My grandmother taught me how to sew when I was six--we used to have these little lessons with needle, thread, and her machine nearly every time I saw her. Alongside her wisdom, she passed down to me a love for creation. I graduated high school with this aspiration in mind, and leapt head-first into Columbia College to become well acquainted with the business and artistic aspects of the industry. I had resolved myself to own my place in the fashion industry. And in founding BGDC years after that life changing decision, I chose to instill in my mentees the ambition, dedication, confidence, knowledge and skill I had to build from scratch to make it to where I am now.

I am a Cocktail Evening Wear Special Occasions Designer. I learned to use a sewing machine in high school--I found myself taking that course very seriously and gained a passion for the art. My talents blossomed into an emerging business in 2011. I mentor because I want to pass on information about sewing and help build confidence, neither of which were handed to me on my own journey.

I am a connoisseur of all things fashion and technology. Since I was a youth, I’ve had an undeniable affinity towards art. My elders and role models guided me in the direction of fashion. Today, I hold an unconditional love and loyalty for the art, as it helped me gain confidence and express who I am. I mentor because I want to guide fellow fashion enthusiasts on their journeys through this ever evolving fashion world.

I have 8 years of experience in production, design and garment construction. I first was inspired to pursue Fashion when I was 11 years old, by barbie dolls. My mom had bought me two barbies and did not buy me any extra clothes for them – so I used to hand-make clothes from napkins and felt fabric. What I enjoy most about this field is the ability for us to be ourselves and express without having to speak. My motivation comes from culture and travel. I am inspired to be a mentor because I would love to give someone an experience that I never had before. I’d love to be able to help someone escape their homes to do something that is therapeutic, educational and over all, can become a career for them. My mentee can expect to gain valuable insight, career advising, and professional knowledge and skills that can be vital in the fashion industry.

I am a Custom Designer from Brooklyn, NY; I have been sewing since I was 13 years old. I was inspired by my seamstress aunt. As a child, I sat in her studio while she created-- I remember taking the scraps of fabric to make clothing for my dolls. I mentor because we don’t have many outlets for young girls in black communities. My mentee can expect my help with sewing, sketching, draping, as well as guidance through some of life’s challenges.

I am a Fashion Designer from Milwaukee, who moved to New York City. I've always been a lover of fashion but never knew the first step to pursuing an actual career in this industry. After working in retail for some years, I decided to start my own fashion business. I wish I had someone who looked like me, to hold me accountable and guide me through my journey, back then. I mentor because it is important to me, to be that someone for my mentees-- to motivate and lead others in the fashion world.

I was raised by a strict but nurturing grandmother, who structured our days with academics and sewing. It wasn't until the birth of my daughter, in May of 2012, that I was ready to take my craft more seriously. Hatchers.Inc was founded 8 years ago. As a mentor, I want to inspire and help young girls flourish and grow in not only self-confidence, but in fashion knowledge.

I am an accomplished veteran Custom Designer. As a child, my dream was to be a teacher that dressed like she was on a catwalk. My desire to be affiliated with fashion and education simultaneously, has led me to working in both fields for over a decade. I mentor because I am an advocate of the advancement and nourishment of our youth and subsequent communities.