What are the responsibilities and job description for the Fashion Design Summer Camp Instructor (1-Week Camp for Youth) position at Be The Change Foundation?
Fashion Design Summer Camp Instructor (1-Week Camp for Youth)
Duration: 1 week summer camp program
Summer Camp Schedule:
- Monday, June 22, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Wednesday, June 24, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Friday, June 26, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: Palo Alto High School (in Palo Alto, CA)
Compensation: Competitive Pay
Position Overview
Be The Change Foundation is seeking an experienced Fashion Design Instructor to lead a dynamic, hands-on sustainable fashion summer camp for students ages 11–18 this summer. This immersive 1-week program will introduce young creatives to the fundamentals of fashion design with a strong emphasis on sustainability and creative innovation.
The instructor will need to guide students through the full fashion design process – from concept development to final creation – leading the students to successfully construct two garments using recycled fabrics. On the final evening, we will also host a fashion show for parents to watch the students model their own looks down the catwalk and pose for professional photos.
Read the full description of our Fashion Forward Summer Camp 2026 here:
https://www.bethechange.foundation/page/fashion-forward-summer-camp-2026
Key Responsibilities
Plan and deliver an engaging, age-appropriate 1-week fashion design curriculum.
Teach foundational concepts including:
- Fashion illustration and sketching
- Dress patterns usage and fabric selection
- Garment construction basics
- Sustainable fashion practices
Guide students step-by-step in designing and creating two original garments / looks.
Prepare all instructional materials and sample references in advance.
Foster a supportive, inclusive, and creative classroom environment.
Provide individualized feedback and mentorship to students.
Work effectively with our Be The Change program lead, and you will also have a fashion design assistant supporting you in the classroom.
Qualifications
Required:
- Professional experience as a fashion designer in the fashion industry OR
- Current or former fashion design professor/instructor at an accredited college or university
Strong expertise of:
- Garment construction and design principles
- Sustainable and ethical fashion practices
Preferred experience working with youth (ages 12–18) and/or leading workshops or camps.
Excellent communication and teaching skills.
Ability to simplify complex concepts for beginner to intermediate learners.
Highly organized and able to prepare a structured lesson plan.
Local candidates only; no relocation assistance provided.
What We’re Looking For
A creative mentor who can inspire young designers and a passion for fashion.
A hands-on instructor who enjoys guiding students through real-world creative processes.
A positive, energetic, and patient leader who can make learning fun and memorable.
How to Apply
For consideration, please submit your:
- Resume
- Examples from your portfolio of design work (if applicable)
Be the Change Foundation
Be the Change Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2014 that empowers young people and professionals to achieve their potential. We provide coaching for K-12 students and career acceleration for professionals, focused on education, health, and intellectual development. Our programs help K-12 students find their passions through impactful volunteering, enhancing their confidence, communication, and emotional intelligence. We also guide professionals towards C-level and board roles. Our community includes students, professionals, and executives who volunteer to foster young individuals' growth.
You can learn more about our organization on our website: https://www.bethechange.foundation/