During a career that has spanned 30 years, Susan Langdon has demonstrated the kind of enthusiasm and devotion to the fashion industry that has garnered constant recognition.
A native Torontonian, Susan graduated from the Fashion Design program at Ryerson University in 1977. Throughout a fulfilling 17-year career in fashion design, Susan received a number of prestigious design awards including the Concours Design Award and the Woolmark Award of Distinction.
In 1994, Susan's strong interpersonal skills and leadership qualities, coupled with a comprehensive knowledge of the fashion industry and previous teaching experience, led her to her current position as Executive Director of the Toronto Fashion Incubator (TFI).
Her dedication to the Incubator and efforts to nurture, support and promote new, up-coming design talent has assisted in launching the careers of many now-known Canadian designers. She has generated media coverage from Toronto, New York, Dusseldorf, Dublin and Capetown which has raised the profile of the TFI and heightened international awareness of Toronto's vibrant design community.
This on-going commitment to Canada's fashion industry distinguishes her career and efforts. In 1996, Susan was honoured by her peers with the City of Toronto's, Excellence in Fashion, Industry Achievement Award. Following this prestigious honour, Susan received Ryerson University's Alumni Award of Distinction in 1998 and was selected as one of the first twelve alumni inducted into the university's Hall of Fame. In 2005, Susan received the JoAnna Townsend Award from the Organization of Women in International Trade. The award recognizes one outstanding woman in Ontario, who through her business and personal networks fosters opportunities that actively support women entrepreneurs to achieve success in international business.
As Executive Director, Susan is responsible for the daily operation and management of the TFI and its programs, including all financial and organizational administration, promotion and marketing, fundraising, reviewing Resident applications, providing business consultations to TFI Resident members and developing and overseeing special events.