Kerby Jean-Raymond wears many creative hats. As the founder of Pyer Moss, the New York-based men’s and women’s wear brand, he weaves together denim, streetwear, activewear and tailoring into a new and modern aesthetic that carries messages of heritage and activism. In July, despite a freak rainstorm that forced him to reschedule, Jean-Raymond became the second Black American designer to present during Paris Couture Week and used the prestigious runway to celebrate the achievements of Black inventors.

Amplifying new voices and uplifting the artists that work behind the scenes of fashion’s glossy exterior plays large role in Jean-Raymond’s projects. Last fall, he partnered with luxury conglomerate Kering to form Your Friends in New York (YFINY), a platform designed to empower the next generation of creatives and create an “eco-system of creativity that reimagines how consumers discover and interact with brands.”

“It is important to me to create and work on ventures that are future forward, involve the community at large and that will continue to help others grow in the fashion and art space,” Jean-Raymond said.