Berkeley College has launched a new collaboration with The Brooklyn Fashion Incubator, Inc. (BFI) to significantly expand experiential learning opportunities for students in its Fashion Merchandising and Management program. The partnership was formally announced at a Global Fashion Collaborative event held on Oct. 23, in Brooklyn.
The nonprofit BFI is dedicated to mentoring emerging fashion entrepreneurs in the United States, guiding them toward professional growth and business development.
Through this new partnership, Berkeley College students will gain direct exposure to the industry by shadowing BFI executives in their day-to-day roles and will have the opportunity to secure internships with the organization.
Patricia Greer, provost of Berkeley College, emphasized the strategic value of the collaboration.
“The Brooklyn Fashion Incubator’s Global Fashion Collaborative sets the stage for where fashion is headed by connecting industry stakeholders, including those in academia,” Greer said. She added that Berkeley’s program “blends creativity with a strong business foundation so our graduates can support brands and retailers in staying profitable while delivering exceptional fashion products.”
The Global Fashion Collaborative event centered on key industry themes, including global business, sustainability, and technology. The event also featured a fashion show highlighting fibers and textiles from participating international partners, including Ireland, Peru, Mexico, Colombia and Canada.
The global reach of BFI was further underscored by the presence of Mayor John Moran of Limerick, Ireland. Moran announced that the town of Limerick will partner with BFI to develop a fashion incubator in Ireland. Gerald Angley, the Consul General of Ireland in New York, was also in attendance.
Maria Barraza, executive director of BFI, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “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.”
During the event, Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough president, presented a proclamation to BFI, recognizing its impactful work in the nonprofit sector.
