Gucci launches scholarship fund to support diversity

Gucci has announced a new initiative to bolster inclusivity with a new
fund. The Kering-owned brand has launched Gucci Changemakers, a global
program that supports industry change and fosters unity through community
action.

The news follows an earlier announcement of a long-term diversity and
inclusion action plan.

Initially launched internally in 2018, the program includes a multi year 5
million dollar Changemakers Fun and a 1.5 million dollar scholarship
program in North America, alongside a global employee-volunteering
framework thatwill fuel the company’s commitment to creating lasting social
impact within the fashion industry.

“I believe in dialogue, building bridges and taking quick action,” said
Marco Bizzarri, president and CEO of Gucci, in a statement. “This is why we
started working immediately on the long-term infrastructure at Gucci to
address our shortcomings.

“And now through our Changemakers program, we will invest important
resources to unify and strengthen our communities across North America,
with a focus on programs that will impact youth and the African-American
community. I believe in the promise of the next generation, and through our
scholarship fund we will also create more opportunities for talented young
people of diverse backgrounds to gain access to careers in the fashion
industry.”

Last month Gucci was the focus of a racial controversy, when a sweater
available for sale was believed to respresent blackface. Gucci subsequently
removed the design from its retail outlets and offered an apology for
causing offence.

Photo courtesy of Gucci