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Nina Means is the inaugural Director of the Austin Community College Fashion Incubator, where she leads the development of industry-driven programs that empower students and emerging fashion businesses. Her work focuses on building strategic partnerships, advancing digital transformation, and bridging the gap between creativity and commerce in Austin’s growing fashion sector.

Nina first connected with Mortada Mohamed and the World Affairs Council of Austin through the ATX+EGYPT Global Fashion Technology Accelerator—an initiative funded by the U.S. State Department and the City of Austin Economic Development Department. This program exemplifies her commitment to fostering global exchange and innovation in fashion.

With a background that spans public health and international fashion design, Nina has designed for brands such as Rebecca Taylor, American Eagle Outfitters, and H by Halston for QVC. She launched her own label in 2016 and has been recognized as a leader shaping Austin’s creative future in Austin Business Journal. Her accolades include features in WWD, a cover story for Austin Woman Magazine, being named one of 12 Women Shaping the Future of Austin by Austin Monthly, and appearing in a documentary on building creative teams alongside leaders from Pixar and Google.

Currently pursuing her doctorate at the University of Texas at Austin, Nina continues to champion equitable education and workforce development. She is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of fashion innovators and creating meaningful opportunities for Austin’s creative community.