Couture Diversity Action Council Mentorship Program Opens Applications for Next Class

The Couture Diversity Action Council has opened up applications for its mentorship program that’s part of the Luminaries by Couture program.

“Our DAC mentorship program aims to identify the best and brightest of BIPOC talent and utilize our combined resources to provide the education, access and information necessary for their success,” explained Eric Ford, precious jewelry buyer for Neiman Marcus and head of the DAC. “The fine jewelry industry already has a high barrier for entry, and while it is that much more challenging for those from marginalized communities, we firmly believe that these voices deserve to be heard. By pairing designers with mentors who complement their strengths, and providing education from experts in their fields in group sessions, we not only arm them with information, we also create opportunities for these individuals to expand their network and their community.”

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The mentorship program runs approximately two years, with participating designers offered the chance to attend the Couture show in Las Vegas in an observational capacity in their first year with the possibility of exhibiting their collections on Couture’s show floor during the second year, guided by their mentors and coached by members of the council and the industry at large.

“We are proud and honored to continue to work to offer greater representation to BIPOC designers and to provide them with the tools they need to bring them to the next level of their careers,” said Gannon Brousseau, director, Couture, executive vice president, Emerald. “Throughout both of our previous mentorship programs, we have been continually impressed with the level of creativity, innovation and talent these designers have showcased, and we are heartened by the level of support members of this community have enthusiastically offered to enhance this program. We look forward to welcoming the next group of mentees.”

According to a statement, the Luminaries by Couture will continue to receive direction and guidance via their mentors and education sessions through the end of this year, including Zoom meet-ups with a select group of designers from the DAC’s first mentorship program, the Radiance by Couture. The designers who make up the Luminaries by Couture are Alexia Connellan, Ama McKinley of Ilium Wing, Bliss Lau, Casey Perez, Hiba Husayni of Zahn-Z Fine Jewelry and Sasha Flynn of Adore-Adorn.

Applications are open now until Oct. 8.

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