Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Matière Noire designer Cécile Raizonville, whose dedication to her craft was rewarded last year when she was announced as an Awarded Designer by the Mercedes-Benz Start Up program. Where does she see herself in five years? Find out in today’s profile…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
Working in the fashion industry and being an entrepreneur, my job varies each day depending on the season and the projects. In a nutshell, my job is to find innovative ways to produce a well-designed collection that both tells a story and reflects my values.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I have interned and worked for many amazing fashion companies, and while I did enjoy my experience and learned a lot, my goal (like most entrepreneurs and fashion designers) has always been to direct a project of my own with the right team, which is why I started Matière Noire.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is having the full creative direction of my brand and being able to work on my own terms. It is the dream of most creative people.
The most challenging part is that since I manage the creative direction of the brand, I am accountable for both good and bad decisions.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself working with Matière Noire, surrounded by even more talented and inspiring people.
What does success look like to you?
Success for me would be to create a sustainable brand that truly connects with and inspires the consumer.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
2013 has been a memorable milestone in my career; each step has been a gift, from launching the first Matière Noire collection at Montreal Fashion Week to meeting my two business partners Alice Chipot and Olfa Khenessi, as well as being named an Awarded Designer by the Mercedes-Benz Start Up program.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
To trust your instincts and always try to put yourself in a challenging situation because it will allow you to grow and push yourself further.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I don’t support a specific charity at the moment but Matière Noire is a socially and environmentally responsible brand, which is important to me.
What to you is notable?
Someone that is really open to others, who understands that in order to grow you always need to listen to others, question yourself and not to be sure about things.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
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