The Future of Fashion Starts Here
Help Us Launch Our Spring 2026 Cohort
Our mission is to empower the next generation of Black fashion creatives through resources, mentorship, and opportunities.
Hems & Brims is a fiscally sponsored project of Community Initiatives. Through our virtual mentorship program, we connect Black teens ages 14–18 with industry professionals, culturally affirming education, and real pathways to thrive in fashion.
We believe mentorship changes everything, especially when it comes from people who understand your journey and can open doors that have been historically closed.
We're building a fashion industry where Black creatives lead, innovate, and thrive without barriers. And it starts with the students we serve today.
Our Impact
✨ Connected Black teens globally with
industry mentors and professionals Our students aren't just learning about fashion, they're preparing to lead it. Through our comprehensive 6-month virtual program, they're gaining technical skills, forging industry connections, and positioning themselves to shape the future of fashion.
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How Your Funds Will Be Used
 | We need your help to launch our Spring 2026 cohort. In March 2026, we're launching our most ambitious program yet—with an updated curriculum, new student portal, alumni opportunities, and expanded career readiness opportunities. But we can't do it without you. Your donation will directly fund:
Donor Updates: We'll keep you informed every step of the way with quarterly progress reports, student success stories, and program milestone updates via email.
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Will you help us reach our $20,000 goal by March 5th, 2026?
Whether you contribute $25 or $2,500, you're investing in a young person's dreams and fashion's future. You're saying that Black creativity belongs at the center of this industry, not on the margins.
Can't donate right now? Share our campaign with your network. Follow us on social media. Help us spread the word that the future of fashion starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do you serve?
Black teens ages 14-18 who are interested in pursuing a career
in fashion. No prior experience required.
How does the virtual program work?
Students access our curriculum through our online portal and
participate in a 6-month virtual program covering Black fashion
history, sustainable fashion, business fundamentals, and essential
skills like sewing, design, and pattern making. They connect with
industry professionals through one-on-one mentorship sessions,
collaborate on alumni-led research projects, and participate in career
readiness events that provide the knowledge and connections to
confidently build their careers in fashion. The program runs for 6
months with approximately 60 total hours of engagement.
What makes Hems & Brims different?
We're culturally specific, fully virtual (no geographic
barriers), and focused on both creative and business skills. Our
mentors and instructors are Black industry professionals who
understand the unique challenges and opportunities our students face.
We also provide hands-on resources like sewing machines and materials.
How will my donation be used?
Donations will go toward curriculum development, technology
platforms, student resources (sewing machines, kits, fabric),
internship opportunities, and career readiness programming.
Can I get involved beyond donating?
Yes! We're always looking for volunteers, and advocates. Visit
www.hemsandbrims.com/get-involved to learn more
about partnership opportunities.
Program Launch: March 7, 2026
Program Duration: March 7 - August 30, 2026
Fundraising Deadline: March 5, 2026
Goal: $20,000 to fully fund our Spring 2026 cohort
Questions? Visit www.hemsandbrims.com/overview to learn more about our program, or contact us directly at info@hemsandbrims.com
Please make checks payable to:
Community Initiatives- 6470 [Hems & Brims]
PO Box
45515
San Francisco, CA 94145-0515
