”

Her introduction to business was also experienced in Hastings with her first part-time job at Sutcliffe’s Music Centre.

Stretton said this job provided her first insight into the reality that in business, who you know can be equally as important as what you know.

Stretton looks forward to returning for this opportunity to support the community.

More about Annah Stretton:

Annah Stretton’s labels speak from the heart and have grown exponentially along with her loyal customer base for 20 years. Twice a year customers enjoy fresh new collections from the Annah Stretton and Annah S labels, with the popular Chameleon brand now generating new fabrications on a weekly basis.

Her story is one of passion, colour, generosity and inspirational success. Annah’s business, Stretton Group, remains loyally based in the Waikato and encompasses a chain of 30 fashion retail stores throughout New Zealand and Australia. Stretton’s publishing arm which produce HER and PINK magazines gives Annah a voice to reach out across the country to encourage all women to achieve success and independence.

Global export accounts now make up an increasing portion of revenue with garments sold in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, USA, Australia, Dubai and Tokyo.

In demand as a public speaker, Stretton has received a string of awards including becoming the 2009 New Zealand recipient of the Veuve Clicquot Award. This global tribute acknowledges female achievers in business and industry who exemplify the qualities of Madame Clicquot, the woman behind the successful champagne house Veuve Clicquot.

In 2008, she was awarded the honour of becoming a Member of New Zealand Order of Merit for Services to Fashion, Business and the Community.
Annah Stretton is a mother, partner, accountant, animal lover, designer and active protagonist for women’s self development.

www.annahstretton.co.nz

ENDS

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