Researcher fighting for fair fashion named emerging leader

23 Apr 2026

Amy Benstead, whose work has shaped national and international supply chain policy for the fashion industry, appointed member of UK Young Academy.

A Manchester academic whose work has shaped national and international anti-slavery policy in the fashion industry has been appointed a member of UK Young Academy.

Dr Amy Benstead, Senior Lecturer in Fashion Management in the Department of Materials, is one of 22 new members to join 141 emerging leaders in the Academy, established by the Royal Society in 2022.

Her research investigates supply chain practices behind the global fashion industry, promoting sustainable practices, examining forced labour and modern slavery risks, and representation of workers’ rights throughout worldwide systems of supply.

Informed by her industry background and commitment to driving meaningful change across policy, industry and society, Amy aims to advance social justice in global fashion supply chains. She specialises in ethical and sustainable supply chain management, and critically examining the social inequalities embedded in global production systems.

Her work has shaped national and international policy, including contributions to UK government consultations and standards such as BS 25700 and ISO 37200. Most recently, she led a Leverhulme Trust–funded project on worker voice in Leicester’s garment industry.

“It’s great to be part of this incredible community that’s committed to addressing societal and global challenges, including amplifying unheard and underrepresented voices,” Amy said.

“I had the chance to meet other members this week and came away inspired by the diversity of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. I am excited to see what we can achieve together.”

The new members of the UK Young Academy have been selected for their track records of excellence in their respective fields, from global fashion supply chains and AI in drug discovery to paediatrics and infectious diseases.

They attended the New Member’s Induction and All Member’s Meeting at the Royal Academy of Engineering and The Royal Society, their first opportunity to connect and exchange aspirations. Membership runs for five years.

Linda Oyama, representative of the UK Young Academy Executive Group said: “When we set out the UK Young Academy's 2023–2028 Strategic Plan, one of our core missions was to convene diverse voices to share ideas and improve decision-making, and to develop, connect, and mobilise early-career talent.”