Fashion Week, Attending FIT, Influencer Marketing…RGNN Contributor Afiya Ibnath Spills the Tea

RGNN Contributor Afiya Ibnath has checked off so many of the quintessential things RGNN students want to do. She attended one of the top fashion schools in the US, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City. During that time, she went backstage at New York Fashion Week. And she volunteered at one of the best fashion museums, none other than The Museum at FIT. Upon graduating, she got a job in influencer marketing at Edelman, a global communications firm with clients such as Dove, eBay, Heineken, Unilever, Xbox and more. In an exclusive interview, Afiya kindly shared her advice with everyone who wants to follow in her footsteps. Read all about it below, and thank you so much, Afiya, for sharing your tips!

RGNN students love fashion week. During your time at FIT, you were a Backstage Assistant at Miss Fashion Week New York, an international model contest for all models. How did you become a Backstage Assistant? What advice do you have for other students who want to follow in your footsteps and go backstage at fashion week?

During my time at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), my keen interest in New York Fashion Week (NYFW) led me to actively seek opportunities to be involved. I frequently reached out to my professors, inquiring if they had any connections with professionals working at NYFW. This proactive approach paid off, as it eventually opened the door for me to become a Backstage Assistant at Miss Fashion Week New York, an esteemed international model contest. 

For students aspiring to gain similar backstage experience at fashion week, I would emphasize the importance of networking and direct outreach. Building connections on platforms like LinkedIn can be incredibly valuable. Additionally, don’t hesitate to directly contact the brands participating in NYFW. A well-crafted email expressing your eagerness to learn and assist can make a significant impact. 

– Afiya Ibnath, RGNN Contributor, FIT Alum and currently, Influencer Marketing at Edelman

Remember, any experience, big or small, is beneficial. Having an up-to-date resume that highlights relevant skills and experiences can also be a key factor in securing such opportunities. The fashion industry values initiative and passion, so showing your enthusiasm and willingness to learn is as important as your qualifications.

You also volunteered in the Textiles department of the The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, one of the most famous fashion museums worldwide. What did this entail and what did you learn from it?

In high school, with my sights set on attending the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) as my dream school, I was keen on finding opportunities to immerse myself in its environment and build connections. This pursuit led me to discover a volunteering opportunity at The Museum at FIT, renowned as one of the premier fashion museums worldwide. I initially learned about the need for volunteers during a visit to the museum. Eager to be involved, I signed up and was subsequently invited for an interview. 

My experience as a volunteer in the Textiles department was both enriching and educational. It provided me with a unique perspective on fashion, extending my knowledge beyond just the contemporary aspects and deepening my understanding of its history and evolution. 

This experience was instrumental in broadening my network within the FIT community. Interacting with professionals and fellow fashion enthusiasts at the museum not only enriched my learning but also played a crucial role in integrating me into the FIT community, paving the way for my future endeavors in the fashion industry.

You are currently a Junior Coordinator in Influencer Marketing at Edelman, a global communications firm with clients such as Dove, eBay, Heineken, Unilever, Xbox and more. How did you get that job?

Securing my role as a Junior Coordinator in Influencer Marketing at Edelman, a leading global communications firm, was a journey fueled by my passion for public relations and a strategic approach to networking. Edelman had always been on my radar as a dream company to work for. Understanding the importance of connections in the industry, I dedicated myself to seeking out individuals currently employed at Edelman. Through these efforts, I was able to learn more about the company’s culture and operations, which was invaluable. 

However, it wasn’t just networking that paved my way to this position. My previous internships in influencer marketing played a crucial role. These experiences ignited my passion for the field and equipped me with relevant skills and insights. During the interview process at Edelman, I was able to leverage this background to demonstrate my capabilities and fit for the role effectively. 

Ultimately, it was a combination of building the right connections, gaining pertinent experience, and showcasing my enthusiasm and knowledge in influencer marketing that led me to land my job at Edelman.

And what does a typical “day in the life” look like at this job for you?

A typical day in my role as a Junior Coordinator in Influencer Marketing at Edelman revolves around bridging the gap between our clients and influencers. My primary responsibility is to identify and connect with influencers who align with our clients’ brands and campaign objectives. On a day-to-day basis, this involves a mix of activities: researching potential influencers, analyzing their audience demographics and engagement rates, and assessing how well they resonate with the client’s message.

What advice do you have for other students who want to pursue a career in influencer marketing?

For students aspiring to a career in influencer marketing, I recommend staying curious and continuously learning about this ever-evolving industry. It’s important to recognize that influencer marketing extends far beyond what is immediately visible. A deep understanding of social media is crucial, as it forms the backbone of this field. Begin by immersing yourself in different social media platforms, understanding their unique dynamics and how they can be leveraged in influencer marketing. 

Networking is also key; building connections within the industry can provide invaluable insights and opportunities. Remember, I am still learning and growing in this field myself. My advice is to follow your passion, commit wholeheartedly to your goals, and never stop seeking knowledge and connections in this dynamic and exciting industry.

– Afiya Ibnath, RGNN Contributor, FIT Alum and currently, Influencer Marketing at Edelman

And what advice do you have for aspiring influencers who want to work with brands? Is there anything specific you look for when choosing influencers at Edelman?

For aspiring influencers, particularly micro-influencers, looking to collaborate with brands like those we work with at Edelman, proactive outreach is key. If you don’t have talent management representation, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn can be effective in connecting with the right people. Reaching out directly to companies or agencies can showcase your initiative and interest. Considering talent management can also be beneficial, not just for potential collaborations with Edelman’s clients but for your overall career growth. Talent managers can provide valuable guidance and access to opportunities you might not find on your own. 

At Edelman, we are constantly on the lookout for new influencers for various campaigns and projects. We don’t have a “specific look” that we seek; instead, we value authenticity, audience engagement, and alignment with our client’s brand and campaign goals. So, being true to your unique style and maintaining an engaged audience are critical factors.

– Afiya Ibnath, RGNN Contributor, FIT Alum and currently, Influencer Marketing at Edelman

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