Urban Academy

Apprenticeship Program

Ready to Begin Your Fashion Pathway?

At Urban Academy, we cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. We seek individuals who excel at thinking beyond conventional boundaries and thrive in fast-paced environments. If you perform best in dynamic, unconventional settings and respond to leadership tailored to your strengths, you could be a perfect fit.

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How it works!

Easy 3-Step Process

Pick a Pathway

Specialization Path — One Primary Focus

Multi-Discipline Path — Three Disciplines, Any Combination

Pick the Discipline(s)

Specialization Path — Select one discipline

Multi-Discipline Path — Select three disciplines

Submit Application

Fill out our online application here.

Check for your confirmation email!

Select Department

Fashion

Media

Business

Vision

The courage to see beyond the present and imagine what creativity, leadership, and personal growth can become.

Artistry

The commitment to craft, expression, and skill while transforming ideas into meaningful, intentional work.

Innovation

The drive to challenge norms, experiment boldly, and shape the future of creative industries.

Join us in launching Best Rebels, an initiative developed with Best Buddies to provide impactful leadership opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities within the creative workforce.

By 2030,

Urban Academy is committed to ensuring that no less than

10%

of its internal team consists of individuals with IDD.

Did you know?

Among adults with ID, the unemployment rate is more than twice that of adults without disabilities: 21% vs. under 8%

Your support helps create industry-aligned pathways for IDD individuals in the creative workforce. Support by signing our initiative campaign or donate to our program.

Learn More

FEATURED MENTORS

EMMA LOZO

DESIGNER & STYLIST
Emma Manis is a designer, stylist, and creative director whose work centers on empowerment, authenticity, and innovative fashion storytelling. Her creative projects have been featured in Vogue, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vanity Fair, and have appeared at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks. Her distinctive vision brings depth and intention to every collaboration.
DAVID HARRELL

FASHION DESIGNER
As the creative mind behind Dapper7 and Harrell’s Menswear, H. David Harrell has earned a reputation for delivering sharp, elevated menswear rooted in precision and artistic flair. His work has been showcased on notable figures such as Nick Cannon, Slick Rick, After 7, and Don Benjamin. Harrell’s design ethos celebrates individuality, confidence, and timeless style.
SOFIA McDANIEL

MISS RICHMOND ‘24 & JURIS DOCTOR
Sofia McDaniel, J.D., is an education‑policy professional and advocate for inclusion and equity. She was Miss Richmond 2024, using her platform to promote disability awareness and education. Sofia also chairs the Richmond Advisory Board for Best Buddies International, leading initiatives that support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
RYAN AZIA

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY ARTIST
Ryan Azia is a multimedia artist, fashion and jewelry designer, photographer/videographer, and creative entrepreneur. He serves (or has served) as Creative Director for RVA Fashion Week and is Managing Partner of The Aziancy. His work spans streetwear and fashion, art exhibitions, photography, and runway coordination — blending design, media, and community‑driven creativity.
NIKKI FIVEASH

FASHION DESIGNER
Nikki Fiveash is a mentor, connector, and creative leader whose real gift lies in helping others grow. With close to 30 years in beauty and fashion under her belt, including roles as stylist, educator, backstage manager, and now designer of her own fashion brand N5 Couture, she provides hands-on guidance, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities to emerging talent.