The Licensing International Foundation’s mission focuses on the next generation of licensing leaders, awarding students from around the world who are interested in a career in brand licensing at all stages of their educational journey.

What was your reaction when you first found out you had received a Licensing International Foundation Scholarship?
It was such an honor to be recognized and receive a scholarship from an organization as impactful as Licensing International. At the time I received the award, I was just starting to see progress on my career trajectory. Winning the scholarship was not only a sign that I was on the right path, but it added credibility and experience to my resume that propelled me forward in my career.

What did receiving this scholarship mean to you?
At the time of receiving this scholarship, I was a student with a deep need for a financial lift. I was supporting myself living in New York City as both a full-time student at LIM College and as a full-time Assistant Merchant at Todd Snyder. The financial barriers to pursuing an education while still trying to make ends meet at times felt impossible, but thanks to the scholarships I received, such as the one from Licensing International, I was able to graduate and pursue my goals in the fashion industry. I am forever thankful for those scholarships as I wouldn’t be where I am today without the aid that they provided.

How has the Scholarship Program helped jumpstart or further your career?
Through the scholarship, I was able to speak at the 2022 Licensing International Hall of Fame Gala. This was one of my first times speaking in front of a large crowd full of people whose careers I admired. Not only was this incredible exposure for me, but it helped prepare me for my future of public speaking. Through my work with The Z Suite, I have been a featured speaker across the country, leading panel discussions and giving talks at events such as Shoptalk, CommerceNext, and eTailWest. I am so grateful that I was given this opportunity as I will carry that experience with me through the rest of my career.

What advice would you give to current college students who are thinking of applying to the 2025 Scholarship Program?
I would encourage students to apply to the 2024 Licensing International Scholarship program as an investment in their future. Whether they are hoping to grow their exposure to the licensing industry or are working on expanding their strengths in licensing and consumer goods, Licensing International is a fantastic resource and platform. The benefits of participating in the 2024 Scholarship Program are priceless and you have nothing to lose, only a chance at intertwining with the ultimate platform for global licensing.

Looking ahead, what are your next steps or aspirations?
In my current role at CK, I oversee Global Merchandising for Men’s Denim. I direct and execute initiatives around sustainability, product innovation, and inclusive consumer strategies within the global presence of Calvin Klein. After winning the scholarship from Licensing International, I was awarded the 2023 Chairman’s Award from the Fashion Scholarship Fund and named a Virgil Abloh Post Modern Scholar. I’ve worked to build a reputation around advocating and strategizing for the Gen Z consumer base. I am one of the first members of The Z Suite, a cohort of Gen Z Professionals who work to mentor and consult leading retail, tech, and media companies on strategy, inclusivity, and young consumers. My insights on the Gen Z consumer have now been featured in multiple publications including The New York Times, Forbes, and WWD.

As part of our mission to inspire the next generation of talent globally while advancing the understanding of licensing in society, Licensing International’s Scholarship Program grants scholarships to deserving individuals around the world who are interested in a career in brand licensing. Scholarships are available for students at all stages of their educational journey seeking degrees in business, marketing, design, engineering, entrepreneurial studies, e-commerce, and other brand licensing industry-related programs, and will be made directly to the institution to cover educational expenses.  Support the next generation of brand licensing professionals with a donation to the Licensing International Scholarship Fund. Even the smallest donation can make an impact in our community.