Susanna Moyer Empowers the Next Generation of Fashion Leaders with Global Fashion Mentorship
Susanna Moyer is a distinguished leader in the fashion industry, celebrated for her entrepreneurial vision, strategic insights, and commitment to sustainability. As the Founder of Global Fashion Mentorship, she has played a pivotal role in guiding startups and mid-sized brands, crafting dynamic brand and merchandising strategies that drive measurable business growth.
With extensive experience across both women’s and menswear, Susanna has held key positions at esteemed fashion houses such as Christian Dior Paris, Olivier Lapidus Paris, Hickey Freeman, and Liz Claiborne. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with fashion icons including Tim Gunn and Joan Kaner of Neiman Marcus. Her entrepreneurial spirit culminated in the launch of her eponymous collection, which earned widespread recognition and was carried by high-end retailers such as Victoire, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.
In academia, Susanna is a respected thought leader and educator. She currently serves as a Part-Time Assistant Professor at Parsons School of Design and an adjunct faculty member at The Fashion Institute of Technology, where she fosters creativity while emphasizing sustainable and ethical practices. Her global influence extends through her development of curriculum modules at The American University in Paris and as a guest lecturer at prestigious institutions such as Woxsen University, Wenzhou University, and Virginia Commonwealth University.
Susanna Moyer’s multifaceted career bridges the worlds of design, entrepreneurship, education, and sustainability, making her a visionary force in the fashion industry.
How long have you been working on your venture? Why did you decide to work on something impact related?
I have been dedicated to building Global Fashion Mentorship (GFM) for the past seven years, driven by a passion to support the next generation of fashion talent. Having been in the industry myself, I understand the challenges and opportunities that aspiring designers, students, and entrepreneurs face. GFM was born out of a desire to provide the kind of guidance and mentorship that I would have benefitted from when I first started my business or applied to fashion school, and I am deeply committed to giving back to those who remind me of my own journey. GFM offers two core services designed to empower individuals at different stages of their careers:
1. University and College Admissions Guidance for Aspiring Art and Fashion Students. We provide expert mentorship to high school and undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing degrees in fashion, the arts, or fashion business management. One of the major hurdles for students applying to universities or colleges in these fields is the creation of a compelling portfolio. At GFM, we guide students through every step of the process, from selecting the right projects to showcasing their skills, creativity, and personal style. Our team of experienced mentors works one-on-one with students to ensure their portfolios are polished, unique, and aligned with the expectations of top-tier universities and fashion programs. Additionally, we offer valuable advice on the application process itself, including how to craft personal statements and present their work in a way that resonates with admissions committees.
2. Brand Development Mentorship for Emerging Designers Our second offering is tailored to emerging fashion designers who are looking to launch their own brands. From initial concept development to manufacturing and marketing, GFM provides comprehensive support throughout the entire brand-building journey. We help designers define their vision, refine their brand identity, and create a sustainable business model. Our expert mentors bring years of experience in various aspects of fashion, from design and production to business strategy and digital marketing. We also provide valuable insights into industry trends, sourcing materials, and navigating the complexities of fashion manufacturing. Whether you are just starting out with a concept or are ready to take your designs to the next level, our experts at GFM are able here to help guide our clients every step of the way.
At Global Fashion Mentorship, we’re creating a platform that nurtures talent, fosters creativity, and helps the next generation of fashion leaders thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
How did you find out you wanted to take an entrepreneurial path? What was the first fundamental shift that happened to you as an early impact entrepreneur?
From a young age, I was drawn to entrepreneurship, starting various small businesses with a sense of curiosity and ambition. However, I recognized early on that to truly succeed, I needed to gain hands-on experience working for established companies and learn the craft of my trade. I knew that understanding how the business world operates—especially the roles that make up a successful team—was essential. This experience would allow me to hire the best talent and build a strong foundation to support my future ventures. By learning from others, I was able to refine my vision, develop a deeper understanding of business operations, and set myself up for long-term success as an entrepreneur.
What do you enjoy most about being an impact entrepreneur? What are the main challenges?
I’m passionate about guiding and empowering others to turn their vision into reality, while providing them with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities they’ll face as entrepreneurs. For me, it’s all about building genuine connections with creative, driven individuals and carefully selecting clients whose values align with my own. I love the freedom of working on projects that inspire me, while also maintaining a flexible schedule that allows me to stay balanced and open to new possibilities.
What advice do you have for early-stage impact entrepreneurs about using their time and relationships to prepare for this kind of career? What would you tell your younger self?
Do your homework and invest in a consultant or mentor to guide you—it’ll save you both time and money in the long run. Create a clear strategy to map out your entrepreneurial journey, from A to Z. Also, build a network by connecting with as many people as possible, learning from their experiences, and identifying opportunities within your field. Never stop learning and evolving—it’s the key to long-term success.
Anything else you would like to add?
Through my experience mentoring designers and students, I’ve learned that success in fashion is rooted in a blend of creativity, persistence, and a strong grasp of the business side of the industry. For students applying to universities, authenticity is key in showcasing their unique perspective through their portfolios. Focusing on quality over quantity is essential, with a cohesive body of work that reflects personal style, creativity, and technical skill, while also addressing important issues like sustainability and ethical practices. A well-rounded understanding of the fashion industry—beyond just design—is crucial, and students should develop both their artistic abilities and business acumen for long-term success.
When launching a fashion brand, the most important factor is developing a clear brand identity and scalable business model. Understanding your target market and refining your brand’s unique value are essential steps for success. Additionally, financial planning and assembling the right team are critical, as managing costs, production, and growth requires careful attention. A successful brand is not only built on exceptional designs but also on a strong foundation of strategic planning, financial insight, and a committed, capable team.
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