The Network
Meet the people and organizations that make-up RENEW
Trainees
Meet our latest cohort of change-makers participating in RENEW
Johan is a Sophomore at The Fashion Institute of Technology. His major is Menswear. At Shop Repurpose he is an Upcycling Design Intern. His tasks consist of designing, receiving feedback and executing the designs.
“As a part of RENEW, one of the biggest takeaways I have learned so far is adaptability. I
love to have creative freedom, but I am also learning that I need to design for my
audience, not just myself.”
Beth is a Senior at New York City College of Technology. Her major is Business and Technology of Fashion and her minor is Psychology. At Shop Repurpose her role is Managerial Assistant Trainee. Her tasks consists of organizing calendars, scheduling meetings, following up on emails with partners, and researching prices.
“I’ve learned so many components about not only the company but even about myself. I’ve learned to collaborate with others, making sure we’re on the same page and pace, while also learning to think critically and resolve issues that may create a hindrance for others later.”
Tiana is a Junior at LIM College. Her major is Fashion Merchandising. At Shop Repurpose she is a Social Media and Marketing Intern. Her tasks are managing the content calendar, conducting research for trends and market research for the second hand luxury market and executing content creation for all social media platforms.
“I’ve learned a lot about collaboration and the importance of building meaningful relationships within a team. Working together not only helps push the brand's mission forward but it also fosters a sense of community, where everyone is aligned with the same purpose and working towards a common goal.”
Ryleigh is a Junior at LIM College. Her major is Fashion Media and her minor is in Visual Studies and International Business. At Shop Repurpose her role is a Copy and Blog. Intern. Her responsibilities are pitching,researching, and writing blogs that connect current events in the fashion industry to sustainability.
“I've witnessed firsthand the impact of sustainable fashion on both the industry and the environment. This experience has extended my understanding of the importance of sustainability in the fashion business and motivates me to push for positive change.”
Steffany is a Senior at Baruch College. Her major is Computer Information Systems with a minor in Spanish and Marketing Analytics. Her role at Shop Repurpose is a Marketing Intern. Her role consists of contributing to social media engagement, conducting research on inventory, and contributing to boosting engagement and sales.
“Being part of this impactful network has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of community and the importance of making conscious impacts, both in our
purchases and professional lives.”
Mentors
We are proud to work with the following organizations and individuals
Program Leaders
Our team is the backbone of The RENEW Program
Alexi Mortenson, Associate Director & RENEW Program Coordinator
Alexi is a Fashion Institute of Technology alum and former SRW Intern. While studying Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Fashion, Alexi was able to directly apply her education to support Shop Repurpose's growth. She's thrilled to blend her love for fashion with her commitment to a greener world, all while making a positive social impact by leading the next generation through the The RENEW Program. Over the years, she has worn almost every hat at Shop Repurpose. Her passion for community service is a driving force in her career. From being the champion fundraiser at her childhood dance studio by selling plants door-to-door in a little red wagon to now serving as the Volunteer Affiliate Chair for New York City Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Alexi has always been eager to support her community.
Jessie Freschl, Founder & Executive Director
Jessie Freschl has a wealth of experience in the Fashion industry. Having previously founded Freschstyle, a personal styling business, in 2011, Jessie founded Shop Repurpose in 2019, to merge sustainable fashion and workforce development opportunities as a way to promote community and connection. Currently, Jessie is focused on Turnstyle - a community tech platform where fashion meets function. Aside from work, Jessie enjoys being active in her community and balances her schedule with the practice of yoga and mindfulness, and loves spending as much time as she can in nature with her husband, their three teenage girls, and Bernadoodle, Rocky.
Placement Partners
We are thrilled to work with the following programs and institutions to place trainees in RENEW
Testimonials
See what our trainees have accomplished