2024: A Year of Growth at CWC

2024 marked a transformative year for Creatives Want Change (CWC). We began by opening our applications to a broader audience, receiving a record-breaking number of submissions from over 40 states and three countries.

The CWC Team & Fellows During our 24’ Reunion

While reviewing applications, we launched our second "Round Up" campaign in partnership with Urban Outfitters. Shoppers were allowed to round up their purchases at checkout, with proceeds coming directly to CWC. Urban Outfitters further demonstrated their support by inviting CWC staff and Fellows to their Black History Month Roller Skating event in Brooklyn. This partnership remains vital in addressing the lack of diversity in fashion leadership roles.

The flyer at every Urban Outfitters registers

After welcoming our new cohort of Fellows, we hosted orientation sessions to introduce them to the resources available at CWC and outlined their responsibilities as Fellows. Shortly after, our pre-college summer programs kicked off, with Fellows traveling nationwide to sharpen their skills at one of our seven academic partner schools.

Year 4 Fellow Gianna from Maryland refined her craft at FIT’s pre-college program in NYC, preparing for her upcoming semester at SCAD in Georgia. Fellow Nicolas journeyed from Virginia to California to attend the California College of Arts (CCA) pre-college program, where he explored new creative avenues, fully immersing himself in the experience. 

Gianna during our 24’ reunion

As summer programs concluded, we celebrated with our annual reunion, allowing Fellows to connect with the CWC team and other Fellows. This year’s reunion was particularly special, thanks to our partnership with Decor Global, which hosted a denim workshop. Fellows explored a denim warehouse in New Jersey, learning techniques to craft garments for some iconic celebrities. They also created their own designs using state-of-the-art laser machines.

We thank Decor Global and BPD Wash House for welcoming us and providing invaluable industry insights.

CWC, The Decor Team, and BPD Wash House

The reunion continued with lunch in Manhattan, where Fellows met CWC co-founders Randy and Matthew. After lunch, we attended Parsons Academy’s open house to view CWC Fellows Carlos, Dhamani, and Isabelle's impressive summer projects alongside other student work. The day concluded with a visit to the Whitney Biennial Museum, where the works of renowned sculptors, painters, and visionaries inspired Fellows. We wrapped up this legendary reunion with a dinner in downtown Manhattan, joined by family, friends, staff, and Fellows.

CWC Year 4 Fellows Shylah & Laila learning from The BDP Wash House Team

A few weeks later, we hosted our annual virtual career panel. Fellows had the opportunity to learn from Black leaders in the fashion industry, asking personalized questions and hearing inspiring success stories. Special thanks to Leonardo Lawson, Jasmine Anderson, Clarence Ruth, and Shawn Williams for sharing their time and insights.

A screenshot from our virtual career panel

The momentum didn’t stop there. We held an in-person celebration for the first time to commemorate four years of changing lives. The intimate dinner brought together designers, editors, industry leaders, Fellows, and the CWC team. Co-founders Randy and Matthew reflected on our journey and aspirations, while CWC Fellow Dayne delivered a touching speech, saying, “Fashion is not the abstract concept that I once thought it was. It is something I can touch, and I know I’ll be able to do.” Dayne, now interning at SKIMS for a second year, exemplifies the impact of our mission.

Dayne presenting her speech

As the year ended, we announced the winners of our annual journal competition: Nyle, Gabe, and Dhamani. Their thoughtful entries on their pre-college summer experiences earned them prizes to aid in their creative journeys: Nyle chose a camera, Gabe a sewing machine, and Dhamani a mannequin. 

Nyles Journal

Nyles Journal

Throughout the fall, CWC’s mentorship program was in full swing. Fellows were matched with industry professionals from brands like SKIMS, Urban Outfitters, Patagonia, and Converse. These mentorships provided invaluable guidance and fostered personal connections in the fashion world.

CWC Year 1 Fellow Isabelle with URBN’s Maya Simmons

We also celebrated the achievements of Fellows who pursued unique opportunities: Kalyece studied abroad in Paris, while Nandi and Aissata completed internships that will undoubtedly shape their futures. 

Kalyece during her study abroad program in Paris

We’re grateful to everyone who has supported CWC, whether through financial contributions, time, or advice. Your generosity fuels our mission, and we look forward to continuing this journey together in 2025 and beyond.

To learn more about our accomplishments in 2024, check out our Annual Report.