Made to Lead: Iisis & Her Next Adventure
When Iisis walks into a room, people take notice.
She’s been gracing our community with her standout personal style and warm presence since joining Cohort 10 of our Training Institute. Since graduating, Iisis has grown into an invaluable leader at Custom Collaborative — launching our peer mentorship program that connects current participants with alumni for ongoing support, guidance, and encouragement.
Read our interview with Iisis to learn more about her journey so far, and the big things she’s taking on next.
Iisis, Cohort 10
How did you get involved with Custom Collaborative?
I became involved with Custom Collaborative because of my long-standing passion for fashion and creativity.
I had just been telling a friend that I wanted to take my ideas to the next level by learning how to sew, since I often struggled to find unique clothing in stores that truly reflected my style. I explained that I had plenty of ideas for pieces I wanted to wear, but I lacked the technical skills to bring them to life.
Almost like divine timing, just a week later, Custom Collaborative appeared on my Instagram feed, and I knew it was the perfect opportunity.
In what ways did the Training Institute help you and your career?
The Training Institute helped me tremendously by giving me the confidence to believe that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.
Before joining, I had never sewn before, and the program equipped me with the technical skills I needed while also pushing me out of my comfort zone. It also taught me valuable lessons in time management, filtering my ideas, and being more realistic with my goals. Most importantly, it gave me the tough skin I needed to navigate the fashion industry and continue pursuing my passion with resilience.
What would you tell someone thinking about joining the program? Why should they enroll, and what can they expect?
I would encourage anyone interested in exploring the fashion industry to join Custom Collaborative because it truly opens doors to endless possibilities.
The program not only equips you with essential skills, but it also provides continued support beyond graduation, creating a strong sense of community and family. You can always count on someone to collaborate with, motivate you, and keep you accountable.
Most importantly, you can expect to be challenged and pushed to your limits in the best way possible, always with guidance, encouragement, and care.
Iisis graduating from Borough of Manhattan Community College, May 2025
You went back to school and earned your Associate's this year
Can you tell us more about what you studied and why you decided to pursue further education?
I’ve never really been into conventional schooling because I’ve always been more creative and hands-on, exploring different trades like makeup and construction. But through my experience at Custom Collaborative, I realized there were so many other avenues I wanted to explore. Especially after spearheading the mentorship program, which revealed my passion for helping people!
That experience inspired me to go back to school, and I recently graduated from Borough of Manhattan Community College with my associate’s degree. Now, I’m excited to continue my journey by pursuing my bachelor’s in social work at Hunter College this coming January, building the skills to support people emotionally while also growing as a leader.
Through the end of 2025, we’re raising funds to ensure more women like Iisis who are made to lead have the resources and opportunity to design their dream life. Help us grow this movement of creative, caring leaders with a one-time or monthly donation!
