TOA-ESMOD Graduate Spotlight 2026: Jacinta Lau Yu Xuan – Winner of the “Coup de Coeur” Award
April 1, 2026 | Campus News
once again presented a spectacular Graduation Fashion Show on March 29, 2026. Showcasing the latest ensemble of soon-to-be graduates, these rising fashion designers took over the runway with bold creations, delivering an elegant experience infused with artistry, fresh narratives, and boundary-pushing craftsmanship.
This season, the designers transformed themselves to embody the theme “颁贬滨惭贰搁础” – a mythical creature from Greek mythology, known as a hybrid beast composed of different animals forms. The show explored the concept of duality and diversity in self-expression.
The talented lineup from the class of FD2303 included Amber Chong Ann Qee, Ashley Goh Si Jie, Belle Jong Chen Zi, Chuah E-Xuan, Erica Chua Qian Rou, Jacinta Lau Yu Xuan and Michelle Wong Zi Ting.
After three years of dedication and hard work, these designers are ready to take the fashion world by storm. By organising an entire fashion show from start to finish, they gained invaluable hands-on experience – from procuring models and coordinating hair and makeup to managing collaborations and executing their final looks. ESMOD Kuala Lumpur remains committed to providing a platform for students to proudly showcase the skills and knowledge they have cultivated through years of creative exploration, brought to life in stunning runway presentations.
Following the graduate fashion show, the evening culminated in an award presentation ceremony. The prestigious “Coup de Coeur” Award—given to the collection that captured the hearts of the jury—was awarded to Jacinta Lau Yu Xuan for her collection, “础耻驳耻蝉迟.”
Inspired by sun-kissed moments, sea breezes, coastal textures, and a journey of self-discovery, “础耻驳耻蝉迟” stood out for its emotional depth and artistic expression.
In recognition of her achievement, 91制片厂 editorial team conducted an exclusive interview with Jacinta to learn more about her journey, inspiration, and future aspirations.
1. A Moment of Triumph
Jacinta described her reaction to winning the award as “crazy” and “amazing.”
“I’m so happy and so excited!”
She humbly credited her success to the people who supported her throughout her journey, including her photographers, models, videographers, and especially her parents.
“My parents have worked so hard to give me the opportunity to study, and I’m very grateful to them.”
2. A Passion That Began Early
Jacinta’s journey into fashion design began at just nine years old, when she developed a strong fascination with clothing and creativity.
She started by hand-sewing T-shirts and experimenting with designs, driven purely by curiosity and passion. By the age of 16 or 17, she had already launched a small brand and began freelancing—even before fully mastering sewing techniques.
Her story reflects a strong belief:
“If you have passion, you can succeed in anything.”

3. Why The One Academy?
Choosing The One Academy (TOA) was a natural and confident decision for Jacinta.
Her choice was strongly influenced by her family—her cousins and aunt had previously studied at the academy. Their positive experiences, combined with the institution’s strong reputation in the creative arts, made it an easy choice.
“It’s so popular, and I felt it was the best.”
She also appreciated the unique learning opportunities and programs offered, which she felt provided the right environment to grow creatively and professionally.
4. Looking Ahead: Building a Future in Fashion
Jacinta is determined to continue growing—not just as a designer, but as a future entrepreneur.
She plans to deepen her knowledge in the business and management side of the fashion industry, while continuing to explore different creative directions.
Her long-term vision is clear:
To build her own brand and create something she can truly call her own.
Closing Insight
Jacinta’s journey is a powerful reminder that passion, perseverance, and the right environment can shape extraordinary outcomes. From a young girl hand-sewing T-shirts to an award-winning designer, her story is both inspiring and relatable for aspiring creatives.
About ESMOD Kuala Lumpur
ESMOD Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with The One Academy (TOA), brings over 180 years of French fashion education heritage to Malaysia. Founded in 1841 by Alexis Guerre-Lavigne—the inventor of the soft measuring tape and pioneer of modern pattern-making—ESMOD is recognised as the world’s first fashion school, with a global network of campuses across 13 countries. As the only Paris-based fashion design school in Malaysia, ESMOD KL combines TOA’s “Masters Train Masters” philosophy with ESMOD Paris’s industry-proven curriculum, offering students a unique blend of creative design, technical pattern-making, and real-world fashion experience. With French expertise, international standards, and hands-on training, the programme is designed to nurture future fashion designers who are ready to meet the demands of the global fashion industry.
Source: This press release on the student graduation event was produced by the91制片厂 editorial team
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