YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund Summer Kick Off Week officially began with the first annual Mentor Mixer, held on Tuesday, June 7th. As guests arrived at the breathtaking Hearst Tower, they were ushered toward the escalators alongside cascading glass waterfalls. Upon arrival on the 44th floor, attendees were welcomed by Glen Ellen Brown, Vice President of Brand Development at Hearst Magazines. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were served as YMA FSF Scholars, Alumni, the Board of Governors, and industry executives made introductions and admired the view of the city from above.

Lively chatter filled the room as Mentors and YMA FSF Scholars, in the city for summer internships, met for the first time. Besides having the opportunity to meet their assigned Mentor in person, Scholars had the chance to network with influential leaders from design, business, technology, and many more areas of the fashion industry. In the relaxed atmosphere, seasoned YMA FSF Alumni and supporters shared their experiences in the industry and asked the new Scholars what they could do to help them advance in the fashion world. Scholars shared their career aspirations with Mentors, who, in turn, introduced them to people working in their areas of interest. Job-seekers used the event as an opportunity to get their foot in the door by introducing themselves to executives from dozens of prestigious fashion companies. For many of the students visiting New York for the first time, and the event also served as an opportunity for building relationships with peers in the city.

The YMA FSF’s mentorship program is growing exponentially each year. It is one of the many ways the organization provides career assistance to Scholars and Alumni.

In addition to internships, breakfasts with senior fashion executives and influencers, and the Winter Institute, YMA FSF Scholars fill out a survey to determine their best fit for a mentor, and receive introductory emails once mentorship placements are made. Mentors volunteer their time and make themselves available to answer questions and help mentees in any way they can. The Mentor Mixer is just the beginning of many invaluable relationships built through the Mentor program, and a great way to kick off a summer-long series of events designed to help YMA FSF scholars achieve their career goals.

Thank you to Hearst Foundation for your continued generosity and support!

Katherine Manson, 2016 YMA FSF Scholar