About Us
Fashion Community Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded by Berny Martin in 2019. The organization is founded upon the principles to enable others to have the opportunities of cultural exchange that Berny had growing up in Brooklyn, New York, to create a global community that everyone can participate in.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create the space for underprivileged young people to have an opportunity to learn practical skills in the area of fashion design, ultimately allowing for employment in an industry that very few can realize.
Our Vision
Our vision is to spread the joy and inspiration of every culture across the world through the exposure and exchange of fashion and style.
Our Values
We believe in creating an environment that fosters talent and where diverse backgrounds are an advantage rather than a hindrance. Therefore, our values are rooted in cultural exchange, inclusiveness, and the appreciation of differences as every person has unique value to shaping the beauty, culture, and art within themselves and with others.
Our Approach
At Fashion Community Foundation, we aim to bring out the beauty that already exists within individuals and communities. We do not look to change, but rather accentuate and restore the features that distinguish us from one another. This approach is applied from the materials we use to how we conduct and present our artistry. While we are one human race, we cultivate a culture of celebrating our differences while acknowledging our commonalities.
Our Goals
We are proud supporters of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and our goals are to help advance the following below.
SDG 8:
Decent Work and Economic Growth
By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.
We rise when we lift others around us. Helping others pursue their passions professionally is how we have and continue to make a difference in the lives of many.
SDG 10:
Reduced Inequalities
Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard.
We recognize that we need to do our part to reduce the proportion of those reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed. That is why we encourage the fostering of cultural exchange and provide opportunities to start conversations through visual storytelling using the medium of art and fashion.
SDG 12:
Responsible Consumption and Production
By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.
We are working to increase the national recycling rate and contribute to the tons of material recycled. All of Fashion Community Foundation’s materials are recycled and we educate our stakeholders about using recycled materials and sourcing materials from sustainable resources or from using a technology that has lower ecological footprints.