The American Fashion Lab (AFL) is a national nonprofit organization supporting formally trained fashion creatives as they transition from education to professional practice. AFL bridges the gap between academic training and real-world industry standards through structured development, production guidance, and professional mentorship.
Founded to address the lack of accessible post-graduate infrastructure in fashion, AFL operates nationally through cohort-based programs, studio intensives, and professional partnerships designed to prepare emerging designers for sustainable careers.
Board of Directors
Creative director shaping the vision and artistry behind Rise SATX.
Lena M. Timmons
President
Strategic voice driving brand growth and creative storytelling.
Christopher Jones
VP & Marketing Director
Emily Jacobs
Director of Production & Operations
Leadership
Expert stylist defining the modern beauty language of Rise.
Ebony Everette
Advisory Director of Beauty
Nana Herrera
Director of Education/DevelopmentOur Approach
The American Fashion Lab applies industry-aligned standards to all programming, emphasizing preparation, accountability, and real production experience. AFL’s approach is designed to support formally trained creatives as they transition from education into professional fashion markets.
Creative Development
We guide designers through a disciplined process that mirrors real industry expectations. From early concept to final presentation, every step is shaped through critique, refinement, and hands-on learning. The goal is simple: sharpen skills, strengthen identity, and prepare emerging designers for opportunities that demand real readiness.
Visual Direction
We build visuals with intention. Our team shapes storytelling through creative direction, styling, and photography that elevates emerging fashion voices. Shoots are produced with clean, editorial precision and take place in studios, sets, and select locations nationally, anchored by our core production base.