Mentoring the Future of Fashion
Mentoring the Future of Fashion
Breaking into the fashion industry can be a daunting challenge, particularly for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Without the right guidance, connections, and insight into how the industry operates, many talented creatives struggle to navigate their way in. This is where Fashion Minority Report’s mentoring scheme plays a crucial role, offering both mentees and mentors a transformative experience that goes beyond traditional networking.
For mentees, the programme provides invaluable industry insights, career guidance, and personal support from seasoned professionals who have already forged their paths. Whether it’s understanding how to break into a specific sector, refining their creative vision, or learning how to navigate challenges such as rejection and career uncertainty, mentees gain practical knowledge and confidence to take their next steps.
For mentors, the experience is equally rewarding. Beyond the opportunity to give back, mentoring reshapes their own perspectives, offering them fresh insights into the new generation of fashion talent. Many mentors find that working with mentees reignites their passion for the industry, reminding them of their own journeys and the hurdles they overcame.
In this piece, we hear from mentors who have participated in Fashion Minority Report’s mentoring scheme. They share their motivations, the unexpected lessons they’ve learned, and how the experience has shaped their own personal and professional growth. Their reflections offer a powerful testament to the mutual benefits of mentorship and why fostering the next generation of fashion professionals is essential for a more inclusive and forward-thinking industry.
What motivated you to become a mentor?
I became a mentor because I understand, firsthand, the barriers that ethnic minority individuals face in industries like fashion. Having navigated prejudice, unconscious bias, and systemic challenges throughout my own career, I wanted to be the kind of support I wish I had when I was starting out.
What is one key lesson you learned from your mentee that you didn’t expect?
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is how much resilience and adaptability the younger generation brings to the table. My mentee has a fresh, fearless approach to tackling industry norms, particularly around diversity and representation. While I’ve spent years pushing through barriers, she challenges them outright, refusing to accept the status quo.
How has mentoring shaped your own career or personal development?
On a personal level, mentoring has made me a better leader. It has sharpened my ability to listen, to provide thoughtful guidance, and to be open to new perspectives. It has also reminded me that my own journey—challenges included—has value beyond my own success; it can serve as a roadmap for others.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a mentor?
You don’t need to have all the answers to be a great mentor. What matters most is your willingness to listen, to share your experiences honestly, and to support your mentee in finding their own path. In the end, mentoring isn’t just about giving—it’s a two-way exchange that will challenge and inspire you just as much as it benefits your mentee.
What motivated you to become a mentor?
I’ve been so lucky to have some great mentors in my life and I wanted to be able to help people that weren’t just friends within my network.
What is one key lesson you learned from your mentee that you didn’t expect?
Great question! I’ve learned so much about the rawness of the creative mind and how to communicate with creatives effectively. My role sits between creative and business side of fashion, and working with a design student who’s never been in the industry workplace before was a great reminder of how differently that type of brain thinks—and what actually resonates.
How has mentoring shaped your own career or personal development?
It’s definitely made me realise how crucial communication and confidence are for everyone, no matter what stage they’re at. It’s been a great reminder of the impact clear guidance and encouragement can have.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a mentor?
If you’ve got the time, I’d 100% say go for it! You get just as much out of it as the mentee—it’s a genuinely rewarding experience and gives you a fresh perspective too.
What motivated you to become a mentor?
I’m inspired by stories, cultures, and understanding different backgrounds. With a psychology background, I know how information shapes communication and enhances teamwork. I was pre-selected and matched with my mentee—turns out, we had similar goals, making the journey even more meaningful.
What is one key lesson you learned from your mentee that you didn’t expect?
The power of personal connection. In work, we often focus on strategy and analytics to achieve goals, but true mentorship happens when we go beyond that—when we take the time to connect one-on-one, beyond just the professional lens.
How has mentoring shaped your own career or personal development?
I have two executive mentors and a life mentor who shape my thinking. I also follow leaders across different fashion fields to see the bigger picture. I don’t reinvent the wheel—I observe, ask, and learn from those who have already paved the way.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a mentor?
Lead with empathy. Listen deeply. Recognise patterns to align goals. Focus on strengths and channel them effectively. Most importantly—ask for feedback; it’s how both you and your mentee grow.
What motivated you to become a mentor?
I was keen to spend time understanding the challenges of those from the new generation and up-and-coming talent.
What is one key lesson you learned from your mentee that you didn’t expect?
Similar challenges to those I faced – overwhelmed by which path to choose – feelings of rejection and that I’d never make it
How has mentoring shaped your own career or personal development?
It’s helped me build my empathy for those around me. It’s given me perspective about my own path as well.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a mentor?
Highly recommend, it is equal humbling and also useful to help build your empathy and understanding of those looking to jump onto the ladder.
Mentoring applications are now open for Cohort 9! This is your chance to be matched with an industry professional for one-on-one mentoring and guidance over 16 weeks.
Whether you’re just starting out in the fashion industry or at a career crossroads, this programme offers valuable support to help you navigate your next steps.
Don’t miss this opportunity—apply now!
