REDA is proud to present the 2025 edition of the “From Sheep to Shop” Internship Program, a five-month immersive journey that explores every stage of Reda’s vertically integrated wool supply chain. From the sheep farms of New Zealand to the textile mills of Italy, this unique opportunity is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of wool ambassadors, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship.

Meet the Interns

Lily Gamble (New Zealand)
I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Canterbury, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Entrepreneurship. I’ve always been passionate about sustainability, ethical business, and fashion, and this internship is the perfect intersection of those interests.
Coming from a family connected to the wool industry, I’ve grown up with a deep respect for the work and care involved in wool production. My background in luxury fashion retail also shaped my love for textiles and design. Reda’s values strongly align with my goals, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be learning from a company that leads with both quality and environmental responsibility.

Abigail Ardron (Australia)
After completing my degree in Fashion and Textiles Design, I was eager to deepen my exploration of sustainable innovation through natural fibres. My honours thesis focused on this theme, and the opportunity to join Reda felt like a natural next step.

Although I had limited experience in the wool industry prior to this internship, I’ve already gained valuable insight into the craftsmanship and creative thinking that drive it forward. Working with Reda has given me a clearer vision of how I want to contribute to positive change in the fashion world.

Our Journey So Far

Our internship began in New Zealand, where we spent time on Reda’s Otamatapaio, Glenburn, and Rugged Ridges farms. There, we had hands-on experience with merino sheep farming and learned about the standards required for ZQ and ZQRX certifications, which emphasize animal welfare, regenerative practices, and fibre quality.

We then spent a week with New Zealand Merino (NZM), exploring how they’ve shifted the wool market from traditional auctions to contract-based models. Through visits to wool stores, testing facilities, and dye houses, we built a solid foundation in the commercial side of wool processing.

Once in Italy, we joined Reda’s team at the Romagnano Sesia facilities. We explored every major stage of production, from combing and dyeing to spinning, twisting, warping, and weaving, gaining hands-on knowledge of each process. Seeing the level of skill and precision involved has been both inspiring and eye-opening.

A Transformative Experience

Interning at Reda has been an incredible opportunity, and we, Lily and Abi, feel truly fortunate to be part of it. As two young women passionate about sustainability in textiles and fashion, with a strong appreciation for craftsmanship, we’ve been honored to learn from Reda’s extensive expertise in wool fibre artistry.

Coming from smaller countries with developing textile industries, this experience has given us a unique perspective on centuries-old traditions in manufacturing. Our time in New Zealand introduced us to the origins of wool, and in Italy we’ve witnessed the remarkable care and attention that go into transforming that raw material into premium fabrics.

Throughout every stage, we’ve seen the pride and dedication that each member of the Reda team brings to their role. This meticulous approach to sourcing and production is what sets Reda apart and contributes to the exceptional quality of its textiles.

We’ve also felt warmly welcomed from the very first day. The team has encouraged our curiosity, supported our learning, and helped us connect with a passionate and forward-thinking community. This journey has strengthened our belief in the future of sustainable fashion and deepened our admiration for Reda’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

We’re excited to continue this path and look forward to everything we’ll learn in the months ahead.