Serena Williams, who holds the most Grand Slam titles among active tennis players in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, has partnered with fashion company Nike. A new generation of young creatives from underrepresented communities will be given an opportunity to break into the fashion industry through the Serena Williams Design Crew, a design apprenticeship program.
The partnership arose out of the desire to foster diversity in the design community, develop new perspectives, and generate innovative ideas. Now in its second year, the program continues its mission by partnering with organizations including Harlem’s Fashion Row, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and Hispanic-serving institutions (HSI).
Serena Williams Design Crew gives a great example of diversity and should serve as a model for others. As Serena’s influence in sport has grown, so has her awareness of the impact her voice and platform can have.
Williams advises young creatives out there that as long as you are open and willing to collaborate with others, nothing is impossible.
