by The Fashion Scholarship Fund has long been a cornerstone for aspiring fashion talent, providing a platform for various students to break into the industry. The 2024 FSF Summer Scholar Series expanded this mission by offering a 10-week virtual program packed with industry insights and career guidance.
The series had two main components: master classes and workforce readiness courses. While the former provided a platform for scholars, applicants and alumni to engage with industry experts on contemporary challenges, the latter delved into the nuances of business strategy, design, marketing and merchandising .
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In a world still adjusting to post-pandemic realities, the FCA has successfully leveraged the power of virtual engagement to unite young students and alumni with the crème de la crème of the fashion world across various disciplines such as business strategy, design , product development, marketing and merchandising. Tiffany & Co., Neiman Marcus Group, Fendi, Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton and WHP convened to enrich the participants’ learning journey, offering insights into industry challenges and career building strategies.
Peter Arnold, executive director of the Fashion Scholarship Fund, reflected on the series’ inception and continued relevance. “The Summer Scholars Series was born out of necessity during the height of the pandemic in 2020. Its evolution into a staple of learning and connection among our community creates pride and satisfaction,” said Arnold. “We are truly grateful to our wonderful speakers and moderators whose valuable insights continue to guide the path of our students.”
The 2024 edition of the SSS was informed by experiences and reflections shared by industry leaders with diverse backgrounds and inspiring achievements. Some highlights:
Advocacy, Passion and Being True to Yourself
In the “Black in Fashion” session with Bethann Hardison, model and fashion activist, and Tonya Blazio-Licorish, WWD archive editor, the two discussed the role of self-awareness, passion and advocacy.
“This is an emerging business, and he’s a big part of that,” Blazio-Licorish said. “A lot of my journey was a choice, it was strategic, it was, ‘Where am I most passionate? How can I bring that passion with me?’ I strayed from design to where I am today, but I brought all that knowledge here, which helps me be a better researcher and makes me want to be more educated and the t -to share that knowledge.”
When asked what designers can take into account when paying homage to past Black designers, Hardison was straightforward. “You’re not a Black designer, you’re a designer,” she said. “And what you want to do is compete with everybody that’s out there. That could be from any country, any background. That’s the most important thing. Whatever you have to bring to the table, bring it because it’s a competitive business.”
Hardison also shared her insights on how intentions change over time. “I think sometimes people come in [the industry] as activists to change something…but then you become a supporter of the situation because you don’t always have to be active in it,” she said.
Empowerment Through Experience and Resilience
Maria Cornejo, a designer from New York, offered candid insights on trusting one’s instincts in an industry often dominated by glitz. Cornejo said that staying grounded and true to the essence of the industry is key amid the industry hype, stressing the value of building a supportive community that grows organically.
When asked to give advice to young talent on how to overcome challenges, Cornejo’s response was heartfelt. “There were many times I wanted to quit, to be honest,” she said. “You have to remember what you got yourself into [fashion] for. Not everyone will have that covenant client business and how you conduct yourself in a very competitive business matters. It’s always about the newest, the youngest, the latest, the loudest. It is the only way you can compete with your [own] creativity and being humble.”
New York-based designer Daniella Kallmeyer shared lessons on persistence and the importance of mentorship, noting that early career mentors can change as people evolve. Colleagues can also be mentors, helping to broaden one’s perspective.
Kallmeyer offered advice to recent graduates trying to navigate the current landscape. “Get in where you can,” Kallmeyer said. “Find out what you love because if you’re really attracted to a certain brand or type of work, go in however you can and be around it.”
Kallmeyer encouraged attendees to find an internship or apprenticeship. “I learned so much not only about the industry, but I had a window into so many different departments and resources,” Kallmeyer said. “Keep a small book of contacts and people you come into contact with. Intern, learn, be humble, but also don’t isolate yourself in the industry. Educational exposure is so important.”
Celebrating Creativity and Authenticity
Designers Christopher John Rogers and Colm Dillane discuss the creative process and how they approach it. Rogers emphasized the importance of a broad perspective in design, noting that designers create lives, not just garments – encouraging aspirants to find inspiration from a variety of sources. Known for his unorthodox approach to fashion, Dillane epitomized the accessibility and democratic nature of fashion.
“I’ve always been really good at drawing and it’s always been art for kids, but it hasn’t always been fashion-driven,” Dillane said of his career path. “I started making these T-shirts where I would draw and spray paint and it [introduced] me to all these different people. He was a great connector. I realized that fashion is the lowest barrier to entry art form: everyone is wearing it, it doesn’t have to be too expensive, and it’s pretty easy to get into – all you need is a T-shirt, a spray can, his stencil and Gildan T — and the whole world opened up to me.”
Rogers said adopting a good research process is key. “One of my formative professors at SCAD wanted us to create a mood board, and he told us, ‘I don’t want to see any runway references. I don’t want to see any fashion references unless they’re archival, and I also want you to think about where this person lives. What are they eating? Where are they traveling? What artwork references are you obsessed with?’ And it really helped expand my view that we’re building a world,” Rogers said. “Something as boring as a line on the street can be a reference.”
Navigating Industry Dynamics with Tenacity and Vision
Stylist Jason Bolden emphasized the importance of vision and voice in carving a fashion niche. Bolden shared his approach to overcoming early career hitches through better planning and self-awareness.
“Everyone is born with that drive and ambition, but it takes a few people in your life to keep igniting and turning it up,” Bolden said. “I was lucky; growing up, I had constant cheerleaders who did that for me: my grandmother, my mother and my god parents. I also created great relationships and friends who became a supportive family.”
When asked what advice he would give his younger self, he said, “It’ll be fine. Don’t rush it. Everything you need is worth the wait. Sometimes, I tell everyone in my office to take a hit and come back. Sometimes you need a friend, sometimes it’s you. You had to pull yourself together and bring yourself back.”
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