Empower Black Fashion Creatives
As a fiscally sponsored project of Community Initiatives, Hems & Brims empowers Black creatives to excel in the fashion industry by providing resources, mentorship, and professional and educational opportunities.
Our goal is to close the disparity gap and dismantle systemic barriers to entry, fostering a more equitable future for Black talent within our organization and the broader community.
Black creatives continue to face barriers to entering and advancing in the fashion industry, from limited access to industry knowledge and professional networks to the financial and educational resources needed to build sustainable careers. Hems & Brims works to address these gaps by creating opportunities for Black creatives to learn, connect, and develop their careers.
OUR IMPACT
Since launching in 2019, Hems & Brims has created opportunities for Black creatives to build their knowledge, skills, and professional foundation in fashion while gaining access to resources and industry connections. In summer 2021, we began accepting students into our virtual programs, initially offering eight-week cohorts.
In summer 2026, we expanded our programming with the launch of our first six-month cohort. The extended program gives students more time to engage in fashion education, mentorship, and career development while building relationships with peers and industry professionals.
Our work is also expanding beyond the U.S., with Hems & Brims reaching Black creatives in Ghana through international partnerships and programming. This expansion creates opportunities for Black creatives to connect, learn from one another, and engage with fashion education across borders.
Your support helps make this work possible, from providing students with educational resources and mentorship to creating opportunities for professional and industry exposure.
Every contribution helps us continue building pathways for Black creatives to access the knowledge, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive in fashion.
Thank you for supporting Hems & Brims and helping us create more equitable opportunities for Black creatives in fashion.
Checks can be mailed to:
Please make checks payable to Community Initiatives and include Hems & Brims in the memo line.
Community Initiatives
PO Box 45515
San Francisco,
CA 94145-0515
