For Jayd Hobdell of Narangba, graduating from USC with a combined degree in Business and Arts has tied together her love of fashion design with a passion for business.

The former Pine Rivers State High School student is now utilising skills and knowledge from her Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Arts (Design & Marketing) in her family’s wholesale clothing business, Festival Clothing Company.

Jayd, 22, and her twin sister Navosha have also branched out to create their own retail fashion enterprise, Festival, which sells a range of ethnic beachwear in pop-up locations around North Lakes.

Jayd administers the Festival Clothing Company’s accounts and also manages other aspects of the business, including budgeting, buying stock, creative design and marketing.

“Although my work keeps me extremely busy, I have gained so much experience that many people my age would not have had,” she said.

“The skills I learnt have been a huge help in understanding my family’s business operations and planning.”

Jayd said her study also helped her in supporting the company’s new business model, which included the creation of a new website and system processes.

“I really do have a great job,” she said. “I'm passionate about the industry and the work it involves.”

Jayd said she chose to study at USC because of its modern and open campus on the Sunshine Coast and because it provided the double degree that she was looking for.

- Gail Champion