A Passion for Punjabi Fashion | Parmpreet Kaur Gill’s Fashion Design Story

For Parmpreet Kaur Gill, the decision to enroll in Toronto Film School Online’s Designing for Fashion program was one that gave her the skills to creatively express her passion for her Punjabi heritage.

“I come from a traditional Punjabi household. Since my culture-rich upbringing has been such as large part of my identity my whole life, it is definitely something that I am passionate about,” said the 23-year-old Calgary native, who was recently named valedictorian of her graduating class.

“Before starting this program, I had a hard time envisioning my brand and design style. However, now not only does the dream seem possible, but I also have the skills to back it up.”

Now that she’s completed her studies, Gill said her “greatest hope” is to one day create her own brand that reflects her love for Punjabi culture – and she credits her Toronto Film School Online teachers for helping to bring her one step closer to making that dream a reality.

“I want to thank all the instructors and staff for providing us with the knowledge and experiences required to make our big dreams even more achievable!” she said.

“Fashion design has allowed me to express the passion I have when it comes to my heritage.”

Gill recently sat down to reflect on her time at Toronto Film School, her passion for fashion, and her plans for the future. Here’s what she had to say:

Please tell us a little bit about yourself

Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, I am 23 years old and come from a traditional Punjabi household. Since my culture-rich upbringing has been such as large part of my identity my whole life, it is definitely something that I am passionate about. Growing up, I have always been drawn to more creative subjects, such as art, since it has allowed me to express myself without any conditions or restrictions.

What brought you to Toronto Film School? Where were you in life when you decided to continue your studies with us?

The main reason I joined the Online Designing for Fashion program at Toronto Film School was that I wanted to further explore and understand my growing love for fashion. Before joining the program in 2020, I had just completed a marketing certificate and was trying to decide what my next step was going to be. While I knew I wanted to pursue a career in fashion, I wasn’t completely confident I had the skills required. This is why, while stuck in India, I began researching different programs and schools. Since COVID-19 was at its peak, I knew I would need a online program that was flexible, yet structured, and Toronto Film School checked all the boxes on my list.

What made you decide to pursue your passion for fashion design?

While fashion design was not my original goal after high school, a few twists and turns in the road led me to the profession. Sewing was something I had taken up as an activity to pass my time while doing my marketing certificate. However, I will be always grateful for the change, since fashion design has allowed me to express the passion I have when it comes to my heritage.

What is the most important thing you’re taking away from your studies at TFS?

I think the confidence I’ve gained in myself and my abilities throughout this course is probably the most important thing I’ve gained during my studies at Toronto Film School. Before starting this program, I had a hard time envisioning my brand and design style. However, now not only does the dream seem possible, but I also have the skills to back it up.

What are your plans after graduation both immediate and long-term?

I would say my greatest hope is to one day create my own brand that reflects my love for Punjabi culture. However, I do understand that a dream like that does require more than just creativity. So, my short-term goal is to earn the funds required, while gaining valuable experience in the industry.

If you offered one piece of advice to an incoming student, what would that be?

I think one piece of advice I would give to an incoming student is to ask a lot of questions. From my experience at Toronto Film School, I’ve noticed that the professors not only have the knowledge, but also the experience to back up the knowledge. They are also extremely inspirational, and very supportive of each and every student.