Berkeley College recently began a collaboration with The Brooklyn Fashion Incubator, Inc. (BFI) to further experiential learning opportunities for its students in the Fashion Merchandising and Management program.
The mission of the nonprofit BFI is to mentor emerging fashion entrepreneurs in the United States, helping them to achieve professional growth and business development. The partnership was announced at a Global Fashion Collaborative focused on global business, sustainability and technology, held in Brooklyn, New York.
Through the collaboration, Berkeley College students will shadow BFI executives in their daily roles and potentially gain internships with BFI.
A fashion show during the event highlighted fibers and textiles from participating countries, including Ireland, Peru, Mexico, Colombia and Canada. BFI also welcomed Mayor John Moran of Limerick, Ireland, who will partner with BFI to develop a fashion incubator in Limerick. Gerald Angley, the Consul General of Ireland in New York, also attended.
“We are grateful to the Fashion Merchandising and Management program at Berkeley College for supporting our nonprofit organization’s 10th anniversary event,” said Maria Barraza, executive director, BFI. “We look forward to expanding our collaboration as BFI pursues its mission with our global initiatives by impacting emerging entrepreneurs around the world in the fashion industry.”
Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough President, presented a proclamation to BFI for its efforts in the nonprofit space.
“The Brooklyn Fashion Incubator’s Global Fashion Collaborative sets the stage for where fashion is headed by connecting industry stakeholders, including those in academia,” said Patricia Greer, JD, provost, Berkeley College.
“The Berkeley College Fashion Merchandising and Management program blends creativity with a strong business foundation, so our graduates can support brands and retailers in staying profitable while delivering exceptional fashion products. Berkeley College is pleased to partner with The Brooklyn Fashion Incubator as it supports the designers of tomorrow.”
Berkeley College has campuses in New York City and in Newark, Woodbridge, and Woodland Park, N.J., with over 4,000 students enrolled.
