How the summer programme broadened my understanding of the Luxury sector!

Q1. Tell us a bit about yourself.  

My name is Khadyajah Jenkins. I am American and hold a Master's degree in Teaching. I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education and a Master's in Business Administration. My research focuses on the intersectionality of human lived experiences. By using the knowledge gleaned from analysing current and historical events, I aim to build bridges of equity and opportunity within global communities.

Q2. Why did you choose the Business of Luxury Summer Programme and what did you gain from it? 

I chose this programme to challenge myself by exploring a sector previously unfamiliar to me and to deepen my academic and professional expertise. My interest in luxury stems from a desire to gain exposure to different academic and professional realities, which in turn helps me to guide my students as they discover and navigate their post-secondary-school pathways.
I was particularly drawn to the perfume sector because of my undergraduate background in agriculture, while the yachting sector intrigued me because of my prior studies and research in marine biology, especially during a stint in the Galápagos. Through this programme, I uncovered profound connections between my agricultural studies and the luxury perfume industry in Grasse. For example, touring the Dior jasmine farms and engaging with the farmers offered a fascinating insight into the end-to-end product development process, highlighting the intricate relationship between raw materials and luxury products.

Q3. How has the programme benefited you?  

This programme has broadened my understanding of the luxury sector by revealing the intricate relationships between its various segments and how they synergise to form a cohesive ecosystem. I plan to integrate this knowledge into my ongoing dissertation work. As I aim to complete my doctorate, my goal is to partner with corporations and educational enterprises to develop student-centred programmes globally. These programmes will be tailored to align with students' post-secondary and career interests, drawing on the principles and insights I have gained from studying the luxury sector.

Q4. What made the programme stand out?  

Undertaking a programme in luxury in Nice made perfect sense given Nice's central role in the south of France. The city’s rich history and deep connection to the luxury ecosystem make it an ideal location for such studies. During my time there, I had the privilege of visiting several renowned institutions, but the Lancôme facility, Domaine de la Rose, was particularly striking. It was truly a dream to visit and provided an unparalleled insight into the world of luxury and the intricate processes behind it.