Graduate Fashion Foundation announces collaboration with Gap Inc for Class of 2021

Graduate Fashion Foundation has announced that it will be collaborating with Gap Inc., as it look to scale its successful Graduate Fashion Mentoring Programme to support the Class of 2021.

The mentoring programme is aimed to provide support for the Graduates as they enter the fashion industry by pairing them with a long-term experienced industry mentor. Graduate Fashion Foundation believes that the mentoring programme and the help of dedicated mentors can improve the skills of talented, young graduates helping them towards achieving successful careers.

As part of the programme, mentors will guide the graduate on their next career steps, identifying goals and targets to work towards and achieving aspirations. The mentors also give first-hand advice on overcoming obstacles and being in professional environment, sharing their personal experiences.

Joy Campbell, Director of Brand Partnerships at Graduate Fashion Foundation revealed the news, commenting: “We are absolutely delighted that Gap Inc have partnered with us to enable us to deliver the mentoring programme to more students than ever – at a time when it could not be more needed. The Class of 2021 had their studies greatly affected by the pandemic and are entering a hugely competitive job market, yet the support from Gap Inc means that more of the Class of 2021 will get the invaluable experience of a 1:1 industry mentor – the programme has proven that this kind of support really does make a positive impact on the early careers of our Graduates.

“Not only will Gap Inc. be sharing advice via our digital platforms for those looking for employment in the fashion industry but they will also be supporting by providing mentors from throughout their business that will allow us to work with more graduates than ever before.”

Simon O’Mahony, Director Creative Talent Acquisition, Gap Inc, added: “The impact of the pandemic on the Graduate Fashion Week participants was tremendous, and students missed out on the opportunity to engage with and learn from fashion industry leaders through this program. As the world begins to turn the corner, Gap Inc. is doubling down on its support of GFW in deeper and more meaningful ways - supporting early career growth of GFW graduates through our new, more robust mentoring program.

“We are proud to offer one-on-one mentoring opportunities with diverse, emerging designers across all four of our purpose-driven lifestyle brands – Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta - that will give emerging design talent the chance to learn from seasoned professionals and build the foundations they need to succeed in the industry.”

The Graduate Fashion Foundation is the world’s largest platform for BA Fashion talent with an annual event taking place at Coal Drops Yard, London.