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Mauritian, scholar, entrepreneur: The UK graduate using fashion to empower women
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06 Mar 2024
Florinette Cupidon has always approached life with a people-first mindset. It’s why the Mauritian woman entrepreneur pursued her bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management and Services at the Université des Mascareignes and her Master’s in International Development at Birbeck, University of London.
“I have always been amazed by the dynamics of working closely with people, understanding their needs, and fostering a positive work environment,” says Cupidon.
Driven to empower others and create a positive impact at the workplace, learning about human resources made the most sense.
And so did studying international development at the postgraduate level.
The subject allowed her to explore interconnected issues, understand the global context, and develop strategies beyond individual initiatives.
“I recognised the multidisciplinary nature of international development as a key enabler for driving positive change,” says Cupidon.
That discovery came at a time when she needed it most: during the early days of her non-profile online platform, Glitternoire Community.
The community promotes women’s initiatives, with Glitternoire Collection, a clothing brand that empowers women through fashion, an extension of it.
Such ingenuity can explain how Mauritius ranked 57th in the Global Innovation Index in 2023, placing it first in Africa.
Mauritian women, however, only represented 27% of senior and middle management employees in 2022.
Cupidon’s story goes to show how quality education can help graduates achieve more in their careers and communities.
She didn’t embark on any master’s degree; she did it on a Chevening Scholarship, a programme that enables outstanding emerging leaders from all over the world to pursue one-year master’s degrees in the UK.
We caught up with Cupidon to learn more about the Chevening Scholarship, how her UK education has shaped her, and what it means to be a woman entrepreneur today.
Hailing from Mauritius, Cupidon is making waves as a woman entrepreneur. Source: Florinette Cupidon.
How did you find out about the Chevening Scholarship?
I discovered the Chevening Scholarship during my extensive research on available master’s programmes and scholarships.
I was eager to pursue a master’s degree and was actively looking for opportunities that aligned with my personal and professional aspirations.
The Chevening Scholarship caught my attention due to its prestigious reputation and commitment to nurturing future leaders and change-makers.
The scholarship’s emphasis on empowering individuals to contribute to the development of their home countries resonated with my goals, and I saw it as a perfect fit for my journey.
As a fashion lover, Cupidon believes in using fashion to empower yourself to be the best version you are. Source: Florinette Cupidon.
In your opinion, what are the top barriers hindering Mauritian women from pursuing a degree abroad?
I believe it’s a combination of several influences: society, culture and lack of awareness. Many Mauritian women don’t know there are many opportunities open to them.
They don’t know there are mentorship programmes, scholarships and many other resources.
They don’t know they are influenced by what society thinks and says they can do or achieve. Aunties and uncles can be discouraging, telling them a woman need not pursue a master’s degree in the UK.
We see them as wise but these end up disempowering us instead.
How has studying for a degree in the UK impacted your career?
My UK degree, particularly through the Chevening Scholarship, has levelled up my career.
My professional standing has elevated, and I was offered a mid-level position back in Mauritius, a milestone that I find very fulfilling as a woman entrepreneur.
The education I received in the UK has not only enhanced my knowledge and skills but also helped me become more mature. I respond to challenges and situations better now.
And I credit this to being exposed to different perspectives, challenging courses, and just soaking in a new culture.
The Chevening Scholarship develops leaders who can spark positive change. Going through the programme gave me a new sense of purpose and responsibility.
I feel empowered to contribute meaningfully to my field. I also now have doors to opportunities open to me.
I am genuinely grateful for my UK degree’s impact on my career. It has made me more capable and confident. I feel ready to make a difference in my chosen path.
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Tell us more about Glitternoire Collection. How does it support and empower women?
Glitternoire Collection is my entrepreneurial venture. We believe every individual has their unique sparkle and magic. It’s the fire that encourages them to reach for their dreams.
My venture is here to empower people — especially women.
So yes there are lots of stylish clothing but the point is to use them to inject confidence in the people who wear them.
Fashion is a form of self-expression for me, and it is an art which I am passionate about.
Beyond fashion, we also engage in initiatives supporting and uplifting women.
We work with women-led businesses, showcase inspiring stories on our platforms, and create a community space for women to connect and empower each other.
What do you think is your greatest achievement as a woman entrepreneur?
My greatest achievement as a woman entrepreneur has been witnessing the response of the community to my brand Glitternoire Collection.
The fact that women and people around me understand the brand’s vision and mission and actively engage with it is immensely fulfilling.
I feel accomplished that I turned my idea into a brand — and one that goes beyond fashion.
It was this that helped me win the prestigious Chevening Scholarship, convincing the judges that I could be a leader.
London has been ranked #1 QS Best Cities Ranking 2024 for the fifth year in a row. Source: AFP.
What advice would you give those planning to pursue a master’s degree in the UK?
My advice is rooted in the belief that studying for your master’s in the UK is an experience that is a lifetime treasure.
Embrace this opportunity. Be enthusiastic and bold. If you do, you’re set for great rewards.
How do you do it? Network. A lot. You never know who you meet during your master’s programme can help you in your future career.
Connect with your coursemates and professors. It’s always important to have people supporting you.
I would also advise that you take time to explore, appreciate, and learn from the diversity around the UK.
And when things get tough, and they will, approach the challenges in or outside class with an open mind.
Lastly, for those who might be apprehensive, I would say, “Just do it.”
You’ll grow a lot as a person and as a professional.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
