Briana Burton, a Temple University graduate with a BA in Strategic Communications, boasts a decade of experience in youth engagement through nonprofit organizations and schools. In 2019, Briana founded Hems & Brims, a virtual mentorship program empowering Black teenagers aspiring to enter the fashion industry by connecting them with industry professionals. Committed to bridging fashion’s disparity gap, Hems & Brims offers invaluable resources, connections, and unwavering support. Concurrently, Briana serves as a Project Manager and Sewing Instructor, nurturing young talent in the Atlanta, Georgia area.

Nicole Finigan Ndzibah has had an impressive career in the fashion retail industry, including working for renowned companies such as The Gap, Talbots, Macy's, and Tommy Hilfiger, Nicole honed her skills in merchandising, retail development, and training divisions. Moreover, she was an adjunct professor at FIT and LIM College, where she shared her expertise with aspiring industry professionals.

In 2022, Nicole was named the Inaugural Executive Director of the Social Justice Center at SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology. She understands firsthand the obstacles faced by BIPOC youth, college students, and working professionals in creative fields, and in this role, she strives to provide opportunities for career development and education to creatives of color. Nicole oversees various programs and scholarships aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Nicole holds two undergraduate degrees from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI, and an MBA from Suffolk University - Sawyer Business School in Boston, MA. She is a Brooklyn, NY native who resides in Westchester County, NY where she gives back to her community through several local and national organizations.

Namasha Schelling is the Program Director at Creatives Want Change (CWC). She has over 15 years of professional experience in nonprofit communications, operations, and fundraising. As a mission-driven professional, and volunteer on several Boards and Committees, Namasha believes that a strong public education system is essential to the prosperity of our country and to the development of an informed and engaged democracy.

Originally from Switzerland and Tanzania, she brings her global perspective to the table and embraces the concept of Ubuntu, an African proverb that states: “I am because we are: we are because I am.” It speaks to the interconnectedness and responsibility that we have for each other and a shared community that doesn’t leave anyone behind. For too long, Black creatives have been left behind, CWC wants to change this by cultivating Black talent beginning at the high school level and continuing into early professional development.

Von Childs, aka Travon Bracey, is a Creative Director and Wardrobe Stylist. With roots in Atlanta, he began his career in journalism before transitioning to fashion at 17. Notable achievements include co-founding Africa Fashion Week and establishing ArtREV & Co.

Von holds degrees in Fashion Merchandising and Fashion Marketing & Management. He has garnered recognition for his work in visual merchandising, film, and fashion, earning accolades such as Best Visual Store Design of Excellence from Gap, Inc. Currently, he leads ArtREV & Co. and serves in various creative roles in the fashion industry.

Ngolela is an international cut-and-sew fashion designer and fashion stylist. Her interest in fashion started when she was a little girl watching her mom sewing on her machine. The desire to create grew over the years and has taken her worldwide! From the pages of British Vogue and runways in and outside the US, her designs have been loved by many. In 2022, she was invited to be a fashion mentor for Hems & Brims. The following year, she taught a virtual sewing class to students all over the world! In 2023, she was approached by SHEIN to design her own capsule collection. This is the first time her designs have been mass produced and available globally with the click of a button.

Randee Grant, the youth development program coordinator at SEED Public School of DC, is a multifaceted force in arts and cultural literacy. With a background in choreography and theater, her passion permeates every facet of her work. As the founder of Kebuka Arts Theater and Fashion Inspired Teens (F.I.T.), she has created platforms that nurture creativity and empower young individuals by exploring art, culture, and identity. These initiatives exemplify her dedication to fostering environments where art transcends traditional boundaries, facilitating emotional exploration and social connection.