RAISEfashion x ARF Internship

As part of RAISEfashion’s mission to promote inclusivity and racial equity within the fashion industry, we are proud to partner with the Antiracism Fund (ARF) to launch our 2025 comprehensive 10-week professional development program. This initiative engages Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to create meaningful internship opportunities for students who identify as Black, serving as an influential step toward building a career in fashion.  

In our ongoing effort to help students overcome barriers to entry in the fashion industry, this program provides exceptional learning experiences at leading companies in New York City and Los Angeles. Internships span a wide variety of business functions, including buying, planning, e-commerce, finance, merchandising, digital marketing, operations, product design, public relations, sales, and social media.  

We are currently reviewing applications for the 2025 program. Students will be selected based on prior work and academic experience, their personal application, and their demonstrated passion for engaging with the fashion and retail industry. RAISEfashion will collaborate with each participating company to match top-qualified candidates to roles, ensuring a mutually impactful experience for both interns and companies.  

This program underscores our commitment to fostering meaningful opportunities that drive change and build the next generation of leaders in the fashion industry.  

PROGRAM BENEFITS

  • Paid Internship: Internship (in-person, hybrid, or both) with one of our corporate partners. All internships will be paid.  

  • Stipend: A cost-of-living stipend to help defray summer living expenses will be disbursed directly to 2025 summer interns by ARF in the form of a grant. Final grant amounts will be determined at the close of fundraising initiatives by March 31, 2025. While there will be no withholdings from the stipend, the stipend received may be taxable income, in whole or in part, for the recipient. We encourage stipend recipients to seek advice from a qualified tax professional.  

  • Mentorship: Dedicated RAISEfashion Mentor to provide mentorship throughout the duration of the internship program.  

  • “Buddy” Program: Dedicated individuals from ARF will be available to each intern to provide peer-to-peer advice.  

  • Education: RAISEfashion will host monthly programming and networking events with industry experts and leaders.  

  • Networking: Opportunities to interact with industry professionals and peers.  



REQUIREMENTS

  • Full-time undergraduate student. Rising junior, senior, or graduating senior at one of the educational institutions listed below. Expected graduation date in 2025-2027

    • Participating HBCUs

      • Bowie State University

      • Delaware State University

      • Florida A&M University

      • Howard University

      • Morehouse College

      • Norfolk State University

      • North Carolina A&T State University

      • North Carolina Central University

      • Spelman College

      • Tennessee State University

      • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

      • University of Maryland Eastern Shore

  • At least 30 credit hours completed and in good standing with your school.

  • Authentic desire and clear interest in pursuing a career in the fashion industry.

  • Willingness to relocate to New York City or Los Angeles to participate in any in-person opportunities as may be required by the internship.

  • Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

  • 18 years of age or older.



TIMELINE

  • Submission Deadline: January 10, 2025

  • Decisions Made By: March 21, 2025



*BEFORE YOU APPLY

Applications now closed.

Intern Testimonials