VCAD Calgary Launches New Immersive Mentorship Program with Bellissima

On October 1, 2021, Bellissima Fashions – a leading, women’s fashion retailer – announced the inauguration of a Fashion Connects Partner Series, which includes its latest education partnership with VCAD.

“The Fashion Connects Education Partnership embodies our mission of creating connections through fashion. We believe that there is immense talent in Canadian fashion, and we all need to do our part to inspire, grow, and lead.” Viviana Shaneman, Bellissima Fashions CEO.

In honour of its 40th anniversary, Bellissima Fashions and VCAD have launched an immersive mentorship program for students in the Marketing and Merchandising for Fashion program. Over a three-month period, students will have the opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of the fashion industry – everything from sustainability in action, anticipating and leveraging market trends, the buying cycle and supply chain management to building creative assets and creating in-store experiences that enhance the customer journey.

Mentors within the Fashion Connects Partner Series have significant industry experience, having brought billion-dollar brands to the market, worked with Canadian icons such as Joe Mimran, Ralph Lauren, Club Monaco, Hudson’s Bay and Mark’s.

“This partnership demonstrates leadership for future partnerships with industry. It will provide VCAD students with invaluable experience to ensure that they are ready to enter the job market.” Alfie Oliver, VCAD Calgary Campus Director.

Founded in Calgary in 1981, Bellissima Fashions is a proudly Canadian brand that celebrates the beauty and originality of Canadian designers and locally-made fashion and lifestyle products. Learn more about Bellissima Fashions here.

This mentorship program is the first of its kind at VCAD, and the college looks forward to welcoming more similar programs of this nature to ensure that its students are well-prepared to embark on new creative careers once they graduate.