Meet Kaleyce
“Hems & Brims taught me that there’s no limit to what I can achieve as a young Black woman in the fashion industry. It not only offered me a platform for networking with like-minded individuals but also gave me the confidence to pursue a career in fashion. Learning from industry experts who look like me inspired and motivated me to believe that I, too, can succeed.” - Kaleyce Majeed
At Hems & Brims, our mission is to empower students to reach their fullest potential in fashion and beyond. Kaleyce’s journey perfectly embodies this mission, and we’re proud to have played a role in her development as a future leader in the fashion industry.
Eighteen-year-old Kaleyce Majeed, a talented designer and freshman at Drexel University majoring in Fashion Design, joined our Summer 2024 cohort with a strong drive to push her fashion aspirations further.
A Driven Journey
Kaleyce’s passion for fashion began at the age of six, but it wasn’t until she mentored under renowned designer Whitney Manney that she realized her aspirations were within reach. Zayna shared, “Watching Ms. Manney work in her own studio, taking her designs from concept to selling them, gave me the courage and inspiration to know that success is possible for Black creatives in fashion.”
Building on this inspiration, her commitment to growth and dedication became evident early on. During her time in our program, she was also accepted into Creatives Want Change (CWC), a non-profit organization dedicated to cultivating Black creative talent. Through Creatives Want Change, Kaleyce was awarded funding to travel to Paris, where she immersed herself in the study of Fashion Design and French Culture. This international experience strengthened her determination to make a lasting impact in the fashion industry.
Back at home, Kaleyce continued her journey with Hems & Brims, attending weekend courses and engaging in weekly 1:1 mentorship sessions. These experiences allowed her to further hone her skills and deepen her understanding of the fashion industry.
“I’m striving to immerse myself in every aspect of the fashion world—lifestyle marketing, brand strategy, market expansion, and more. Hems & Brims did just that, connecting me with experts who taught me about fashion, culture, identity, and sustainability,” Kaleyce shared.
Her participation in both Creatives Want Change and Hems & Brims speaks to her unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth. Reflecting on her time with us, Kaleyce said, “Hems & Brims provided me with guidance, support, and knowledge transfer—three things I greatly value.”
Staying Motivated
Kaleyce draws motivation from the work of her favorite designers, including Christopher John Rogers, Guo Pei, and Daniel Roseberry, as well as from her own creations.
“Reviewing my past creations allows me to challenge myself to dream bigger and create more. I also live by core values like discipline, integrity, humility, compassion, and courage. Living by these values enriches my life and inspires those I connect with,” Kaleyce explained.
Experience with Hems & Brims
During her time with us, Kaleyce worked closely with her mentor, Tieisha Mitchell. One of her proudest accomplishments was creating an updated project portfolio.
“My mentor taught me that portfolios can outline creative ideas, present them to investors, or share a vision with a design team—they’re not just for college applications or scholarships. After learning this, I better organized my creative ideas and created a professional portfolio that reflects my vision.”
Kaleyce’s relationship with her mentor didn’t end when the program concluded. She continues to stay in touch, receiving ongoing advice and support as she navigates her journey in the fashion industry.
“Hems & Brims gave me the knowledge, support, and encouragement I needed to grow, and I’m truly grateful that my mentor continues to be a resource for me. Her ongoing advice has been invaluable as I pursue my goals.”
What’s Next for Kaleyce
Kaleyce is already setting her sights on new goals, including securing a summer internship in the fashion industry, participating in another study-abroad program, and showcasing her work at Drexel University’s annual Garbage Gala, a sustainable fashion show for first-year students.
Kaleyce’s Advice for Future Hems & Brims Students
“Be excited to learn from industry leaders and share your unique perspective. Don’t be afraid to contribute your ideas during your mentorship.”
Support Students Like Kaleyce
Kaleyce’s story exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship, community, and opportunity in shaping the next generation of Black creatives. By supporting Hems & Brims, you help students like Kaleyce achieve their dreams and create meaningful change in the fashion industry and beyond.
Please consider partnering with us or making a contribution to our organization. Visit our donation page to learn to learn how your support can help us create a more equitable future in fashion for Black talent.