As a fiscally sponsored project of Community Initiatives, we empower Black creatives to excel in the fashion industry by providing resources, mentorship, and professional and educational opportunities.
Our goal is to close the disparity gap and dismantle systemic barriers to entry, fostering a more equitable future for Black talent, both within our organization and the broader community.
Resources: We provide essential tools such as sewing machines, kits, and fabric to students who need them, along with access to fashion education courses and collaborative group projects that deepen their skills and knowledge.
Mentorship: Students are paired with fashion industry professionals for weekly one-on-one sessions. Students will collaborate with their mentors on weekly assignments designed to explore their goals, enabling mentors to provide personalized support to help achieve them.
In March 2026, we’ll launch an expanded 6-month mentorship program offering a more comprehensive experience for students. Learn more about the Spring/Fall 2026 cohort here.
Professional & Educational Opportunities: We host virtual events—like workshops, expert talks, and networking sessions—open to our students and the public. Students also gain access to exclusive internships and volunteer opportunities.
Meet our Founder
Briana Burton
Founder & Project Director LinkedIn
Featured In: Voyage ATL & Shoutout Atlanta
Briana Burton, a Temple University graduate with a BA in Strategic Communications, has over a decade of experience in youth engagement through nonprofit organizations and schools. Founded in 2019, Briana established Hems & Brims to break down the systemic barriers preventing Black creatives from entering the fashion industry.
Our mission goes beyond visibility; we focus on cultivating sustainable careers by connecting students with experienced fashion industry professionals who help them develop their skills, build meaningful networks, and shape their legacies in the fashion world.
By elevating and celebrating the rich legacy of Black contributions to the fashion industry, Hems & Brims aims to pave pathways for the next generation of Black creatives to not only enter but transform the industry for years to come.
As the Founder & Project Director of Hems & Brims, Briana is committed to expanding opportunities for Black creatives both inside and outside the core program. In addition to her work with Hems & Brims, Briana is a Sewing Instructor for both youth and adults in Atlanta, Georgia.
Meet our Team
Samantha Little
Fashion Education and Digital Content Intern
Samantha Little is the Fashion Education and Digital Content Intern for Hems & Brims. She is in her final semester at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, where she is studying Fashion Design and building a strong foundation in fashion research and design principles, pattern drafting, technical design, sewing, and draping techniques.
At Hems & Brims, Samantha looks forward to applying her fashion knowledge to develop valuable educational resources, contribute to impactful content, and collaborate with a dedicated team to empower Black creatives in the fashion industry.
In her free time, she enjoys exploring online courses for personal development, traveling to learn about new cultures and fashion trends, and spending quality time with her family. She is excited to bring her skills, dedication, and creativity to Hems & Brims and make a meaningful impact.