The YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund hosted its annual Summer Kickoff Party on Tuesday, June 16th, 2015, at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. In an evening that connected the best and brightest young YMA FSF scholars with some of the most influential leaders in the fashion industry, the SummerKickoff Party proved to be an exceptional networking event filled with excitement, enthusiasm and invaluable opportunity.
As guests congregated in the Broadway Lounge overlooking Times Square, YMA FSF scholars, many of whom are in NYC for the first time fulfilling summer internships with prestigious fashion companies, were captivated by the spectacular views of the city. Floor to ceiling glass windows lined the room and offered a unique perspective of the bustling city below, while bright lights from flashing billboards fueled the energy in the room.
YMA FSF Scholars, Board members and executives conversing over hors d'oeuvres in the Broadway Lounge.
For the more than forty scholars who attended the event, the evening served as a wonderful chance to meet and reconnect with one another, conversing over shared experiences, new internships, career goals and aspirations. As Grace Dusek noted, “After three weeks of settling into the city and my internship, it was fantastic to feel welcomed by the YMA FSF Board Members at the Summer Kickoff Event! Snacking on hors d’oeuvres in the heart of Times Square, the evening was glamorous, yet intimate. I enjoyed meeting new scholars and Board members, and cannot wait to continue fostering these new relationships.”
Beyond connecting with one another, scholars were afforded the opportunity to speak with leading executives from the fashion industry. These individuals, who serve as mentors to the scholars, graciously dedicate their time towards helping our future leaders of fashion on their roads to success, developing their passions and honing their skills. The accessibility of industry executives at the event, and overall caliber of individuals in the room, was nothing short of remarkable. As Oliver Selby noted, “Attending these events and meetings enables me to connect with people in the industry, including our amazing Board members. I am in the process of looking for a job, and YMA FSF has given me the ability to forge long-standing relationships with the right people who are willing to help. For me, the organization is a wonderful support system, one that wants to watch you grow and succeed as an individual in the field of fashion. I am so grateful for everything YMA FSF has done.”
The evening was a wonderful celebration of brilliant minds, creative spirits and unparalleled talent in the industry. Scholar Shota Adamia agreed, stating, “I think that the passion and resourcefulness of all the mentors and Board members, in unison with the wildly talented and motivated group of scholars, created a space with unmatched, challenging and invigorating aura. It is a huge privilege and honor to be a part of the life-changing experience that the organization provides for its scholars, and I do hope that I can stay equally involved in the future by giving back.”
We would like to thank all of the scholars, Board members, mentors and executives who joined us at our Summer Kickoff Party, you truly made the evening a night to remember. We look forward to seeing you at our next networking event!
Copyright © 2015 YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund, All rights reserved.
Meghan Floyd