Cabrera Gains Global Insight into Fashion and Luxury Marketing

University of the Ozarks junior María Fernanda Cabrera González is turning her passion for marketing and fashion into global experience. The marketing and finance major from Tabasco, Mexico, recently completed a prestigious 24-week Diploma in Fashion and Luxury Marketing and Communication through ELLE Education in collaboration with Camilo José Cela University (UCJC) in Spain - a program that blends creativity, strategy, and innovation for careers in the international fashion and luxury industries.

As part of the program, Cabrera spent a week in Madrid, Spain, in July, connecting with leading professionals and executives from global brands such as Loewe, Pandora, and Mango.

"These encounters provided me with valuable insights into how top brands manage their image, communication, and marketing strategies in the competitive luxury sector," she said. "The program's practical projects and evaluations also helped me develop essential skills in campaign creation, brand storytelling, and market analysis."

During the Executive Week in Madrid, Cabrera attended sessions on runway production, digital marketing, neuromarketing, influencer marketing, and sustainable fashion, while also participating in workshops and networking events with prominent industry leaders.

"This unique opportunity allowed me to meet students from all over the world, exchange perspectives, and gain first-hand experience in the European fashion market," she said.

Her journey was made possible through a Santander Scholarship, funded by Banco Santander, which supports students pursuing international academic opportunities. Through the Santander Open Academy platform, Cabrera received more than $3,000 to help cover the Executive Week in Madrid as well as part of her program tuition.

Looking ahead, Cabrera aspires to work for a multinational fashion or beauty company such as L'Oréal, or in public relations for a luxury brand like Yves Saint Laurent.

"This program helped me strengthen my marketing and communication skills while teaching me how to create strong brand identities and manage large-scale campaigns-skills that are essential for success in the luxury and fashion industries," she said. "I truly encourage other students to take advantage of programs like this. They not only boost your CV but also open doors to meaningful connections and global perspectives."

Topics: Marketing