Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Aurora James

Founder of Brother Vellies | Creator of the Fifteen Percent Pledge | Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion in Fashion and Business

Aurora James Speaking Fee: Contact Us for Pricing

Founder of Brother Vellies | Creator of the Fifteen Percent Pledge | Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion in Fashion and Business

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Aurora James
Speaking Fee:
Contact Us for Pricing

Travels From:
NYC - New York City

Primary Topic Category:
Fashion

Secondary Topic Category:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) / Social Justice

 

Aurora James Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Aurora James is a distinguished fashion designer and the visionary founder of Brother Vellies, a brand celebrated for its dedication to sustainably sourced, artisan-made accessories. She is also the creator of the Fifteen Percent Pledge, a powerful initiative urging retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. Her innovative approach has earned her a spot on TIME's 100 Most Influential People list. Aurora’s work not only redefines fashion but also champions significant social change, making her a sought-after voice in both design and advocacy circles.

Aurora James is a trailblazing entrepreneur and designer renowned for her visionary approach to fashion and social justice. Born in Toronto, Canada, she spent her formative years immersed in a multicultural environment that sparked her creativity and global perspective. Her career journey began with a deep appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship, inspired by travels across Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the rich traditions of shoe-making. In 2013, Aurora founded Brother Vellies with the mission to keep traditional African design practices and techniques alive while creating job opportunities for artisans. The brand quickly gained international acclaim for its unique and ethically produced footwear and accessories. Under her leadership, Brother Vellies has become synonymous with sustainable luxury and innovative design. Her commitment to ethical fashion has garnered attention across the globe and solidified her as a leading voice in the industry. Beyond fashion, Aurora's influence extends into the realm of social activism. In 2020, she launched the Fifteen Percent Pledge, a groundbreaking initiative urging retailers to dedicate at least 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. This movement has led to tangible changes in the retail landscape, with major brands such as Sephora and Macy's committing to the pledge. Aurora’s efforts have amplified the conversation around racial equity in business, showcasing her ability to use creativity as a catalyst for change. Aurora's achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including being named to the BoF 500 list of people shaping the fashion industry and being recognized as a leader in sustainability by the CFDA. Her work continues to be a source of inspiration, proving that design and activism can coexist harmoniously. As a keynote speaker, Aurora shares her insights on how fashion can drive positive social change, offering a compelling vision for the future of the industry. With a dynamic presence and an unwavering dedication to her principles, Aurora James exemplifies the power of creativity coupled with activism. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and a steadfast belief in the transformative potential of fashion. Aurora’s trajectory from a young designer to a globally influential advocate underscores her unique ability to blend artistry with advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on both the fashion world and society at large.
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