Nearly 100 staff across PVH Brands Australia have mentored 300 high school students across nine schools in New South Wales and Victoria in partnership with local not-for-profit ABCN.
The partnership program, titled ‘Fit for Fashion’, is designed to open pathways into the fashion industry for young people from disadvantaged or marginalised communities.
According to PVH Australia's GM of marketing, digital and communications Dianne Taylor, the business behind Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Van Heusen has doubled its commitment to local student mentoring since commencing its partnership with ABCN in 2022.
“From its beginnings in 2022, where 38 PVH staff mentored 168 students from five low socio-economic high schools in NSW, the ‘Fit for Fashion’ program has grown significantly,” Taylor said.
“By 2024, it will include 96 PVH staff mentoring 300 students across nine high schools in both NSW and Victoria, broadening its reach and impact.”
“Together ABCN and PVH would like to invite others in the industry to join the program.”
Taylor added that some of the secondary school students have applied and been successful with holiday peak retail store casual positions as a result of the ‘Interview-to-Impress’ program, which gives students the necessary interview skills when applying for roles.
“Introducing future talent to potential career opportunities helps to build confidence and awareness,” Taylor said. “The program showcases a broad range of entry-level industry opportunities and offers guidance on the skills required for a future career.”
ABCN CEO Phil Gardner confirmed that the PVH staff who have mentored in the program included CRM and e-commerce specialists, designers, IT experts, retail associates, data scientists and visual merchandisers.
“The ‘Fit for Fashion’ sessions are led by ABCN facilitators, so mentors don’t need any formal training,” Gardner said. “They serve as guides and role models, inspiring students from low-income and diverse backgrounds to understand and feel empowered to pursue careers in the fashion sector.
“‘Fit for Fashion’ offers exposure to diverse ideas, career paths and experiences that broaden the student’s horizons and help them envision futures beyond their immediate surroundings.
“At the same time, the program builds social capital by connecting students with mentors and professionals, providing valuable networks that open doors to new opportunities and ongoing support.”