Meet Bresha Durham | Fashion Designer & Sewing Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bresha Durham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bresha, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business stems from a deep passion for fashion and translating that passion into a lifestyle. Reflecting on my upbringing I always expressed myself through fashion; I realized that my exposure to fashion was predominantly through the lens of hip hop culture. While this provided a unique and vibrant perspective, it also meant that my access to resources for exploring fashion design within my own community was limited. This scarcity of opportunities fueled my desire to create something impactful, something that could be a catalyst for change.

My thought process is driven by the belief that fashion is not just about clothing; it’s about empowerment and self-expression. I want to break down the barriers that hinder youth in underserved communities, from accessing resources and tools to explore fashion as both a life skill and a means of expressing their creativity. BInfluence Inc. is committed to providing sewing programs that aim to provide a platform where children can not only learn practical techniques in fashion design but also gain valuable life skills as an entrepreneur.

My thought process is focused on fostering a sense of community, breaking down barriers, and providing the kind of resources I wish I had growing up. I want to empower children with the tools they need to express themselves through fashion, develop a culture of entrepreneurs who pour back into their community giving them the confidence to pursue their passions and dreams.

This thought process is the driving force behind my entrepreneurial journey – a journey that is not only about building a successful business but, more importantly, about making a lasting and positive impact on the community that shaped me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I fell in love with fashion watching my great grandma design and create clothes at the kitchen table. Being so fascinated by how she turned nothing into something I asked her to teach me her knowledge. Since embarking on my journey in the fashion industry in 2010, I’ve been on a dedicated path of creativity, education, and community engagement. It all began at Orlando Tech, where my passion for sewing and design took root. In 2011, I furthered my commitment by pursuing a degree in Fashion Design, laying the foundation for a career driven by artistic expression and technical proficiency.

In 2014, I took a meaningful turn, finding joy and purpose in teaching children the art of sewing. This marked the beginning of my endeavor to pass on my skills and ignite a passion for creativity in the younger generation.

Venturing into the professional realm, by 2016, I had become a sought-after set seamstress and patternmaker. My role extended beyond the studio, encompassing freelance work that included collaborating on photo shoots and contributing to set designs. This period not only refined my technical skills but also allowed me to express my artistic vision in diverse creative projects.

As my career progressed, I recognized the power of fashion as a tool for community building. In 2022, I founded BInfluence Inc. nonprofit with a mission to empower and educate underserved children through the art of sewing. BInfluence Inc. aims to provide all the resources necessary for children to create freely, inspire confidence, and equip young minds with valuable life skills. The goal was not only to teach valuable skills but also to provide a positive and constructive outlet for children, fostering a sense of community and steering them away from the challenges of the streets.

My journey in the fashion industry has been more than a career—it’s a narrative of creativity, education, and social impact. From the early days of learning the craft to the current pursuit of community-driven initiatives, my passion for fashion has evolved into a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Throughout my journey my biggest challenge has come from limited beliefs. Being afraid to act on my vision because I didn’t think others would believe in my plan. As I’ve grown and took action in my vision others connect with me easily and partnerships happen effortlessly. I’m proud of never giving up on myself no matter how many routes I’ve taken to get to this point. I’ve learned to believe in myself! Alignment happens with action, and faith without works in dead.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite places to eat, drink or hang out is varies; For food my go to; Eclipse di Luna, Salata, Tassili’s Raw, Atrium, Agave. For entertainment my go to; The High Art Museum, any park with a hike trail, Pink Pole studio for some girl time, Spaland for relaxation, Atlantic Station or Mall, and any sporting event.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to the BELAC Foundation, Atlanta local libraries and community centers for being instrumental in the success of BInfluence Inc. Their generous donations of resources and the provision of a safe space have been invaluable in our mission to provide quality classes for children in our community. Their commitment to education and empowerment has truly made a difference, allowing us to create a positive impact on young minds. Thank you, BELAC Foundation and local libraries, for being essential partners in our journey towards fostering creativity and skills in the next generation.

Website: www.binfluence.net

Instagram: @B.Influence_

Facebook: @binfluenceinc

Other: Tik Tok: @Binfluenceinc