Deborah is the Creative Director of Deborah Mckenzie Creative Industries (DMCI) and has been in the fashion industry for decades working as a fashion designer/tailor/artist. After a recent brief spell working as a fragrance consultant and as an account manager for many luxury fragrance brands, she returned to her true passion which is fashion, art and design.
DMCI is different in that it is not solely about fashion but it also incorporates art, and digital art and this art is transferred onto household items like crockery, wallpaper, upholstery etc. The unique aspect of the business is that anyone can get involved by becoming an agent to sell the products from the DMCI catalogue and earn a commission in the process.
1). Which place or city or country do you most feel at home in?
I feel most at home in my home city of Manchester where I was born.
However, I have made London my home now where it is full of inspiration and opportunities.
2). What are your proudest achievements?
My proudest achievements have been being able to sustain my passion for fashion and art and sharing my knowledge through teaching voluntarily to pass on my skills and expertise.
3). What inspires you?
I am inspired by everything around me: people, nature and all art forms.
Ultimately, I am inspired when one of my paintings or designs is purchased; this is the greatest inspiration.
Also, seeing people offer their time and knowledge freely also makes me happy.
4). What has been the biggest obstacle in your career?
The biggest obstacle for any creative is acquiring funding; this can limit the speed of progress.
5). Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
The biggest influence on my career to date are my customers who vindicate what I am aspiring to achieve and who inspire me to continue to evolve.
6). What is the best aspect about your current role?
The best aspect about my current role is that as the Creative Director, I have total autonomy over all the designs and products that I create.
7). And the worst?
Fortunately, I love my role and I am passionate about what I do , so I do not have any complaints.
8). What are your long term goals?
My long-term goals are to grow and expand the business.
I would also like to teach voluntarily.
9). If you were prime minister what one aspect would you change?
I would offer more support to creative small businesses since we are a staple for the economy.
10 ). If you were marooned on a desert island which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why ?
Martin Luther King would be my choice since he was for me the greatest advocate for civil rights through peaceful means.
